Mary Berry Cherry Jam

This Mary Berry Cherry Jam recipe is a rich, fruity preserve with a deep cherry flavor and a glossy, spreadable texture. Made with just a few ingredients, it captures the essence of ripe summer cherries in a jar.

What is Mary Berry Cherry Jam?

Mary Berry’s cherry jam is a traditional, small-batch preserve made by simmering fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and lemon juice. It’s known for its vibrant color, natural cherry sweetness, and slightly tart edge. Ideal for beginners, this recipe requires no pectin and delivers jam that sets beautifully with proper simmering.

Other Mary Berry Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Cherry Clafoutis
• Mary Berry Cherry Muffins
• Mary Berry Cherry Scones

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• No pectin needed – Natural setting from the fruit and lemon.
• Easy for beginners – Simple instructions and ingredients.
• Bursting with flavor – Rich cherry taste in every spoonful.
• Versatile use – Great on toast, scones, or in bakes.
• Lasts for months – Perfect for homemade gifting.
• Customizable – Works with fresh or frozen cherries.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Cherry Jam

• 900g fresh or frozen cherries (pitted) – Ripe cherries give the jam its deep flavor.
• 750g granulated sugar – Essential for preserving and setting the jam.
• Juice of 1 lemon – Provides acidity to balance sweetness and helps in setting.
• Optional: 1 tsp almond extract – Adds depth and enhances cherry flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Large preserving pan or wide saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Jam thermometer (recommended)
• Sterilized jars with lids
• Ladle and funnel (for clean pouring)

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Cherry Jam

Step 1: Prepare the cherries

• Pit and halve the cherries. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess liquid.

Step 2: Combine ingredients in the pan

• Place cherries, sugar, and lemon juice into the pan. Stir gently over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Boil the mixture

• Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Let it boil for 10–15 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Test the setting point

• Use a jam thermometer to check for 105°C (221°F), or do a wrinkle test: place a drop on a cold plate, wait a few seconds, and push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.

Step 5: Skim and cool

• Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the surface. Let it sit for 5 minutes to prevent fruit from floating.

Step 6: Jar the jam

• Ladle the jam into warm, sterilized jars. Seal immediately with lids.

Step 7: Store

• Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Label and store in a cool, dark place.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Cherry Jam

• Warm buttered toast – A breakfast classic.
• Freshly baked scones – Perfect for cream tea.
• Greek yogurt or porridge – For a fruity boost.
• Vanilla sponge cakes – Layer it for a cherry twist.
• Cheese boards – Pairs well with brie or goat cheese.
• Swirled in ice cream – Adds a tangy-sweet finish.
• As filling in cookies – Great in thumbprint or sandwich cookies.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Cherry Jam

• Use ripe cherries – Underripe fruit can lead to a bland flavor.
• Stir often – Prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
• Sterilize jars properly – Prevents spoilage and keeps jam fresh.
• Check the setting point carefully – Avoids under- or over-cooked jam.
• Let it cool before jarring – Keeps cherries from floating.
• Add almond extract cautiously – A little goes a long way.
• Avoid overboiling – It can darken and thicken the jam too much.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Cherry Jam

• Add raspberries or strawberries – For a mixed berry jam.
• Use vanilla bean – Infuses a soft, floral sweetness.
• Add a splash of kirsch or brandy – Enhances richness.
• Try sour cherries – For a tarter, sharper jam.
• Make a sugar-reduced version – With jam sugar and less granulated sugar.
• Include orange zest – Brightens the flavor.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Cherry Jam

• Store sealed jars in a dark, cool place – Keeps them fresh for up to 12 months.
• Refrigerate after opening – Use within 3–4 weeks.
• Label each jar – Include the date for easy tracking.
• Avoid moisture during jarring – Keeps mold away.
• Use clean utensils – Each time to scoop jam.

Best Practices to Reheat or Use Mary Berry Cherry Jam

• Microwave in a heat-safe bowl for 10–15 seconds – To loosen thick jam.
• Warm over low heat – To drizzle over pancakes or waffles.
• Stir into baking batters – Gently fold into muffins or bars.
• Avoid direct high heat – Can burn the sugars.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Cherry Jam Healthier?

• Reduce sugar slightly – If cherries are very sweet.
• Use honey or maple syrup – For a natural alternative.
• Choose organic cherries – For a cleaner, richer flavor.
• Add chia seeds – For a quick-set jam without added sugar.
• Skip the almond extract – For a cleaner fruit profile.

Nutritional Value (per tablespoon)

• Calories: 45 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg

FAQs

Do I need to use pectin for Mary Berry Cherry Jam?

No, this recipe does not require added pectin. Cherries contain natural pectin, and with the help of lemon juice and proper boiling, the jam sets well on its own.

How do I know when cherry jam has reached its setting point?

Use a sugar thermometer to check for 105°C (221°F). Alternatively, place a small spoonful on a cold plate, let it sit for 30 seconds, and push it gently. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.

Can I use frozen cherries to make this jam?

Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly. Be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess liquid affecting the jam’s consistency.

How long does homemade cherry jam last?

Sealed jars kept in a cool, dark place can last up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Cherry Jam is a timeless homemade treat, bursting with ripe cherry flavor and made with love. It’s an easy and satisfying recipe that brings a jar full of sunshine to your breakfast or desserts. Try it once, and you’ll want it on hand all year round.

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