Intro:
Looking for a simple and delightful homemade treat that captures the essence of summer in a jar? Our Cherry Almond Jelly recipe is the perfect balance of sweet cherries and nutty almond flavors, creating a lovely spread to enjoy on toast, pastries, or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Let’s get started on creating this delicious and versatile jelly that will surely elevate your breakfast or snack time!
Cherry Almond Jelly
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 package powdered fruit pectin
– 5 cups sugar
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cherries by washing, pitting, and chopping them. You can use a food processor for a quicker process, but a knife works just as well.
2. In a large pot, combine the chopped cherries, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the powdered fruit pectin until fully dissolved. Let the mixture return to a rolling boil and then add the sugar, stirring continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved.
4. Continue to cook the jelly over high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Use a candy thermometer to gauge the temperature. The mixture should reach 220°F (104°C) for the jelly to set properly.
5. Once the jelly reaches the desired temperature, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the almond extract, combining the flavors well.
6. Skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface of the jelly.
7. Ladle the hot cherry almond jelly into clean, sterilized jars, leaving a ¼-inch headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean and seal the jars with lids.
8. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation. Make sure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch.
9. Carefully remove the jars from the water bath using jar lifters and place them on a towel-lined surface to cool completely. You may hear the lids popping, indicating a successful seal.
10. Once the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t pop back, the seal is secure. Store the cherry almond jelly in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Enjoy your homemade Cherry Almond Jelly on toast, scones, or as a delicious topping for yogurt or ice cream. Share the sweetness by gifting jars to loved ones or neighbors – they’ll appreciate the homemade touch! This versatile jelly also makes a lovely addition to a brunch table or as a gourmet ingredient in your baking adventures. Experiment with different ways to enjoy this delightful jelly and savor the flavors of summer all year round!
