Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam: A Sweet and Boozy Spread You’ll Love

Homemade jam captures the very essence of summer fruit, and when cherries are in season, there’s no better way to preserve their juicy sweetness than with this Cherry Amaretto Jam. This rich and flavorful spread is elevated with a splash of amaretto, a sweet almond-flavored liqueur that perfectly complements the natural tartness of cherries. The result? A jam that’s luxurious, complex, and completely irresistible.

This isn’t your average cherry jam. With every spoonful, you get a balance of sweet and tangy fruit paired with the nutty, slightly boozy note of amaretto. Whether you spread it on warm toast, swirl it into yogurt, or pair it with cheese and crackers, this jam adds a touch of elegance to anything it touches.

Making jam at home may sound intimidating, but this recipe keeps things simple and straightforward. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll be rewarded with jars of ruby-red goodness that are perfect for gifting—or keeping all to yourself. Once you try homemade cherry amaretto jam, you may never go back to store-bought again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Profile – The combination of cherries and amaretto gives this jam a rich, sophisticated taste.
2. Simple Ingredients – Only a handful of pantry staples and seasonal fruit required.
3. Perfect for Preserving – Great way to make the most of fresh cherry season.
4. Versatile Uses – Works as a spread, topping, or even a filling for desserts.
5. Impressive Homemade Gift – Beautiful in jars and perfect for holiday or hostess gifts.

Ingredients

• Sweet cherries
• Amaretto
• Granulated sugar
• Classic pectin (such as Ball RealFruit)
• Lime juice

Variations

• Alcohol-Free Version – Omit the amaretto or replace it with almond extract (start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste).
• Add Vanilla – A splash of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth.
• Use Sour Cherries – For a tarter jam, try sour cherries instead of sweet.
• Lower Sugar Option – Use a low- or no-sugar pectin and reduce the sugar accordingly.
• Spiced Twist – Add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of clove during cooking for a spiced cherry flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Pit and halve the cherries, measuring 3 pounds before pitting. Crush them slightly with a potato masher or pulse briefly in a food processor for a smoother texture.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, add the crushed cherries, amaretto, lime juice, and pectin. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Add Sugar

Stir in the sugar all at once. Continue stirring and bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil hard for 1 minute.

Step 5: Test and Skim

Remove from heat. Skim off any foam from the top. Test jam for set using a cold plate or spoon method.

Step 6: Jar the Jam

Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and apply lids and bands.

Step 7: Process the Jars

Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Adjust time for altitude if necessary. Let jars cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor.
• Chill a small plate in the freezer ahead of time for the “set test.”
• Don’t overcook once sugar is added—1 minute of hard boiling is key.
• Always use proper canning technique for food safety.
• Label your jars with the date and contents for easy storage.

How to Serve

• Spread on toast, scones, or biscuits.
• Use as a topping for cheesecake, pancakes, or waffles.
• Stir into yogurt or oatmeal.
• Add to thumbprint cookies or sandwich between cake layers.
• Pair with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a charcuterie board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once opened, keep jam refrigerated and use within 3 weeks.

Freezing

If not processed in a water bath, store jam in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 6 months.

Reheating

Jam does not require reheating to serve. If using as a topping, it can be gently warmed in the microwave or stovetop.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before use. Be sure to measure after thawing.

2. How long does cherry jam last?

Properly processed and sealed jars can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.

3. What’s the purpose of lime juice?

It adds acidity, balances sweetness, and helps the jam set properly.

4. Can I use a different liqueur?

Yes—Kirsch or Chambord are great alternatives for different flavor profiles.

5. Do I need to use pectin?

Pectin helps ensure a good set; without it, you’ll need to cook longer and monitor carefully.

6. Can I double the recipe?

It’s not recommended, as larger batches may not set well. Make two smaller batches instead.

7. What if my jam doesn’t set?

Let it sit for 24–48 hours. If it’s still too loose, you can reprocess with more pectin.

8. How can I reduce the sugar?

Use low- or no-sugar pectin and adjust the recipe accordingly.

9. Is the alcohol still present?

Most of the alcohol cooks off, leaving only the flavor behind.

10. Do I need to process the jars?

If storing at room temperature, yes. If keeping in the fridge or freezer, processing is optional.

Conclusion

Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam is a deliciously sophisticated way to preserve summer’s best fruit. With its deep cherry flavor and subtle almond notes from the amaretto, this jam is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast or incorporating it into desserts, it brings elegance and warmth to every bite. Simple to make, shelf-stable, and full of flavor—this is one jam recipe worth adding to your collection.

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