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Perfect Sour Cherry Preserves with Amaretto

perfect sour cherry preserves with amaretto - featured image

A small batch recipe for tart and sweet sour cherry preserves enhanced with a splash of Amaretto liqueur, perfect for gifting or enjoying at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600 grams) fresh sour cherries, pitted
  • 3 cups (600 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Amaretto liqueur
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • Optional: a few drops of almond extract

Instructions

  1. Wash and pit about 4 cups (600 grams) of sour cherries. This takes around 15 minutes.
  2. In a stockpot, add the cherries and 1/4 cup (60 ml) water. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the cherries soften and start releasing juice, about 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in 3 cups (600 grams) granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice. Mix well to dissolve most of the sugar.
  4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the mixture thickens and reaches about 220°F (104°C) on a candy thermometer, approximately 20-25 minutes. Use the spoon test if you don’t have a thermometer.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of Amaretto liqueur. Add a few drops of almond extract if desired.
  6. Using a jar funnel, carefully ladle the hot preserves into sterilized 8 oz (250 ml) jars, leaving about 1/4 inch (6 mm) headspace. Wipe rims clean with a damp cloth.
  7. Place sterilized lids on jars and screw on bands finger-tight. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
  8. Remove jars with a jar lifter and set them on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals; lids should be concave and not pop when pressed.

Notes

Use ripe but firm cherries for best texture. Keep stirring during simmering to prevent burning. Add Amaretto after removing from heat to preserve flavor. Use sterilized jars and lids to prevent spoilage. Process jars in a boiling water bath for safety. The preserves thicken as they cool. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Refrigerate after opening and use within 3 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: sour cherry preserves, amaretto jam, small batch preserves, cherry jam recipe, homemade cherry preserves, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves, canning recipe