Cherry-Apple Jam
A vibrant cherry-apple jam combining tart cherries and sweet apples, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting to loved ones during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop frozen cherries, reserving juices (about 3 cups of chopped fruit).
- In an 8 to 10-quart kettle or Dutch oven, combine cherries, reserved juice, apple, and lemon juice.
- Add pectin; mix well.
- Bring mixture to a full rolling boil; stir in sugar and continue to boil, stirring often.
- Boil hard, uncovered, for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat; quickly skim off foam with a metal spoon.
- Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and process if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the cherries before chopping them. If tartness is a concern, you can replace some sugar with honey or agave syrup. Make sure to use fresh lemons for the juice, as it enhances the flavor significantly. If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar by one cup, but be aware this may affect setting.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry-Apple Jam pairs beautifully with toast, bagels, or pancakes. It also makes a delightful filling for pastries and can be used as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. For a unique twist, try spreading it on a slice of Mom'S Oatmeal Bread for a hearty breakfast or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator, where it should last for about three weeks. If you have leftovers, ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent spoilage. For long-term storage, consider water-bath canning to extend shelf life.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Apple Jam contains roughly 150 calories, with 2g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used instead of frozen. Just ensure they are pitted and chopped into similar sizes. Using fresh fruit may result in a slightly different texture, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How do I know if my jam has set properly?
To test if your jam has set, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it holds its shape and the line remains, it's set. If not, boil for another minute and test again.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the sugar by up to one cup for a less sweet jam. However, be aware that sugar is essential for proper gelling, so you may need to adjust the pectin ratio if you make significant changes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).