Cherry Jam Recipe (3-Ingredient Summer Preserve)

Nothing captures the flavor of summer quite like homemade cherry jam. Made with just three simple ingredients—ripe cherries, sugar, and lemon—this classic preserve is bursting with natural sweetness and vibrant color. Whether spread on toast or swirled into yogurt, cherry jam brings a spoonful of sunshine to your day.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Only 3 Ingredients: Just cherries, sugar, and lemon—no pectin, no fuss!
• Naturally Sweet and Tangy: Balanced flavors with a pop of citrus brightness.
• Perfect for Gifting: A beautiful homemade treat in a jar.
• Preservative-Free: You control every ingredient.
• Versatile Use: Spread it, bake with it, or spoon it over pancakes.

What Is Cherry Jam?

Cherry jam is a traditional fruit preserve made by slow-cooking fresh cherries with sugar and lemon. Originating in rural European kitchens, this sweet spread has become a pantry staple worldwide. The lemon not only balances the sweetness but also helps the jam set naturally, eliminating the need for artificial thickeners.

Cooking Tips

• Weigh After Pitting: Be sure to weigh your cherries after removing the pits to ensure accuracy.
• Macrate First: Letting the fruit marinate with sugar enhances flavor and helps break down the cherries before cooking.
• Low and Slow: Simmer on low heat and stir often to prevent sticking and caramelization.
• Sterilize Your Jars: Always pour hot jam into sterilized jars to preserve safely.
• Vacuum Seal: Invert jars while hot to create a proper vacuum seal—essential for shelf-stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Cherries?

Yes! Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before weighing.

How Do I Know the Jam Is Ready?

The jam should coat the back of a spoon and wrinkle slightly when a drop is pushed across a chilled plate with your finger.

Do I Have to Blend the Jam?

No, it’s optional. Blend for a smoother texture or leave chunky for a rustic feel.

Can I Reduce the Sugar?

You can slightly reduce it, but sugar helps preserve the jam—cutting too much may shorten shelf life.

Do I Need to Add Pectin?

No pectin is needed in this recipe. The natural fruit sugars and lemon juice are enough to help the jam set.

How to Store

Once sealed and cooled, store your cherry jam in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. After opening, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.

How to Freeze

Cherry jam can also be frozen. Let it cool completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving ½ inch of headspace. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

How to Make Homemade Cherry Jam

In a large bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and let sit for 2 hours.

Transfer the mixture to a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over low heat for about 1 hour, stirring frequently until thickened.

Remove the lemon peels. Use an immersion blender to blend the jam to your desired texture—smooth or slightly chunky.

Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Seal tightly and immediately turn upside down to create a vacuum seal.

Let the jars cool completely. Once sealed, store in a pantry or cool, dry place.