Cherries In Syrup: the super easy recipe to preserve cherries

Preserving cherries in syrup is a great way to preserve the season’s cherries for months to come. So now is the best time to get going on the overabundance of cherries around you. The cherry season usually starts in mid-April and runs through to August. The cherries become sweet and bursting with flavor. And the best of all is that you don’t need lots of ingredients.

To make preserved cherries in syrup, you only need cherries, sugar, and water! The cherries in syrup can be stored for up to 2 years and can be used as a topping for desserts, pancakes, waffles, and yogurt. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the cherry season!

Ingredients For Cherries In Syrup

Cherries – for this recipe, you can use either sweet or sour cherries, both will be suitable.

Sugar – use granulated sugar.

Water – make sure it is at room temperature.

How To Make Cherries In Syrup

Prepare the cherries by placing them in a large bowl and topping them with fresh water. Wash the cherries and then remove the stems (and pits, if preferred).

Fill two sterilized glass jars with the washed, stemless cherries. Add a tablespoon of sugar to each jar, then fill it with water. Close the jars and turn them upside down. Place in a pot with boiling water and boil for 20 minutes.

Remove from the heat, but leave the jars submerged in the water for 2 hours. They can now be stored for up to 2 years.

How To Use Cherries In Syrup

There are so many tasty ways to enjoy cherries in syrup! Serve them with waffles, pancakes, or ice cream.

Alternatively, you can use the cherries in pound cakes or as a filling for layer cakes.

Tips

This is a recipe for basic cherries in syrup. You can add more flavor by adding vanilla extract or spices like cinnamon (use a cinnamon stick), cloves, all-spice berries, or orange peel.

If using sour cherries, you will need to add extra sugar.

If you prefer, you can remove the cherry stones (or pits) with a cherry use a chopstick or straw, and press down on the center of the cherry until the pit pops out.

Be careful not to overcook the syrup, it should be slightly thickened, but pourable.

How To Store Cherries In Syrup

Store the canned cherries in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years (only if you followed the canning process).

Once the jar is opened, you should keep it refrigerated and consume it within 4 days.

Instructions

Place the cherries in a large bowl and top with water.

Wash the cherries very well, then remove the stems.

Fill two glass jars with the washed, stemless cherries.

Add a tablespoon of sugar to each jar.

Fill the jars with room temperature water.

Boil the jars for 20 minutes.

Remove from the heat and leave the jars submerged in hot water for 2 hours. Store up to two years.

To serve, take the jar of cherries and place it in a pan.

Add more sugar and water and heat for 5 minutes.

Serve the cooked cherries and juice separately.

Notes

The cherries can stain clothing and towels, so make sure to wear an apron, and don’t use brand new kitchen towels unless you want them stained!