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cherry cardamom jam recipe

Cherry Cardamom Jam

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This elegant cherry cardamom jam combines sweet cherries with aromatic spices for a sophisticated spread. The deep ruby color and balanced flavor profile make it perfect for morning toast or an upscale cheese board. Made in small batches, this homemade jam offers the perfect balance of fruit and sweetness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 65
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cherries, pitted (fresh or thawed frozen) about 300g
  • 1/3 cup sugar 65g, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for brightness
  • 1-2 teaspoons chia seeds optional, for quicker setting

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Glass jars

Method
 

  1. Combine pitted cherries with sugar in a saucepan and let macerate for 10-15 minutes to draw out the juices.
  2. Add fresh lemon juice and ground cardamom to the cherry mixture.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to maintain a steady simmer.
  4. Stir frequently for 20-30 minutes as the mixture thickens. For a rustic texture, mash some cherries with your spoon while cooking.
  5. The jam is ready when it holds a line when you run your finger across the back of a coated spoon, or reaches about 220°F on a thermometer.
  6. Remove from heat and taste, adjusting sweetness or spices if needed. Stir in optional lemon zest or chia seeds if using.
  7. Let the jam cool for about 15 minutes before transferring to jars to allow it to thicken further and for flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Calories: 65kcal

Notes

This homemade jam doesn't contain preservatives, so store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For a thicker jam without adding more sugar, try stirring in 1-2 teaspoons of crushed freeze-dried cherries at the end—it adds texture and intensifies the color. Both sweet and tart cherry varieties work well in this recipe.
For variations, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for a deeper spice profile, or stir in half a teaspoon of vanilla extract after cooking for a vanilla-cherry version. Serve on warm buttered scones, swirled into yogurt, or paired with soft cheeses.

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