Canned whole cherries are a delightful addition to your pantry, offering a burst of fruity sweetness in every bite. This recipe ensures your cherries are preserved to enjoy throughout the year.
Quantity: An average of 17-1/2 pounds is needed per canner load of 7 quarts; an average of 11 pounds is needed per canner load of 9 pints. A lug weighs 25 pounds and yields 8 to 12 quarts - an average of 2-1/2 pounds per quart. Quality: Select bright, uniformly colored cherries that are mature (of ideal quality for eating fresh or cooking). Procedure: Stem and wash cherries. Remove pits if desired. If pitted, place cherries in water containing ascorbic acid to prevent stem-end discoloration. If canned unpitted, prick skins on opposite sides with a clean needle to prevent splitting. Cherries may be canned in water, apple juice, white grape juice, or syrup. If syrup is desired, select and prepare preferred type as directed. Hot pack: In a large saucepan, add 1/2 cup water, juice, or syrup for each quart of drained fruit and bring to boil. Fill jars with cherries and cooking liquid, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Raw pack: Add 1/2 cup hot water, juice, or syrup to each jar. Fill jars with drained cherries, shaking down gently as you fill. Add more hot liquid, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Adjust lids and process. Recommended process time for Cherries, whole in a boiling-water canner: Style of Pack: Hot Raw Jar Size: Pints Quarts Pints or Quarts Process Time at Altitudes of 1,001-3,000 ft: 20 min 25 min 30 min Altitudes of 3,001-6,000 ft: 30 min 35 min Altitudes above 6,000 ft: 35 min 40 min
Indulge in the burst of sweet and tangy flavors that whole cherries offer in this delightful recipe. The natural sweetness of the cherries combines perfectly with the chosen liquid to create a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds.
The process of canning whole cherries not only preserves their freshness but also creates a wonderful experience in the kitchen. From the sound of the boiling liquid to the sight of the vibrant cherries filling the jars, every step is a joy to execute.
Serve these canned whole cherries as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or even as a standalone dessert. They can also be incorporated into baked goods like pies, tarts, or cakes to add a burst of flavor and color.
Experiment with different types of liquids like apple juice or white grape juice to customize the flavor profile of the cherries. Store the canned cherries in a cool, dark place to preserve their quality for an extended period.
I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the joy of enjoying perfectly preserved whole cherries throughout the year. Share your experiences with family and friends, and feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy canning!
