The aroma of cherry vanilla jam wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with its sweet and tart symphony. Imagine spreading this luscious concoction on warm toast, each bite bursting with flavor that dances on your palate. sweet breakfast treat.
Every jar of cherry vanilla jam tells a story, one that takes me back to sunny afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The laughter, the sticky fingers, and the anticipation of tasting that sweet goodness made those moments unforgettable. perfect cookie pairing Perfect for brunches or simply indulging during a quiet evening, this jam promises to elevate any dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful cherry vanilla jam is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- The explosion of flavors makes it a perfect companion for breakfast or dessert
- Its vibrant color adds visual appeal to any table setting
- Versatile enough to be used in various recipes or enjoyed straight from the jar
There was that time at a family gathering when my cousin tasted it and exclaimed it was “like summer in a jar!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Opt for ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor; they should be firm and juicy.
- Granulated Sugar: White sugar not only sweetens but helps in preserving the jam’s texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for a richer, more aromatic flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity that balances sweetness beautifully. savory and sweet balance.
- Pectin (optional): If you desire a thicker consistency, pectin will help achieve that perfect spreadable texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Cherries: Begin by washing and pitting about four cups of fresh cherries. Slice them in half to release their juices while cooking and enhance the flavors.
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix pitted cherries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir well until the sugar begins to dissolve into the juicy cherry goodness.
Cook the Mixture: Place your pot over medium heat and stir continuously until it reaches a gentle simmer. Watch closely as it bubbles and thickens; this usually takes about 10 minutes.
Add Vanilla Extract: Once your mixture is bubbling away, stir in pure vanilla extract for an aromatic boost. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it achieves your desired consistency.
Jar It Up!: Carefully pour your hot cherry vanilla jam into sterilized jars. Seal tightly while still warm and let them cool completely before storing them away—if you can resist eating it all right away! For more inspiration, check out this honey balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe.
This cherry vanilla jam captures summer’s essence in each jar, ready to brighten up breakfast or dessert occasions! a unique dessert option.
You Must Know
- Cherry vanilla jam is a delightful treat that elevates any breakfast spread
- It combines sweet cherries with a hint of vanilla, creating a luxurious, aromatic experience
- This jam pairs beautifully with toast, yogurt, or even as a topping for desserts
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your ingredients: pit the cherries and measure your sugar before cooking. Cook the cherries and sugar together until bubbly, then add vanilla extract for an aromatic touch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for other fruits like strawberries or raspberries. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to create unique flavor profiles.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cherry vanilla jam in sterilized jars in the fridge for up to three weeks. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove over low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This cherry vanilla jam recipe is all about balance; too much sugar can overpower the fruit’s natural sweetness
- Remember to taste as you go
- Use ripe cherries for the best flavor and texture—your taste buds will thank you!
There’s nothing quite like when friends dive into my homemade cherry vanilla jam and their faces light up with joy—it feels like magic every time!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cherries work well; just thaw them first before cooking.
How long does cherry vanilla jam last?
Properly stored, it lasts up to three weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I add pectin to thicken my jam?
Pectin can be added if you prefer a thicker consistency; follow package instructions.

Cherry Vanilla Jam
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings (16 tablespoons) 1x
Description
Cherry Vanilla Jam is a luscious blend of sweet cherries and aromatic vanilla, capturing the essence of summer in every jar. This easy-to-make jam is perfect for elevating your breakfast or dessert, spreading joy with each bite. Enjoy it on toast, yogurt, or as a topping for your favorite treats. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade jam that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon pectin (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Wash and pit the cherries, then slice them in half to release juices.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix the pitted cherries with sugar and lemon juice until the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Cook the Mixture: Heat over medium heat, stirring until it simmers for about 10 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in vanilla extract and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
- Jar It Up: Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, seal tightly while warm, and let cool before storing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Feel free to replace cherries with strawberries or raspberries for a different flavor. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for unique variations.