There is something absolutely magical about homemade cherry jam, and with this Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe, you get that perfect blend of fresh, tangy cherries and sweet honey in a fraction of the time it usually takes. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, spreadable delight that brightens up your breakfast toast, yogurt bowls, or even afternoon tea with friends. Plus, using the Instant Pot means minimal fuss and maximum flavor, making this cherry jam feel like a little bit of kitchen luxury anyone can whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a balance of sweetness, tartness, and the ideal jam consistency that’s perfect for spreading.
- Fresh cherries: The star of the recipe, pitted fresh cherries bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps enhance the fruit’s natural tang while aiding the gelling process.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that complements the cherries’ flavor and offers a smooth texture.
- Pectin: Essential for creating that perfect jam-like thickness without needing long cooking times.
How to Make Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cherries
Start by cleaning and carefully removing the pits from your fresh cherries. This step ensures your jam will be smooth and easy to spread. Once pitted, set the cherries aside—this little prep is the foundation for all the deliciousness to come.
Step 2: Melt the Honey
Place your Instant Pot on the sauté setting and add the honey. Allow it to gently heat and melt, which will help incorporate it easily into the jam mixture. Be sure to keep an eye on it so the honey doesn’t burn or caramelize too much.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Turn off the Instant Pot, then add the pitted cherries, lemon juice, and pectin powder directly into the pot with the melted honey. Stir everything together well to ensure an even distribution of fruit and thickening agent.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Jam
Close the lid and seal the valve tightly. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Pressure cooking expedites the jam-making process, extracting flavors and activating the pectin for that perfect set.
Step 5: Natural Pressure Release and Cool
Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 8 minutes. Then carefully finish releasing any remaining pressure and open the lid. Transfer the jam to a bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature, so it thickens nicely and is ready for storage.
Step 6: Store Your Cherry Jam
Pour the cooled jam into glass jars and seal them properly. This preserves the jam’s freshness and flavor. Keep the jars refrigerated and enjoy your homemade cherry jam for weeks to come!
How to Serve Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a few whole cherries atop your jam spread instantly adds a pop of color and freshness. Not only do these garnishes look charming on a plate, but they also brighten each bite, making the experience even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This cherry jam pairs wonderfully with freshly toasted baguette slices, creamy vanilla yogurt, or even a mild cheese platter. The sweet and slightly tart jam offers a perfect contrast that elevates simple snacks into something special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, swirl the cherry jam into your morning oatmeal or pancake batter before cooking. You can also use it as a decadent filling for homemade pastries or dollop it on top of ice cream for an indulgent treat. This Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe is versatile enough to inspire your culinary creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep your jam in airtight glass jars in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three weeks, making it a convenient and flavorful addition to your meals all week long.
Freezing
You can freeze cherry jam for extended storage by pouring it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion. Frozen jam lasts for several months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Gently warm your jam in a saucepan over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave to bring back that beautiful spreadable consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching and enjoy the comforting aroma filling your kitchen.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a runnier jam.
Is honey necessary, or can I use sugar?
Honey adds a unique flavor and natural sweetness, but you can substitute sugar if preferred. Just keep in mind the texture and sweetness level might differ slightly.
What type of pectin should I use?
Use a powdered pectin suitable for stovetop and pressure cooker recipes. Check the packaging for specifics, but most standard fruit pectin powders will work beautifully.
How long does the jam last once refrigerated?
Properly sealed and stored in the fridge, your cherry jam will stay delicious for up to three weeks.
Can I double or triple this recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can scale up the ingredients, but be mindful of your Instant Pot’s maximum fill line. Overfilling can impact cooking performance and safety.
Final Thoughts
Making your own cherry jam with this Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe is such a rewarding experience. It’s quick, easy, and yields a jam so fresh and flavorful you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought. Whether it’s for your breakfast routine or a lovely gift to share, this recipe fills your kitchen with warmth and your palate with joy. Give it a try—you’re going to love every spoonful.
Print
Instant Pot Cherry Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup of cherry jam
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Instant Pot Cherry Jam recipe is a quick and easy way to make delicious homemade cherry jam using fresh cherries, honey, lemon juice, and pectin. The pressure cooking method helps to infuse flavors and thickens the jam rapidly, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh cherries, pits removed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup honey
- 1 package pectin
Instructions
- Prepare Cherries: Clean and pit the fresh cherries, setting them aside for use in the recipe.
- Melt Honey: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the honey. Cook until it has melted completely, then turn off the Instant Pot.
- Add Ingredients: Combine the cherries, lemon juice, and pectin powder in the pot with the melted honey. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal the valve. Set the Instant Pot to manual high-pressure cooking for 5 minutes.
- Natural Release: After cooking, allow the pressure to naturally release for 8 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure and open the lid.
- Cool and Store: Transfer the jam to a small bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the jam into glass jars, seal them properly, and refrigerate.
Notes
- Remove pits carefully as they can damage your blender or create choking hazards.
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor and texture.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage.
- You can sterilize jars beforehand for longer storage if desired.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the honey amount according to taste.
