Sugar-free cherry jam: delicious and very light

Cherry jam is a timeless classic for breakfast and snacks, prized for its sweetness and versatility. However, many people are looking for healthier alternatives and avoiding using refined sugar.

Fortunately, it is possible to make a delicious sugar-free cherry jam by taking advantage of the natural sweetness of the fruit and a few little tricks. Let’s see together how to do it.

Ingredients
500 g fresh cherries: make sure they are ripe and sweet.
1 apple: The natural pectin in the apple helps thicken the jam.
The juice of half a lemon: Lemon not only gives a fresh note, but also acts as a natural preservative.
Natural sweetener (optional): If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add stevia, erythritol, or agave syrup.

Preparing
the cherries:
Wash the cherries thoroughly and remove the pits. If you have a core barrel, this step is faster.
Cut the cherries in half or quarters depending on the desired consistency of the jam.
Preparation of the apple:
Wash, peel and cut the apple into small pieces. The apple not only thickens the jam with its natural pectin, but also gives it extra sweetness without the need for sugar.
Preparation:
Combine the cherries and apple in a large saucepan. Add the lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally so that the fruit doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes. The fruit should start to fall apart and the mixture should thicken.
If you want a smoother jam consistency, you can puree the fruit with an immersion blender.
Consistency check:
To check if the jam has reached the right consistency, put a teaspoon of jam on a cold saucer. If the jam doesn’t drain easily when tilting the plate, it’s ready.
If the jam is too runny, continue cooking and repeat the test after a few minutes.
Pour into jars: Pour hot jam into sterilized jars,
leaving about a centimeter of space around the rim.
Close the jars with sterilized lids and turn them upside down to create a vacuum.
After cooling, check that the center of the lid is not slightly concave, a sign that a vacuum has formed.
Storage
Store the jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store them in the refrigerator and consume the jam within a few weeks.

Spice tip: While cooking, add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves for an aromatic note.
Other fruits: You can combine cherries with other low-sugar fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries, to make mixed jam.
Making sugar-free cherry jam is not only possible, but it can also be a tasty and healthy choice. Experiment with the variations and find the combination that works best for you for a sweet and healthy breakfast.