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Perfect Sour Cherry Bourbon Jam

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A quick and easy small batch jam combining tart sour cherries with warm bourbon for a rich, balanced flavor perfect for breakfasts or gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (450 grams) fresh sour cherries, pitted
  • 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) bourbon whiskey
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon pectin powder

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pit fresh sour cherries (about 3 cups or 450 grams).
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries and 1/4 cup (60 ml) water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring often to dissolve sugar, about 10 minutes until syrupy.
  4. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon pectin powder evenly over the mixture while stirring briskly to avoid lumps. Cook and stir for another 3–5 minutes until jam thickens slightly.
  5. Remove pan from heat and stir in 1/4 cup (60 ml) bourbon whiskey.
  6. Test consistency by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, jam is ready. If not, cook a minute longer and test again.
  7. Ladle hot jam into sterilized small canning jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
  8. Remove jars and cool completely on a towel-lined counter. Store in a cool, dark place and enjoy within one year.

Notes

Add bourbon at the end to preserve flavor. Skim foam during cooking for clearer jam. Use fresh lemon juice for best pectin activation. Stir gently near the end to prevent burning. Frozen cherries can be used if thawed and drained. For a smoother texture, strain cherry skins and seeds.

Nutrition

Keywords: sour cherry jam, bourbon jam, small batch canning, homemade jam, cherry preserves, bourbon whiskey, easy jam recipe

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/perfect-sour-cherry-bourbon-jam-recipe-for-easy-small-batch-canning/