# Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe: A Delectable Delight for Your Taste Buds

Are you ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe! This delightful t……

Are you ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe! This delightful treat not only embodies the essence of summer with its vibrant color and luscious flavor, but it also offers a simple way to preserve the delightful sweetness of cherries. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it on desserts, or enjoying it straight from the jar, this jelly is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

## Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Sweet Cherry Jelly

To create the perfect batch of Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- **Fresh Sweet Cherries**: About 4 cups, pitted and chopped. The fresher, the better!

- **Sugar**: 5 cups, to balance the tartness of the cherries.

- **Pectin**: 1 box of fruit pectin, which helps the jelly set.

- **Lemon Juice**: 1/4 cup, to enhance the flavor and aid in the gelling process.

- **Water**: 1 cup, to help dissolve the sugar and pectin.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Prepare the Cherries

Start by washing your sweet cherries thoroughly. Remove the stems and pits, then chop them into smaller pieces. This will help release their juices and make the jelly-making process easier.

### 2. Cook the Mixture

In a large pot, combine the chopped cherries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the cherries to break down and release their natural juices.

### 3. Strain the Juice

After simmering, it’s time to strain the mixture. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the cherry juice from the pulp. You should end up with about 4 cups of beautiful, vibrant cherry juice.

### 4. Combine Ingredients

In a clean pot, combine the cherry juice, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely. Next, add the pectin and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

### 5. Test for Doneness

To check if your jelly is ready, you can perform the "plate test." Spoon a small amount of the mixture onto a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, you’re good to go!

### 6. Jar It Up

Once your jelly has reached the desired consistency, remove it from heat. Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a proper seal, then place the lids on top.

### 7. Process the Jars

To preserve your Sweet Cherry Jelly, process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial for long-term storage and ensures your jelly remains fresh and safe to eat.

### 8. Cool and Store

Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, it’s sealed correctly. Store your jars in a cool, dark place, and enjoy your homemade jelly for up to a year!

## Why You’ll Love This Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe

Not only is this Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe easy to follow, but it also allows you to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. The vibrant color and rich flavor make it a perfect gift for friends and family or a delightful addition to your breakfast table. Plus, making your own jelly means you can control the ingredients, ensuring that it’s free from preservatives and artificial flavors.

In summary, this Sweet Cherry Jelly Recipe is an irresistible way to savor the sweetness of cherries while creating a homemade treat that you can be proud of. So grab your fresh cherries and get ready to embark on a delicious journey!