SPECIAL SOUR CHERRY JAM WITH APPLE, ORANGE & SPICES
This sour cherry jam is a unique twist on the classic recipe, inspired by last year’s successful plum jam with raisins and walnuts. Combining cherries, apples, and orange with warm ginger and cinnamon creates a rich, layered flavor perfect for those who enjoy something a bit different.
🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes + resting
🍳 Cook Time: 10 minutes
🍯 Yields: 2 jars (800 ml and 300 ml)
Ingredients
- 1 kg pitted sour cherries
- 2 apples (about 300 g), peeled and diced
- 1 orange (zest and peeled, diced)
- 1 heaping tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 500 g Dr. Oetker Extra gelling sugar
Instructions
- Remove pits from the sour cherries. Peel, core, and dice the apples. Zest the orange, peel it, and dice the flesh.
- Chill 3 small plates in the freezer for later testing.
- Combine all fruits in a large bowl. Add ginger, cinnamon, and orange zest. Mix well. Sprinkle the gelling sugar evenly on top, stir gently, and let the mixture rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours to macerate.
- Transfer the fruit mixture to a large pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. A pink foam will appear on the surface once boiling starts.
- Simmer gently for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low. Test jam consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; return it to the freezer for 1 minute. If the jam sets and wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready. If not, simmer for another minute and test again.
- Sterilize jars by washing and drying, then heating in a 200°C (390°F) oven for 20 minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, clean the rims, seal tightly, invert jars for 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal.
- Wrap jars in a thick blanket and let cool overnight in a dry place.
- Store in a cool, dark pantry or cellar.
💡 Tips
- Allowing the mixture to macerate intensifies fruit flavors and softens the texture.
- Testing jam consistency with chilled plates ensures perfect setting.
- The combination of sour cherries with warm spices and citrus adds a sophisticated flavor profile.
🎉 Perfect For
- Spreading on toast or scones
- Accompanying cheese plates
- Gifts for friends and family during festive seasons
📝 Final Thoughts
This special sour cherry jam brings together tart cherries, sweet apples, and bright orange with warming ginger and cinnamon, resulting in a deliciously complex preserve. Its unique flavor and perfect texture make it an exceptional treat to enjoy all year round.