Indulge in the delightful taste of summer all year round with homemade Bing Cherry Freezer Jam. This simple yet delicious recipe captures the essence of ripe, juicy Bing cherries, transforming them into a sweet spread that can be enjoyed on toast, stirred into yogurt, or even as a topping for desserts. Read on to discover how you can easily make this jam at home and savor its flavors whenever you like.
What is Bing Cherry Freezer Jam?
Bing Cherry Freezer Jam is a type of preserve made from fresh Bing cherries. Unlike traditional jams, which are cooked for a longer period and canned for shelf storage, freezer jams are quickly cooked and then stored in the freezer, preserving the fresh taste of the fruit. This method requires less cooking time, helping to retain the cherries' vibrant color and natural flavor. The addition of instant pectin and raw honey not only enhances the sweetness but also ensures the perfect consistency for spreading.
Ingredients List for Bing Cherry Freezer Jam
- 3½ cups Bing cherries, pitted and halved (measure after cutting)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoon instant pectin
- 2 tablespoon raw honey
Detailed Ingredients Breakdown
- Bing Cherries: Ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor. Pitting and halving the cherries before measuring ensures accuracy in the recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: Helps to sweeten the jam and acts as a preservative.
- Lemon Juice: Adds acidity which balances the sweetness and helps in setting the pectin.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
- Instant Pectin: Essential for thickening the jam quickly without the need for prolonged cooking.
- Raw Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Fruit Variations: While Bing cherries are recommended, you can substitute with other cherry varieties or even mix in some berries for a unique flavor.
- Sugar Alternatives: Replace granulated sugar with cane sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for a lower-calorie option.
- Honey Alternatives: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of raw honey.
- Pectin Options: If instant pectin is not available, regular pectin can be used, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
How to Cook Bing Cherry Freezer Jam: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Cherries: Place the pitted and halved Bing cherries in a food processor. Pulse a couple of times until you achieve a spreadable consistency with some chunks remaining.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the processed cherries to a large pot, preferably a shallow stockpot for even cooking. Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Continue to cook until the mixture darkens and thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Incorporate Pectin and Honey: Remove the pot from heat and immediately whisk in the instant pectin and raw honey until well combined.
- Cool the Jam: Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Store the Jam: Carefully transfer the cooled jam into jars or other freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top of the containers to allow for expansion when freezing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inaccurate Measurements: Ensure you measure the cherries after pitting and halving to maintain the correct consistency.
- Overcooking: Do not overcook the jam; it should cook just long enough to thicken and darken.
- Improper Sealing: Make sure the jars or containers are sealed properly to avoid freezer burn.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Letting the jam cool before sealing helps to avoid condensation inside the container, which can lead to ice crystals forming.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Bing Cherry Freezer Jam
- On Toast: Spread generously on fresh bread or toast for a simple yet satisfying breakfast.
- With Yogurt: Stir a spoonful into plain or vanilla yogurt for a fruity twist.
- As a Dessert Topping: Use it as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.
- In Baking: Incorporate the jam into your favorite baking recipes, like thumbprint cookies or pastries.
Presentation Ideas for Bing Cherry Freezer Jam
- Gift Jars: Decorate jars with ribbons and labels for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Breakfast Table: Serve in small bowls alongside a breakfast spread for a colorful addition.
- Picnic Essentials: Pack the jam in a picnic basket with bread and cheese for a delightful outdoor treat.
Bing Cherry Freezer Jam Recipe Tips
- Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, chill the jam in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Sterilize Containers: Ensure jars or containers are sterilized before use to prolong shelf life.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe to make a larger batch if you have an abundance of cherries.
- Label and Date: Always label your containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does Bing Cherry Freezer Jam last?
When stored in the refrigerator, the jam will last for up to 3 weeks. In the freezer, it can be stored for up to 6 months.
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
Do I need to sterilize the jars for freezer jam?
While sterilizing is not strictly necessary since the jam will be stored in the freezer, it is recommended for longer shelf life and to ensure the containers are clean.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can finely chop the cherries by hand or use a blender, but be careful not to over-process as you want some chunks to remain.
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar and honey to your taste. However, altering the sugar content might affect the jam’s texture and shelf life.
Conclusion
Making Bing Cherry Freezer Jam is a delightful way to preserve the luscious flavor of fresh cherries. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you have a delicious spread ready to enhance your breakfasts, snacks, and desserts. Experiment with different variations and serving ideas to make the most out of this versatile jam. Enjoy the sweet, fruity taste of summer anytime with your homemade Bing Cherry Freezer Jam!
PrintBing Cherry Freezer Jam Recipe
Make the best Bing Cherry Freezer Jam with fresh cherries, sugar, honey, and pectin. Enjoy this easy, no-cook recipe perfect for summer spreads.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-cook recipe)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Freezer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3½ cups Bing cherries, pitted and halved (measure after cutting)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tbsp instant pectin
- 2 tbsp raw honey
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well.
- Add instant pectin and stir thoroughly.
- Add raw honey and mix until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to freezer-safe containers, leaving ½-inch headspace.
- Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Seal containers and freeze for up to 1 year.
Notes
- Ensure cherries are measured after pitting and halving for accurate proportions.
- Adjust sugar and honey to taste.
- Thaw in refrigerator before use.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 9g
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