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Cherry Jam Recipe Easy Without Pectin

Grandma’s Secret: Easy Cherry Jam Recipe Without Pectin

I still remember the sweet, comforting aroma of cherry jam bubbling on my grandmother’s stovetop. Summers meant baskets full of fresh cherries, sticky hands from pitting them, and jars of deep red jam lined up on the counter. Grandma never used store-bought pectin—she had her own way of making jam naturally thick and irresistibly delicious. Today, I’m sharing her secret cherry jam recipe (easy, without pectin) so you can enjoy the same homemade goodness in your own kitchen.

In this blog post, I’ll share the best homemade recipe for these easy banana pudding cups, complete with exact ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions. Plus, I’ll recommend some must-have Amazon products to make assembling these treats even easier!

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

Grandma’s Secret: Easy Cherry Jam Recipe Without Pectin

Why Make Cherry Jam Without Pectin?

Store-bought pectin can be convenient, but making jam without it has its own benefits:

  • More natural: Many fruits, including cherries, contain natural pectin that thickens as the jam cooks.

  • Richer flavor: No need for added ingredients—just fruit, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice.

  • Better texture: Some store-bought pectins create a firmer, jelly-like consistency. Homemade jam has a luscious, spreadable texture.

    • Plus, if you’ve ever wondered what to do with fresh cherries, this is one of the best ways to preserve their flavor!

    Ingredients for a Small Batch of Cherry Jam

    This recipe makes about 1.5 cups of jam—perfect for a small batch that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

  • 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but enhances the flavor)

    • How to Make Grandma’s Easy No-Pectin Cherry Jam

    Step 1: Prep the Cherries

    Wash the cherries thoroughly, then remove the pits. If you don’t have a cherry pitter, you can use a knife or even a straw to push out the pits.

    Recommended Product: OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter

    Struggling with pitting cherries? The OXO Good Grips Cherry and Olive Pitter makes the process fast and mess-free. It has a splatter shield and a comfortable grip, making it perfect for prepping large batches.

    Check it out on Amazon and make cherry season easier!

    Step 2: Cooking the Jam

    1. Place the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat.

    2. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the cherries start to release their juices.

    3. Use a potato masher or spoon to break down the cherries as they cook.

    4. Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam will thicken as the water evaporates and the natural pectin in the cherries activates.

    Pro Tip: To check if your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles slightly when you push it with your finger, it’s done!

    Recommended Product: Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Saucepan

    A good saucepan makes all the difference when making homemade jam preserves. The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Saucepan heats evenly and prevents sticking.

    Get yours here for perfect jam every time!

    Step 3: Storing & Preserving

    Once the jam reaches the right consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring to a clean, sterilized jar.

  • Refrigerator storage: Lasts up to 3 weeks in an airtight container.

  • Freezer storage: Keeps for up to a year in a freezer-safe jar.

    • If you want to make a larger batch and store it for months, consider canning it properly.

    Recommended Product: Ball Mason Jars with Airtight Lids

    These Ball Mason Jars are perfect for storing small-batch jams. Their airtight lids keep your jam fresh longer!Buy a set here and keep your jam delicious for weeks.

    Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Cherry Jam

    Once you’ve made this no pectin cherry jam, the fun part begins! Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:

  • As a breakfast spread on toast, croissants, or English muffins.

  • Stirred into yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity twist.

  • Drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.

  • Paired with cheese (brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar) for a sweet and savory combo.

  • Used as a dessert filling for tarts, cakes, or thumbprint cookies.

    • Jelly vs. Jam: What’s the Difference?

    People often confuse jam preserves with jelly. The key difference? Jam contains chunks of fruit, while jelly is made from fruit juice and has a smooth texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can strain the cherries before cooking.

    Final Thoughts & Call to Action

    There you have it—Grandma’s tried-and-true cherry jam recipe (easy, without pectin)! This small batch method is simple, delicious, and perfect for preserving the sweet flavors of summer.

    I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making homemade cherry jam? What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Leave a comment below and share your experience!

    And if you’re ready to make jam like a pro, check out my Amazon recommendations for the best kitchen tools to make the process even easier!

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