How to Make Homemade Cherry Jam

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds sweetness with fewer calories.

pectin

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Cornstarch thickens the jam at a lower cost.

vanilla extract

💰Cheaper: vanilla essence

Vanilla essence provides similar flavor at a lower price.

cinnamon

💰Cheaper: nutmeg

Nutmeg offers a different but pleasant spice alternative.

Wash and pit the cherries, then chop them coarsely.

Combine cherries and water in a large pot over medium heat.

Cook the mixture until the cherries soften, about 10-15 minutes.

Add sugar and lemon juice, stirring until dissolved.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Stir in pectin and continue to cook for 5-10 minutes until thickened.

Add vanilla extract, mixing well.

Test the jam's consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate.

If set, remove from heat; if not, cook for a few more minutes and retest.

Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace.

Seal the jars tightly and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary