Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam Recipe

There is something truly magical about making your own preserves, and this Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam Recipe is a shining example of that. Imagine bursting, juicy cherries kissed with the sweet, nutty warmth of amaretto liqueur, all transformed into a luscious jam with just the right balance of tartness and sweetness. Whether spread on toast, swirled into yogurt, or drizzled over desserts, this jam brings a delightful homemade charm that will brighten any breakfast or snack. It’s easy to make, deeply flavorful, and a treat worth savoring.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is key to creating the perfect jam. Each one plays a crucial role: the cherries give vibrant color and natural sweetness, the lemon juice adds brightness and helps with preservation, and the amaretto liqueur brings a unique almond-infused twist that elevates the whole jam to something truly special.

• 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted: The star of the jam, providing sweet and slightly tart fruitiness.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and helping the jam set properly.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and aids natural preservation.
• 2 tbsp amaretto liqueur: Infuses the jam with a warm, nutty flavor that makes it unforgettable.
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional): For those who love a deeper almond note, this boost intensifies the amaretto’s charm.
• 1 tbsp pectin (optional): A natural thickening agent to ensure your jam has the perfect spreadable texture.

How to Make Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Start by rinsing and pitting your cherries if they are fresh, making sure to remove any stems or blemishes. You can decide on your preferred texture here—leave them whole for a chunkier jam or chop coarsely if you like it smoother. If you’re using frozen cherries, simply thaw them in advance to bring out their natural juices.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit

Place the cherries, sugar, and fresh lemon juice into a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir everything gently to combine and let this mixture rest for about 15 minutes. This step is vital as it allows the sugar to begin dissolving and the fruit to release its juices, setting the stage for a flavorful jam.

Step 3: Simmer and Mash

Turn your heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring carefully to avoid sticking. As the cherries soften, grab a potato masher or the back of a spoon and start mashing them to your preferred consistency. Let this simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, during which the jam will begin thickening beautifully.

Step 4: Add Amaretto and Almond Extract

Once the jam has thickened, it’s time to stir in the amaretto liqueur and almond extract if you’re using it. Let the mixture continue to simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes. This is when the rich flavor of amaretto really melds with the cherries, creating an irresistible aroma and taste.

Step 5: Optional – Add Pectin

If you like your jam a bit thicker, now would be the moment to introduce pectin. Stir the pectin in thoroughly and boil the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This will help your jam set firmly, perfect for spreading or spooning.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

To make sure your jam is ready, use the classic cold plate test. Spoon a small amount of jam onto a cold dish and wait a minute. Give it a gentle push with your finger—if it wrinkles and holds its shape, congratulations, your jam is perfectly set!

Step 7: Jar the Jam

Carefully remove your jam from the heat and ladle it into sterilized jars while hot. Seal the jars tightly and leave them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place or refrigerate. Enjoy the fruits of your labor anytime.

How to Serve Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted almond slivers on top of your jam-topped dishes adds a delightful crunch and echoes the almond flavor from the amaretto. Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream can also make for elegant finishing touches that enhance the presentation.

Side Dishes

This jam pairs wonderfully with breakfast staples like warm buttered toast, fluffy pancakes, or creamy yogurt. It’s a standout addition to cheese boards, especially alongside mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese, where the sweet-tart notes really pop.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your jam beyond the usual by swirling it into vanilla ice cream or using it as a filling for thumbprint cookies and thumb-stopping tarts. You can even glaze roasted meats or drizzle it over a salad with nuts and greens for a gourmet twist that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam Recipe in airtight jars in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for up to three weeks, making it easy to enjoy your homemade creation even after the initial batch is gone.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing your jam is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some headspace as jams tend to expand when frozen. When thawed, your jam will retain its vibrant flavor and texture, ready to brighten meals for months to come.

Reheating

When you want to enjoy your jam warm—perhaps spooned over pancakes or stirred into oatmeal—a gentle reheat on the stove or in the microwave is perfect. Warm it slowly and stir occasionally to preserve that rich, velvety texture without compromising the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully and are often more convenient. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking so they release their juices properly during the jam-making process.

What is the purpose of the lemon juice?

Lemon juice balances the sweetness of the sugar and cherries and acts as a natural preservative. It also helps the jam set by interacting with the pectin, if you choose to use it.

Do I have to use pectin in this jam?

Not necessarily. Pectin helps with thickening and setting but is optional. If you prefer a looser, more spreadable jam, you can skip the pectin and still enjoy delicious results.

Can I substitute the amaretto liqueur?

You can substitute amaretto with almond extract alone or another nut-flavored liqueur, but the distinct warmth and sweetness of amaretto are hard to beat and truly define this jam’s character.

How long will the jam last once opened?

After opening, store your jam in the refrigerator and enjoy it within three weeks. This helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage, so you can savor each spoonful safely.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam Recipe is such a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and results in a versatile, delicious jam you’ll want to share with everyone you know. Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast, a thoughtful gift, or a touch of homemade luxury anytime, this jam is a shining star. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly discover why it’s one of my favorite recipes to make and enjoy year-round.

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