Amaretto Cherry Jam Recipe

If you adore the idea of a jam that balances sweet, tart cherries with a warm hint of almond liquor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Amaretto Cherry Jam. This homemade treat brilliantly captures the essence of summer cherries, intensified with a splash of Amaretto that elevates the flavor from simple to spectacular. Whether spread on morning toast or paired with your favorite cheese, this jam is a versatile delight you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Amaretto Cherry Jam lies in its simplicity; just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together to create a perfectly balanced jar of jam. Each one plays a critical role in building layers of flavor, adding natural sweetness, brightness, and that unmistakable almond warmth from the Amaretto.

• 3 1/2 cups pitted black cherries: Fresh cherries give the jam its vibrant color and rich, fruity base; make sure they are ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the cherries and helps the jam set with a glossy finish.
• 8 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds essential acidity to brighten the jam and act as a natural preservative.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste: Provides a warm, sweet undertone that deepens the jam’s flavor complexity.
• 4 teaspoons Amaretto almond liqueur: Infuses a delightful nutty sweetness that makes this jam truly unique.
• 1 teaspoon butter (optional): Helps reduce foaming during cooking for a smoother texture and clearer jam.

How to Make Amaretto Cherry Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Begin by rinsing your fresh black cherries thoroughly, then pit them. You can roughly chop the cherries if you prefer a smoother consistency, or leave them halved if chunky jam is your style. This step is crucial because it sets the texture tone for your jam.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a spacious saucepan, gently stir together the cherries, granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice. The sugar works to draw out the cherries’ natural juices, which are essential for the jam’s flavor and consistency. Mixing gently avoids bruising the fruit too much early on.

Step 3: Mash and Mix

Using a potato masher or fork, lightly mash the cherries. This releases even more juice and helps the sugar dissolve quicker. Be careful not to over-mash unless you want a very smooth jam; leaving some cherry texture adds character.

Step 4: Heat Things Up

Place the pan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture is juicy and glistening. This warming step primes the jam for its transformation into lusciousness.

Step 5: Simmer with Care

Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often so nothing sticks or burns at the bottom. You’ll notice foam rising to the surface; skim it off with a spoon to keep the jam clear. If foam is persistent, stir in a teaspoon of butter to help reduce it — this trick makes the cooking process easier and the result prettier.

Step 6: Add the Flavor

After about 15 to 20 minutes, once your jam has thickened beautifully, stir in the vanilla extract and the star ingredient — 4 teaspoons of Amaretto almond liqueur. This addition takes the jam to the next level, lending it that irresistible almond aroma and warmth.

Step 7: Check for Setting Point

Testing if your jam is ready is simple. Spoon a small amount onto a chilled plate and wait a minute, then run your finger through it. If your line stays clear and doesn’t fill back in, hooray — your jam has reached the perfect set. If it’s still too runny, simmer for a few more minutes and retest.

Step 8: Jar and Store

Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars immediately, seal them tightly, and allow to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate afterward, and your exquisite Amaretto Cherry Jam will be ready to enjoy whenever the craving hits.

How to Serve Amaretto Cherry Jam

Garnishes

Amaretto Cherry Jam pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top when served on desserts. These simple touches highlight the almond notes and add elegant texture that make every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

Think beyond the usual toast and try your Amaretto Cherry Jam alongside creamy cheeses like brie, mascarpone, or ricotta. It also makes a divine accompaniment to yogurt bowls, pancakes, or vanilla ice cream, adding a sophisticated burst of flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping appetizer, swirl Amaretto Cherry Jam into whipped cream cheese and use it as a dip for graham crackers or crisp apple slices. You can also spoon it over roasted meats like pork or duck to introduce an exciting fruity glaze that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, Amaretto Cherry Jam keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Store it in airtight jars or containers to maintain freshness and prevent unwanted moisture from affecting the texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this jam if you want to enjoy it beyond the fresh cherry season. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. Thawed jam might be slightly thinner but will still taste heavenly.

Reheating

If your jam has thickened too much or crystalized in the fridge, simply warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired consistency. The aroma during reheating alone is enough to make your mouth water.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries to make Amaretto Cherry Jam?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just fine, especially out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid a watery jam.

Is the Amaretto alcohol cooked off during the jam-making process?

The simmering process reduces some alcohol content, but a subtle almond liqueur flavor remains to enrich the jam with its signature warmth and complexity.

Can I substitute the Amaretto with almond extract?

You can, but almond extract is much stronger and doesn’t have the same sweetness or depth as Amaretto. If you do substitute, use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the jam.

How do I sterilize jars for storing my jam?

Boil jars and lids in water for at least 10 minutes, then let them air dry completely before filling with hot jam to ensure safe preservation.

Is the butter really necessary in the recipe?

The butter is optional but helpful—it reduces foam forming on top of the jam, making your cooking and final product smoother and more visually appealing.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Amaretto Cherry Jam is such a rewarding experience — each spoonful captures the sunshine of summer cherries elevated with the cozy charm of almond liqueur. Whether you’re a jam novice or an experienced preserve lover, this recipe promises to become a treasured staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, dive into making this luscious jam and watch it transform everyday moments into something truly delicious.

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