Small Batch Cherry Jam : Perfect for Your Family!

Name: Small Batch Cherry Jam
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ cups halved and pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from about one lemon)

Posted on January 21, 2026

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This deliciously simple Small Batch Cherry Jam comes together in about 30 minutes, all in one pot for a quick treat that your family will love! Switch up the fruit to suit your taste or use it as a “clean out the fridge” recipe to use up fresh cherries before they go bad. Trust me, this jam is a game-changer for breakfast, snacks, or even as a topping for desserts!

Ingredients for Small Batch Cherry Jam

To whip up this amazing cherry jam, you’ll need:

2½ cups halved and pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen, no judgment here!)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice (from about one lemon)

Ingredient Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at each ingredient and its wonderful role in our jam:

Sweet Cherries: The star of the show! Feel free to use fresh, sweet cherries in season, or frozen cherries when they aren’t available. I’ve made this with both, and trust me, it’s always a hit! Fresh cherries give it a vibrant flavor, while frozen can save you time when you’re in a hurry.
Granulated Sugar: This is what gives our jam that sweet, luscious flavor. It helps preserve the jam, too! I like to keep my sugar ratio simple, too much can overwhelm the cherry flavor, but just the right amount makes it magical.
Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice introduces a bit of brightness to the jam. It enhances the sweetness of the cherries and balances the flavor profile. Plus, the acidity from the lemon helps preserve the jam!

Now, let’s get into the fun part, shall we?

Let’s Get Cooking!

How to Make Small Batch Cherry Jam

Prepare the Cherries (about 5 minutes)
- If using fresh cherries, start by washing them thoroughly. Halve and pit them, it can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s so worth it! Grab your sharpest knife, and enjoy the juicy splendor of those cherries!
Combine Ingredients (about 5 minutes)
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Now, this is where the magic begins. The moment you start stirring it all together, you’ll notice the cherries releasing their juices, and oh boy, the fragrance is out of this world!
Cook the Jam (10-15 minutes)
- Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. You’ll see the sugar dissolve, and the cherries will begin to break down. Keep stirring, and wait for that tempting sweet aroma to fill your kitchen, it’s heavenly!
- Once it starts gently bubbling, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to avoid any sticking or burning on the bottom. You want it to thicken up nicely!
Test for Doneness (about 5 minutes)
- To check if your jam is set, take a small spoonful and place it on a plate in the freezer for a couple of minutes. Once it cools, run your finger through it. If it holds its shape and doesn’t flood back together, you’re all set! If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes, simple as that!
Jar It Up (5 minutes)
- Carefully pour your warm cherry jam into sterilized jars. If you’re making this as a gift or for your pantry, you can process the jars in a water bath to seal them. Sort of like a warm hug in a jar! If you’re enjoying this jam right away, just pop the lid on, let it cool, and voilà you’ve got homemade cherry jam!

Personal Connection to This Recipe

This Small Batch Cherry Jam is my go-to recipe when I want to spread a bit of joy! I’m a real sucker for jam; it takes me back to my childhood, helping my grandma in the kitchen while she made her version of cherry jam from the trees in her backyard. Seeing how happy it made everyone inspired me to create my own! The best part is feeling like a superstar when my kids ask for more, who would’ve thought homemade could gallantly replace store-bought?!

If you enjoyed this cherry jam, make sure to check out my Cherry Crumble Bars, Cherry Pie Bites, and Easy Cherry Syrup! Each one’s packed full of sweetness and nostalgia, perfect complements to our cherry jam!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This Small Batch Cherry Jam comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy mornings when you want something delicious, without spending hours in the kitchen.

Minimal Cleanup Required

The beauty of this recipe is it’s made all in one pot! You won’t have a sink full of dishes to tackle, which is a major win. Less mess means more time to enjoy your jam!

Budget-Friendly

With only three simple ingredients, it’s made from affordable, everyday items you probably have in your pantry. Plus, if cherries are in season, they’ll likely be cheaper, making this recipe not only delicious but also kind to your wallet!

Make-Ahead Friendly

This jam is perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it right away, but you can also store it in the fridge for about three weeks, or longer if properly canned. It keeps beautifully and tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together!

Customizable

You can easily switch up the fruit! Use whatever you have on hand blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix. The world is your oyster… or your jam, I suppose!

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to pair this gorgeous jam with? Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

Spread on toast: It’s a classic way to enjoy jam!
As a topping: Perfect for pancakes, waffles, or even yogurt!
In desserts: Mix into cakes or spoon over cheesecake for a fancy touch.
Savory dishes: A dollop adds a delicious contrast when paired with meats like pork or chicken.

How to Store This Small Batch Cherry Jam

Storage: Keep your jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks if opened. Unopened jars can last for months on the shelf when properly processed. Always ensure your jars are clean and sealed tight!

Reheating: If you have leftover jam that’s firmed up in the fridge, just warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it softens. You can also microwave it for about 15-20 seconds, just be careful not to burn your mouth on that deliciousness!

Freezer-Friendly: Yes, yes, and yes! This jam freezes beautifully. Just make sure to use airtight containers or freezer-safe jars, leaving a little room for expansion (jam grows when it freezes!). Pop those babies in the freezer for up to a yearly sweet surprise!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe, and they’re often easier to find out of season.

What if my jam doesn’t set?
Don’t worry! Just simmer a little longer, and remember to do the plate test until it’s set. A couple more minutes can make all the difference!

Can I add spices?
For sure! A dash of cinnamon or a hint of vanilla can elevate your jam even further, just make it your own!

Make this Small Batch Cherry Jam, and enjoy those delicious, wholesome flavors brought straight from your kitchen. I promise, you’ll be hooked! Happy cooking!

And there you have it! Your warm, comforting, homemade Small Batch Cherry Jam is ready to impress friends and family alike. Now, get to it you’ve got sweet adventures waiting! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.