Cherry Berry Jam
A vibrant cherry berry jam combining sweet cherries, fresh strawberries, and citrus, perfect for spreading on toast or as a delightful gift for fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine prepared fruit and lemon juice in a large pan.
- Mix pectin with the fruit and place over high heat.
- Bring to a full boil, stirring constantly.
- At once, stir in sugar.
- Bring to a full, rolling boil and boil hard for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Skim the foam.
- Ladle into clean, hot jars, filling to within one-half inch of the top.
- Seal the jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe, sweet cherries and strawberries. If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar slightly, but be mindful that this may affect the setting. If you can't find fresh oranges, a teaspoon of orange extract can be a substitute. Always ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage, as seen in many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Berry Jam is delightful spread on toast or scones, and it pairs beautifully with Yummy Orange Balls. Use it as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream for a refreshing dessert. You can also incorporate it into dressings or glazes for meats, enhancing your meals with a sweet touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator and consume it within three weeks. If you have leftovers, you can reheat the jam gently on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to avoid scorching, and enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Berry Jam contains roughly 294 calories, with 6g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (94% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and potassium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. 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 frozen fruit for this jam?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries and strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them. The texture may vary slightly, 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 it; if it holds its shape and doesn't run, it's ready. Otherwise, continue boiling for another minute.
Is it possible to make this jam without pectin?
Yes, you can make jam without pectin, but it will require longer cooking time to thicken. You can add more lemon juice to help with setting, or use fruits naturally high in pectin, like apples or citrus peels, to achieve the desired consistency.
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).