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Cherry-Bourbon Pepper Jam

This Cherry-Bourbon Pepper Jam is a delightful blend of sweet cherries, warming bourbon, and spicy peppers, perfect for spreading or glazing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 3 half-pint jars
Course: Appetizer, Condiment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped Fresh cherries = brighter flavor
  • 1.5 cups sugar
  • 0.5 cups bourbon Choose decent-quality bourbon
  • 0.25 cups apple cider vinegar Mild tang
  • 2 pieces red chili peppers, finely minced Adjust to taste; mince chilies small for even heat
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon Optional
  • 1 packet fruit pectin (1.75 oz) Sets jam reliably

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine cherries, sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, minced chilies, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a large saucepan. Stir until the sugar looks wet.
  2. Heat the pan over medium and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir frequently so the sugar dissolves.
  3. Keep the mixture at a steady boil for 10–15 minutes. You'll hear a steady sizzle and smell bright, fruity steam as the cherries break down.
  4. Watch the texture. The jam will thicken slightly and lose some bright gloss; that's the cue it’s close.
  5. Stir in the fruit pectin and bring the mixture back to a full, rolling boil. Boil hard for 1–2 minutes while stirring.
  6. Remove from heat and skim off any foam with a spoon. Pour into sterilized jars, seal them, and process in a water bath if you store long-term. Allow jars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating or pantry-storing.

Notes

For a smoother jam, mash cherries lightly with a potato masher while cooking. If you want a glaze for meats, make a smaller batch and cook a bit longer to concentrate.