How do you can fresh cherries? Preserving cherries is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of these delightful fruits all year round. Canning cherries allows you to capture the essence of summer in a jar, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to desserts, salads, or as a refreshing snack. In this article, we will guide you through the process of canning fresh cherries, ensuring that you can enjoy their goodness long after the season has passed.
Before you embark on the journey of canning fresh cherries, it is essential to gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients. You will need fresh cherries, a pot for boiling, canning jars, lids, a jar lifter, a canning funnel, a clean towel, and a ladle. It is also important to ensure that your canning jars and lids are clean and free from any defects, as this will help prevent spoilage and ensure the safety of your preserved cherries.
Start by preparing the cherries. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, remove the stems and pits from each cherry. There are a couple of methods to pit cherries; you can use a cherry pitter or make a small incision on the bottom of the cherry and gently twist to remove the pit. Once pitted, you can choose to leave the cherries whole or halve them, depending on your preference.
Next, prepare a water bath canner by filling it with water and bringing it to a boil. While the water is heating, place your canning jars and lids in the boiling water for about 10 minutes to sterilize them. This step is crucial in preventing contamination and ensuring the longevity of your canned cherries.
Once the water is boiling, gently fill the jars with the prepared cherries, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. This space allows for expansion during the canning process. Use the canning funnel to prevent any spills or damage to the jars. After filling the jars, wipe the rim with a clean towel to remove any moisture and place the lids on top. Screw the bands on tightly, but not too tight, as this can create an airtight seal that may cause the jars to break during processing.
Lower the filled jars into the boiling water bath, ensuring they are fully submerged. Bring the water back to a boil and process the jars for the recommended time, which is typically about 25 minutes for pints and 30 minutes for quarts. The processing time can vary depending on altitude and the specific canning recipe you are following, so it is important to consult a reliable source for accurate instructions.
After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath using the jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you will hear the lids seal. If the lids are properly sealed, you will hear a popping sound as the air is pushed out and the vacuum seal is formed. Allow the jars to cool completely before checking the seals. If any jars have not sealed, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
Canning fresh cherries is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the flavors of summer throughout the year. By following these steps and using proper canning techniques, you can preserve the sweet and tangy goodness of cherries for your enjoyment. So, next time you have an abundance of fresh cherries, don’t let them go to waste – can them and savor the taste of summer all year long!
