Description

This Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam is a luxurious spread combining the tartness of ripe cherries with the warm almond notes of amaretto liqueur. Perfect for elevating breakfasts, enhancing desserts, or gifting, this jam offers a gourmet flavor with a rustic texture. The easy-to-follow recipe uses simple, quality ingredients to create a complex flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients

Scale

Jam Ingredients

4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved (about 2 pounds whole cherries)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of cherries)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
¼ cup amaretto liqueur (e.g., Disaronno)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin (optional, for thicker jam)

Instructions

Prepare the Cherries: Wash cherries thoroughly, remove stems, pit, and halve them. You can chop more finely or pulse in a food processor for smoother texture, but halving maintains a rustic consistency.
Cook the Cherry Mixture: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat cherries with sugar. Let sit for 15 minutes to macerate and release juices. Place over medium heat, stir frequently until sugar dissolves and mixture boils. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until cherries soften and liquid thickens, skimming foam if desired.
Add the Amaretto and Vanilla: Remove pot from heat and stir in amaretto liqueur and optional vanilla extract. If using pectin, add it now and return mixture to a boil for 1-2 minutes to activate the pectin without overcooking.
Jar and Seal the Jam: Sterilize canning jars and keep warm. Using a ladle and funnel, fill jars leaving ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, place lids and screw bands fingertip-tight. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude). Let jars cool undisturbed 12-24 hours and check seals.
Serving and Storage: Store unopened jars in a cool dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate opened jars and use within 3-4 weeks. Jam can also be frozen for up to 6 months in airtight containers.

Notes

Use ripe, juicy cherries for best flavor and natural pectin content.
Foam during cooking is harmless; skim for clearer jam.
Adjust sugar depending on cherry sweetness or use substitutes like honey with caution.
For seedless jam, strain through cheesecloth after cooking.
For a no-alcohol version, replace amaretto with almond extract and cherry juice.
Variations: add spices (cinnamon, cardamom), citrus zest, or cocoa powder for different flavor profiles.
Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
If jam is too runny, re-cook with added pectin or enjoy as a syrup.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Jam/Preserves
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cherry jam, Amaretto jam, Homemade jam, Cherry preserves, Fruit spread, Gourmet jam