Cherries are like little jewels, bursting with flavor and sweetness. You won’t believe how simple it is to capture their essence in a jar, ready to be savored at any moment.
Classic Cherry Preserves
This timeless recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cherries with a hint of tartness, making it a favorite for many. With just cherries, sugar, and lemon juice, this preserve hones in on the authentic taste of fresh cherries.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and reliance on the fruit’s natural flavors. As you simmer the cherries with sugar, the mixture transforms into a luscious, ruby-red preserve that is both visually and gastronomically appealing. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or even as a filling for pastries.
Vanilla Cherry Preserves
Imagine the rich, warm aroma of vanilla combined with the sweet-tart essence of cherries. This recipe adds a touch of vanilla to the classic preserve, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
The secret here is using a vanilla bean or pure vanilla extract, which blends beautifully with the cherries as they cook down. The result? A preserve that’s not only delightful on the palate but also has a scent that will fill your kitchen with warmth and coziness. It’s like a cherry pie in a jar, perfect for adding a gourmet touch to your breakfast or dessert.
Cherry Almond Preserves
Almonds and cherries are a match made in heaven, and this preserve proves it. With a hint of almond extract, this recipe enhances the cherry’s natural flavor, creating a nutty, aromatic spread.
Almond extract is the key player here, providing a subtle nuttiness that complements the cherries without overpowering them. This preserve is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its glossy finish and rich color. It’s an ideal topping for ice cream, a filling for croissants, or simply on a spoon straight from the jar.
Whether you’re an almond lover or just looking to try something new, this preserve is sure to become a staple in your pantry.
Spiced Cherry Preserves

Winter Spiced Cherry Jam from Albion Gould
If you love a bit of spice in your life, this preserve is for you. Infused with cinnamon and cloves, these spices add warmth and depth to the cherries, making each spoonful a comforting delight.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors. The spices enhance the cherries without overshadowing them, creating a harmonious blend that’s perfect for the colder months. It’s a great way to bring the cozy flavors of the holiday season into your home, no matter the time of year.
Serve it with a cheese platter for an elegant appetizer, or swirl it into oatmeal for a spiced breakfast treat.
Cherry Lemon Preserves
The zesty brightness of lemon combined with the sweetness of cherries makes for a refreshingly unique preserve. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of tang with their sweet.
Lemon zest and juice are the stars here, cutting through the sweetness of the cherries and adding a vibrant freshness. It’s a preserve that tastes like sunshine in a jar, ideal for brightening up your day. Spread it on pancakes, use it as a cake filling, or enjoy it with a spoon.
Honey Cherry Preserves

Honey sweetened cherry jam from Roots & Wren

Cherry Preserves with Honey and Rosemary from Food in Jars
For a natural twist, this recipe uses honey instead of sugar, providing a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with cherries. It’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Honey adds a depth of flavor and a subtle richness that sugar just can’t match. As the cherries and honey cook together, they create a silky, smooth preserve that’s perfect for those looking to reduce refined sugar intake. Drizzle it over Greek yogurt, serve it with scones, or enjoy it as a glaze for roasted meats.
This preserve is not only delicious but also packed with the goodness of honey, making it a treat you can feel good about indulging in.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Cherry Preserves
Pick the Right Cherries
Choosing ripe, unblemished cherries is crucial for the best flavor. Look for firm cherries with a deep red color, as they will provide the richest taste and the best texture for your preserves.
Perfect the Pectin
While some recipes rely on natural pectin in the fruit, others might need a little help. If your preserve isn’t thickening up, try adding a bit of pectin or letting it cook longer to achieve the desired consistency.
Seal It Right
Ensure your jars are properly sterilized and sealed to keep your preserves fresh. After filling and sealing, process the jars in a boiling water bath for the recommended time to ensure a proper seal and longevity.