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–+ servings
A piece of toast coated with lemon cherry preserves sprinkled with lemon zest laying on a wood cutting board.

Homemade Lemon Cherry Preserves (With Canning Instructions)

Sweet, tart, and bursting with fresh cherry flavor, these homemade lemon cherry preserves are the perfect way to capture summer in a jar. Made with ripe cherries, sugar, and a hint of lemon, this preserve is simple to make and perfect for canning to enjoy all year long.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Processing Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 3 pints

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4.5 pounds fresh cherries, pitted6 cups granulated sugar1/3 cup bottled lemon juice + 1 tablespoon2 tablespoons grated lemon peel
  • 4½ pounds fresh cherries (pitted)
  • 6 cups granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup bottled lemon juice + 1 tablespoon
  • 2 tablespoons grated lemon peel (or approximately one large lemon)

Instructions

  • Prepare Your Cherries
    Wash and pit the cherries. A cherry pitter makes this step much faster, but you can also do it with a paring knife if needed.
  • Combine Ingredients
    In a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot, add cherries, sugar, bottled lemon juice, and lemon peel. Stir well to combine.
  • Cook the Preserves
    Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Reduce heat and simmer until the cherries soften and the mixture thickens, about 30–40 minutes. Use an immersion blender to blend the cherries until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Test for Doneness
    You can test the preserves by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
  • Ladle into Jars
    Carefully ladle the hot preserves into warm, sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, then place lids and bands on top.
  • Process in a Water Bath
    Process jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude as needed). Once finished, remove the jars and let them cool on a towel undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
  • Store & Enjoy
    Check lids for a proper seal before storing. Properly sealed jars can be kept in a cool, dark place for up to 12–18 months. Open jars should be refrigerated and enjoyed within a few weeks.

Notes

Tips for Making the Best Cherry Preserves

  • Use bottled lemon juice for canning – It ensures consistent acidity levels for food safety.
  • Don’t skip the lemon peel – It adds brightness and depth of flavor.
  • Thicken naturally – This recipe doesn’t need added pectin; just cook long enough for the sugars to gel naturally.
  • Prep ahead – Pit your cherries the night before and refrigerate, so cooking day goes faster.