Cherry preserve is a delicious, sweet spread that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you spread it on toast, use it as a filling for cakes or pastries, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful, cherry preserve is a perfect way to enjoy the flavor of fresh cherries year-round.
Ingredients
To make cherry preserve, you will need the following ingredients: - 2 pounds of fresh cherries, pitted and halved - 2 cups of granulated sugar - 1/4 cup of lemon juice - 1/4 cup of water
Instructions
1. Begin by washing and pitting your cherries. You can do this by hand, or you can use a cherry pitter to make the process go more quickly. 2. Once your cherries are pitted and halved, place them into a large pot along with the sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir everything together well. 3. Set the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have broken down and the mixture has thickened. 4. Once the mixture is thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. 5. While the cherry preserve is cooling, prepare your jars for canning. Wash them in hot, soapy water and rinse them thoroughly. Place them in a pot of boiling water and let them boil for about 10 minutes to sterilize them. 6. Using a ladle and a funnel, carefully pour the cherry preserve into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. 7. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth and place the lids on top, tightening the bands until they are just finger-tight. 8. Once your jars are filled and sealed, place them into a large pot of boiling water and let them process for about 10 minutes. 9. Remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a towel. Once they are cool, check the seals to make sure they are tight. 10. Label your jars with the date and contents, and store them in a cool, dark place until you are ready to enjoy your delicious cherry preserve.
Nutrition
Cherry preserve is a sweet treat that is high in sugar and calories, but it also contains some beneficial nutrients. Cherries are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and they may have anti-inflammatory properties as well. However, because cherry preserve is high in sugar, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Making cherry preserve is a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavor of fresh cherries all year long. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic canning equipment, you can create a delicious and versatile spread that is perfect for breakfast, baking, or snacking. Give this recipe a try and see how easy it is to make your own cherry preserve at home!
