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Flavorful Tart Cherry Vanilla Bean Jam Small Batch Recipe

tart cherry vanilla bean jam - featured image

A small batch homemade tart cherry jam infused with vanilla bean, perfect for toast, cheese boards, or yogurt. This easy recipe balances tartness and sweetness with a cozy vanilla warmth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 300 grams) tart cherries, pitted and fresh or frozen (thawed)
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Pit and halve about 2 cups (300g) of fresh tart cherries. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain any excess liquid (about 10 minutes).
  2. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully slice the vanilla bean pod lengthwise. Scrape out the tiny black seeds with the back of the knife, and set seeds and pod aside.
  3. Add cherries, sugar, lemon juice, water, vanilla seeds, and the empty vanilla pod to a medium saucepan. Stir gently to combine (5 minutes).
  4. Place saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until jam thickens and cherries break down.
  5. Test the jam’s consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and tilting it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t run quickly, it’s ready; if not, cook a few minutes longer and test again.
  6. Remove the vanilla pod carefully to avoid bitterness.
  7. Pour the hot jam into sterilized small jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly. Let jars cool to room temperature uncovered (about 1 hour), then refrigerate.

Notes

Use organic tart cherries if possible for best flavor. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove vanilla pod before jarring to prevent bitterness. Test jam set with wrinkle test or candy thermometer (220°F). Store refrigerated up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: tart cherry jam, vanilla bean jam, small batch jam, homemade jam, easy jam recipe, cherry preserves, vegan jam, gluten-free jam