Ultimate Guide to Cherry Jelly Canning Recipe: Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Perfect Homemade Jelly

#### Cherry Jelly Canning RecipeIf you’re looking to preserve the delightful taste of cherries in a jar, then the cherry jelly canning recipe is the perfect……

#### Cherry Jelly Canning Recipe

If you’re looking to preserve the delightful taste of cherries in a jar, then the cherry jelly canning recipe is the perfect solution for you. This deliciously sweet and slightly tart jelly is not only a great way to enjoy cherries year-round but also an excellent addition to your breakfast table or dessert spread. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps, tips, and variations to make your cherry jelly canning experience a success.

#### Ingredients Needed for Cherry Jelly

To start with your cherry jelly canning recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 cups of fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)

- 1 cup of water

- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)

- 5 cups of granulated sugar

- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)

#### Equipment Required

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary equipment:

- Canning jars (8 oz or 12 oz)

- Lids and bands

- Large pot for boiling

- Canning funnel

- Ladle

- Potato masher (for crushing cherries)

- Sterilizing equipment (dishwasher or boiling water)

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Jars:** Start by sterilizing your canning jars and lids. You can do this by placing them in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes or running them through the dishwasher.

2. **Cook the Cherries:** In a large pot, combine the pitted cherries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Use a potato masher to crush the cherries and release their juices.

3. **Strain the Juice:** After simmering, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot to collect the cherry juice. You should have about 3 cups of juice.

4. **Add Pectin:** Return the cherry juice to the pot and stir in the fruit pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.

5. **Add Sugar:** Once boiling, quickly add the granulated sugar all at once. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil for 1-2 minutes.

6. **Test for Doneness:** To check if your jelly is ready, drop a spoonful of the mixture onto a cold plate. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s ready for canning.

7. **Fill the Jars:** Using a ladle and canning funnel, fill your sterilized jars with the hot cherry jelly, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue.

8. **Seal the Jars:** Place the sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight.

9. **Process the Jars:** Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly. The water should cover the jars by at least an inch.

10. **Cool and Store:** Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a clean towel or cooling rack. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, it’s sealed. Store your sealed jars in a cool, dark place.

#### Variations and Tips

Feel free to experiment with your cherry jelly canning recipe. You can mix in other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jelly. Adding herbs like mint or basil can also give your jelly a unique twist. For those who prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative.

Remember, the key to a successful jelly is the balance of fruit and sugar, as well as ensuring your jars are properly sealed. With this cherry jelly canning recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the taste of summer cherries long after the season has ended. Happy canning!