Easy Small Batch Cherry Vanilla Jam
A quick and easy homemade cherry vanilla jam recipe that can be made in just 30 minutes using simple ingredients and perfect for small batches.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 1 small jar (approximately 1 cup) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (about 150 grams) fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60 ml) water
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or a star anise
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chia seeds
Instructions
- Pit and halve about 1 cup (150 grams) of fresh cherries. If using frozen, thaw and drain any extra liquid.
- In a small saucepan, add the cherries, ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar, ¼ cup (60 ml) water, and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently to mix.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes until cherries soften and break down.
- Test the jam consistency by spooning a bit onto a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready. If too runny, simmer a few more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
- Let the jam cool slightly before transferring to a clean jar. The jam will thicken further as it cools.
- Store in the refrigerator and use within 2 weeks.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for best setting. Stir gently to avoid burning. Add vanilla extract after cooking to preserve aroma. Optional chia seeds can be added after cooking to thicken naturally. Frozen cherries can be used if thawed and drained. Store jam in refrigerator up to 2 weeks. For smoother jam, press through a fine-mesh strainer or mash lightly with a fork.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 14
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: cherry jam, vanilla jam, small batch jam, homemade jam, quick jam recipe, easy jam, fruit spread