Go Back
Jar of homemade cherry jam with fresh cherries and biscuits on a wooden table

Cherry–Red Pepper Sweet Heat Jam

A delightful blend of sweet cherries and spicy red bell pepper for a versatile jam that's perfect for spreads, glazes, or toppings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Spread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2.5 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and finely chopped Use frozen cherries when fresh aren’t available.
  • 1 large red bell pepper, finely diced You can substitute with yellow or orange bell pepper.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes, adjusted to taste Adjust flakes slowly for kid-friendly heat.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Lemon brightens, don’t skip it.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine the chopped cherries, diced red bell pepper, and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. Stir until the sugar starts to pull juice.
  2. Add the apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and salt. Stir to blend the flavors.
  3. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; you’ll hear a soft bubbling and smell the first sweet notes.
  4. Reduce the heat slightly and stir frequently for about 30 minutes; the jam will thicken and the cherries will break down into glossy bits.
  5. Watch for small foam and a few golden edges—this is normal. If it threatens to stick, lower the heat and stir more often.
  6. When spoonfuls coat a cold plate and don’t run, remove from heat and let cool a bit. Scoop into clean jars while warm.
Serving Suggestions
  1. Spoon warm jam over cream cheese and serve with crackers. Garnish with thyme.
  2. Brush on pork chops in the last 5 minutes of grilling for a sticky glaze.
  3. Use as a condiment on a cheese board with aged cheddar and walnuts.
  4. Spread thin on a turkey sandwich for bright contrast.

Notes

Store in a clean jar for up to 2 weeks in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. For a spicy twist, stir in a pinch more red pepper flakes while warm.