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–+ servings
sweet homemade cherry spread

Cherry Jam

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 12 hours
Total Time 13 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 cups

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 potato masher
  • 1 Ladle
  • 4 sterilized jars with lids

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh cherries pitted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

Instructions
 

  • Add pitted cherries to a large pot.
  • Use a potato masher to slightly crush the cherries.
  • Stir in granulated sugar and lemon juice.
  • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Continue to simmer for 45 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
  • Stir in vanilla extract if desired.
  • Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • Use a ladle to transfer the jam into sterilized jars.
  • Seal the jars with lids and let them rest for 12 hours to set.

Notes

Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent contamination and preserve the jam longer. You can test the jam’s consistency by placing a small amount on a chilled plate; it should wrinkle slightly when pushed with a finger. Adjust sugar levels to your taste, but keep in mind that sugar acts as a natural preservative.
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