Are you ready to capture the vibrant taste of summer and preserve it for those long winter months? Then look no further! This easy sour cherry jam recipe requires no pectin, making it a surprisingly simple and rewarding homemade cooking project. Perfect for beginners, this recipe delivers a delicious and naturally thickened jam, bursting with the tart sweetness of fresh sour cherries. Get ready to enjoy the taste of sunshine all year round!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pitted sour cherries (about 2 pounds)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for a delightful twist)
Equipment:
- Large, heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Several clean, sterilized half-pint jars with lids and rings
- Jar lifter (optional, but helpful)
- Large bowl for sterilizing jars
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Gently wash the sour cherries and remove the pits. You can use a cherry pitter for speed, or do it manually with a pin. Make sure to remove all the pits thoroughly for a smooth jam.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your heavy-bottomed pot, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the cherries. The lemon juice helps to balance the tartness of the cherries and aids in setting the jam. If using, add the almond extract now.
Step 3: Cook the Jam
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to stir, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved. This step usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Test for Setting Point
The jam is ready when it reaches the setting point. You can test this by placing a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push the jam with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready! This method is reliable and eliminates the need for a special jam thermometer.
Step 5: Jar the Jam
Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace at the top. Wipe the jar rims clean, then firmly attach the lids and rings.
Step 6: Process the Jars (Optional)
For longer shelf life, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended for ensuring your delicious homemade jam stays fresh for months.
Tips for the Best Sour Cherry Jam:
- Use ripe cherries: The riper the cherries, the better the flavor of your jam.
- Stir frequently: This prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- Sterilize your jars: This is crucial for preventing spoilage and ensuring your jam stays safe. You can do this by washing them thoroughly in hot, soapy water, rinsing, and then placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes before filling.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.
Variations:
- Spiced Sour Cherry Jam: Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or a pinch of nutmeg during cooking for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Sour Cherry and Raspberry Jam: Combine sour cherries with raspberries for a delicious blend of tart and sweet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120
Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
This easy sour cherry jam recipe is a perfect addition to your pantry. Enjoy it on toast, biscuits, or use it as a delicious topping for yogurt or ice cream. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!