Cherry Vanilla Jam

Sweet, tangy, and delightfully fragrant, Cherry Vanilla Jam is a treat for the senses. This delicious jam combines the rich flavor of dark cherries with the warm notes of vanilla, making it an ideal addition to breakfast spreads or dessert toppings. Perfect for canning or freezing, this versatile jam is suitable for various occasions, whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast at home or gifting it to friends and family. The unique infusion of vanilla elevates the classic cherry jam, ensuring it stands out in any pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious jam ready in no time.
• Versatile: Use this jam on toast, in desserts, or as a topping for yogurt and ice cream.
• Great for Gifting: Beautifully jarred Cherry Vanilla Jam makes a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Long Shelf Life: Canning allows you to enjoy this jam throughout the year.
• Flavorful Pairing: The combination of sweet cherries and vanilla creates a delightful taste experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Cherry Vanilla Jam, gather the necessary tools and prepare your kitchen. Being organized will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars
• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: These are essential for storing your jam safely and effectively.
• Large pot: A spacious pot allows even cooking and prevents overflow during boiling.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

Sweet, vanilla infused dark cherries cooked into the perfect gooey jam that can be canned or frozen for long term storage.

For the Cherry Vanilla Jam

• 5 Cups Sweet, dark cherries (about 2.5 lbs)
• 2 1/2 cups white sugar
• 3 Tbs lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 3 tsp extract)
• 1 packet low-sugar pectin (49 g, or a shallow 1/3 cup)

How to Make Cherry Vanilla Jam

Step 1: Prepare Your Cherries

Start by washing your sweet dark cherries. Remove stems and pits. You can use a cherry pitter to make this task easier. Once prepped, chop them if desired for a chunkier texture.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the prepared cherries with white sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla bean seeds. If you’re using vanilla extract instead of beans, add it at this stage. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Heat your pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture starts to boil. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly but maintain a gentle boil. Add low-sugar pectin, mixing continuously for about 5 minutes until fully dissolved.

Step 4: Check Consistency

To test if your Cherry Vanilla Jam is ready, drop a spoonful onto a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute before dragging your finger through it; if it holds its shape without running back together, it’s ready for canning!

Step 5: Fill Jars

Remove from heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into prepared canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace at the top. Wipe any spills from jar rims before sealing with lids.

Step 6: Process Jars (if canning)

If you plan on canning your Cherry Vanilla Jam, process jars in boiling water for about 10 minutes to ensure they seal properly and are shelf-stable.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cherry Vanilla Jam on toast or as an ingredient in other recipes!

How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Jam

Cherry Vanilla Jam is a versatile treat that can enhance many dishes. Whether you’re spreading it on breakfast items or using it as a topping, this jam delivers a delightful flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions for your homemade Cherry Vanilla Jam.

On Toast

• Breakfast Delight: Spread a generous layer of Cherry Vanilla Jam on warm toast for a sweet start to your day.

With Cheese

• Savory Pairing: Serve the jam alongside a cheese platter, especially with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delicious contrast.

In Yogurt

• Healthy Snack: Mix a spoonful of Cherry Vanilla Jam into your yogurt for added sweetness and flavor.

As a Glaze

• Meat Marinade: Use the jam as a glaze for roasted meats such as chicken or pork, adding a rich sweetness to your dish.

In Desserts

• Sweet Addition: Drizzle Cherry Vanilla Jam over ice cream or cheesecake for an indulgent dessert topping.

With Pancakes or Waffles

• Breakfast Treat: Top pancakes or waffles with Cherry Vanilla Jam instead of syrup for a fruity twist.

How to Perfect Cherry Vanilla Jam

Making the perfect Cherry Vanilla Jam requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your jam turns out just right.

• Choose Ripe Cherries: Select sweet, ripe cherries for the best flavor and sweetness in your jam.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice and high-quality vanilla beans to elevate the taste of your jam.
• Follow Pectin Instructions Carefully: Each brand of low-sugar pectin may have specific instructions. Adhere closely to ensure proper setting.
• Sterilize Jars Properly: If canning, make sure jars are sterilized correctly to avoid spoilage and maintain safety.
• Taste Before Canning: Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if necessary before you can or freeze the jam.
• Store in Cool Place: Once made, store the Cherry Vanilla Jam in a cool location to preserve its freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Vanilla Jam

Cherry Vanilla Jam pairs beautifully with various side dishes, enhancing both savory and sweet flavors. Here are some great options you can enjoy alongside your jam.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers varied textures and flavors that complement the sweetness of the jam.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots or beets bring out the fruity notes in the jam.
3. Grilled Chicken Salad: Toss grilled chicken with mixed greens and drizzle with vinaigrette and Cherry Vanilla Jam for extra flavor.
4. French Toast Casserole: This rich breakfast dish gets an upgrade with a layer of jam baked right in.
5. Savory Biscuits: Flaky biscuits served warm create an excellent backdrop for spreading this delicious jam.
6. Pork Tenderloin: The savory meat pairs well with the sweetness from the cherry vanilla blend, offering an amazing contrast in flavors.
7. Oatmeal Bowl: Stirring in some jam into oatmeal adds a sweet touch that elevates your morning meal.
8. Quinoa Salad: For a nutritious option, try mixing quinoa with nuts, fruits, and dollops of Cherry Vanilla Jam for added zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Vanilla Jam can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Boldly underestimating pectin: Using the wrong amount of pectin can lead to a runny jam. Always measure your low-sugar pectin carefully according to the package instructions.
• Ignoring fruit quality: Using overripe or damaged cherries affects flavor and texture. Choose fresh, sweet, dark cherries for the best results.
• Skipping sterilization: Not sterilizing jars can lead to spoilage. Always ensure your jars are properly sterilized before filling them with jam.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking jam too quickly can prevent proper thickening. Allow enough time for the cherries to break down and the mixture to thicken.
• Neglecting taste testing: Failing to taste your jam before jarring may result in an unbalanced flavor. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more sugar or lemon juice as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Vanilla Jam in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks after opening.

Freezing Cherry Vanilla Jam

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 1 year without losing quality.

Reheating Cherry Vanilla Jam

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place jam in an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring between each interval until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Vanilla Jam.

What is the best way to pit cherries for Cherry Vanilla Jam?

To pit cherries easily, use a cherry pitter or cut them in half and remove the pit with your fingers. This ensures your jam has smooth consistency.

Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Vanilla Jam?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking. This will help maintain the right consistency.

How do I know if my jam is set properly?

You can check by placing a spoonful of hot jam on a cold plate. If it firms up after cooling slightly, it’s ready; otherwise, cook it longer.

Can I modify this Cherry Vanilla Jam recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust sweetness levels or add spices like cinnamon for a unique twist on flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Vanilla Jam is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes a perfect spread for toast or filling for pastries. Feel free to customize it with spices or other fruits to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy making this delightful treat!