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Flavorful Sour Cherry Balsamic Jam Recipe with Dark Chocolate Swirl

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A unique homemade jam combining tart sour cherries with the depth of balsamic vinegar and a luxurious dark chocolate swirl, perfect for a sophisticated treat or gift.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600g) sour cherries, pitted
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 ounces (85g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
  • 1 tablespoon pectin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pit about 4 cups (600g) of fresh sour cherries. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain excess liquid.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine cherries, 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar. Stir to mix evenly. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and simmer gently. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Continue simmering for 25-30 minutes until thickened and coats the back of a spoon. If using, stir in 1 tablespoon pectin about 10 minutes into simmering.
  4. Test jam doneness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s ready. If not, simmer longer.
  5. While jam simmers, gently melt 3 ounces (85g) dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave until smooth and set aside.
  6. Remove jam from heat. Pour hot jam into clean jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Immediately drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top and use a skewer or toothpick to create swirls without mixing completely.
  7. Let jars cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate. Jam will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

Use fresh sour or tart cherries for best flavor. Pectin is optional and speeds setting. Melt chocolate gently to avoid seizing. Stir jam every few minutes to prevent burning. Swirl chocolate carefully to maintain visual ribbons. Jam thickens more as it cools. Refrigerate after opening and use within 3 weeks. Can freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: sour cherry jam, balsamic jam, dark chocolate swirl, homemade jam, fruit preserves, easy jam recipe, tart cherry jam

Find it online: https://avabake.com/flavorful-sour-cherry-balsamic-jam-recipe-with-dark-chocolate-swirl-easy-homemade-delight/