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Perfect Bourbon Cherry Jam Small Batch Recipe

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A quick and easy small batch bourbon cherry jam recipe that balances tart cherries with sweet sugar and a subtle warmth from bourbon. Perfect for toast, cheese boards, and gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved (about 300 grams)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (30 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (30 ml)
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter (5 grams), optional
  • 1 tablespoon pectin, optional

Instructions

  1. Wash, pit, and halve about 2 cups (300 grams) of fresh cherries. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess liquid before starting.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice, 1/4 cup (60 ml) water, and 1 teaspoon (5 grams) unsalted butter. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Place the pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves and cherries soften. Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until jam thickens and becomes glossy.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) bourbon whiskey during the last 5 minutes of simmering. Stir and cook to meld flavors without boiling off all alcohol.
  5. Test jam consistency by spooning a small amount onto a chilled plate. Let cool for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s done; if runny, simmer longer.
  6. Ladle hot jam into clean glass jars. Let cool to room temperature before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Avoid over-stirring once jam thickens to prevent grainy texture. Use fresh lemon juice for best acidity and jam set. Butter helps reduce foaming but can be omitted for dairy-free version. Test jam set early as it thickens more when cooled. Warm jars before filling to prevent cracking and preserve freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon cherry jam, small batch jam, homemade jam, cherry jam recipe, easy jam recipe, bourbon recipes, fruit preserves

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/perfect-bourbon-cherry-jam-small-batch-recipe-easy-homemade-guide/