If you love the rich, concentrated flavor of cherries but want a jam that offers a unique twist, cherry jam made with dried cherries is an excellent choice. This list covers ten standout cherry jams crafted from dried cherries, perfect for those seeking intense fruitiness, longer shelf life, or simply a different texture and sweetness profile than fresh cherry jams. Whether you’re a jam enthusiast, a foodie looking for gourmet spreads, or someone who wants to preserve cherries in a creative way, these options showcase the best of what dried cherry jams have to offer.
1. Stonewall Kitchen Cherry Preserves with Dried Cherries
Stonewall Kitchen’s cherry preserves incorporate dried cherries alongside fresh fruit to create a jam with a deeper, more complex cherry flavor. The dried cherries add a chewy texture contrast and intensify the natural sweetness without relying heavily on added sugar. This product is prized for its balanced tartness and is great on toast or paired with sharp cheeses.
2. Bonne Maman Cherry Jam with Dried Cherries
Bonne Maman, known for traditional French jams, includes dried cherries in some of their cherry varieties to enrich the flavor and extend shelf stability. Their jam maintains a bright cherry aroma but gains a subtle caramel note from the dried fruit. Its artisanal approach and minimal additives make it a favorite for those who appreciate authentic, simple ingredients.
3. Wildly Delicious Cherry & Dried Cherry Jam
This small-batch jam from Wildly Delicious uses sun-dried cherries harvested in the Pacific Northwest, infusing the jam with a natural sweetness and a hint of earthiness. The brand emphasizes organic ingredients and slow cooking methods, which preserve the dried cherries’ flavor while producing a thick, spreadable consistency. It’s especially popular among fans of natural and organic preserves.
4. Smucker’s Natural Cherry Jam with Dried Cherries
Smucker’s Natural line occasionally features cherry jams that blend fresh and dried cherries for a more concentrated taste without artificial preservatives. The dried cherries help reduce the need for extra sweeteners, giving the jam a cleaner ingredient list. This option is widely available and offers consistent quality for everyday use.
5. Trader Joe’s Cherry Preserves with Dried Cherries
Trader Joe’s cherry preserves often incorporate dried cherries to boost flavor intensity while keeping the jam affordably priced. Their version is known for a vibrant color and a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a versatile choice for breakfast or baking. The inclusion of dried cherries adds a subtle chewiness that differentiates it from typical cherry spreads.
6. Stonewall Kitchen Black Cherry Preserves
Although primarily made with fresh cherries, Stonewall Kitchen’s black cherry preserves include dried black cherries to deepen the flavor profile. The dried fruit adds complexity and a richer aroma, which is especially appreciated in gourmet cooking and as a topping for desserts like cheesecake. This jam is a favorite among those who prefer darker, more robust cherry flavors.
7. The Jam Stand Cherry Jam with Dried Cherries
The Jam Stand, an artisanal producer, uses locally sourced dried cherries in their cherry jam to enhance sweetness naturally. Their small-batch approach ensures that the dried cherries retain their character, contributing a nuanced texture and an intensified cherry essence. This jam is ideal for foodies who enjoy supporting local and craft producers.
8. Wilkin & Sons Tiptree Cherry Conserve with Dried Cherries
Wilkin & Sons, makers of the iconic Tiptree brand, include dried cherries in their cherry conserve to enrich the jam’s texture and flavor complexity. The dried cherries are carefully integrated to maintain a perfect balance between the fresh fruit’s tartness and the dried fruit’s sweetness. This classic British jam is widely praised for its smooth consistency and authentic cherry taste.
9. Crofter’s Organic Cherry Spread with Dried Cherries
Crofters Organic cherry spread incorporates dried cherries to boost natural sweetness while keeping the product USDA organic certified. The dried cherries contribute to a thicker, more robust texture and a concentrated cherry flavor that stands out in organic jams. This spread is a solid pick for those seeking organic options without sacrificing taste.
10. Bonne Maman Morello Cherry Preserves with Dried Cherries
Bonne Maman’s Morello cherry preserves use dried Morello cherries, a tart variety, to deepen the jam’s flavor and provide a lively contrast to the natural sweetness. The dried cherries add a chewiness and complexity that elevate the jam beyond standard cherry spreads. This product is particularly favored by those who enjoy a tart kick in their fruit preserves.
How to Choose
When selecting cherry jam made with dried cherries, consider the following factors: first, the type of cherries used—tart Morello cherries versus sweet Bing cherries can drastically change the flavor profile. Second, check whether the jam is organic or contains added preservatives and sugars, depending on your dietary preferences. Texture is another key point; dried cherries add chewiness, so decide if you prefer a smoother or chunkier jam. Lastly, think about the intended use—some jams are better suited for spreading on toast, while others shine as dessert toppings or cooking ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why use dried cherries instead of fresh in jam?
A: Dried cherries concentrate the fruit’s natural sugars and flavors, providing a richer taste and longer shelf life compared to fresh cherries.
Q: Does dried cherry jam have more sugar?
A: Not necessarily; dried cherries are naturally sweeter, so some recipes use less added sugar, but always check the label to be sure.
Q: Can I make cherry jam at home using dried cherries?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to rehydrate the dried cherries or cook them longer to achieve the right texture and flavor balance.
Q: How long does cherry jam with dried cherries last?
A: Unopened, it can last up to a year in a cool, dark place; once opened, refrigerate and consume within 1-3 months for best quality.
Q: Is cherry jam with dried cherries good for baking?
A: Absolutely, the intense flavor and texture from dried cherries can enhance pastries, tarts, and even glazes.
Final Thoughts
Cherry jam made with dried cherries offers a unique and intensified cherry experience that stands out from traditional fresh cherry jams. The dried fruit’s concentrated sweetness and chewy texture add depth and complexity, making these jams versatile for everything from breakfast spreads to gourmet cooking. By considering the type of cherries, texture, and ingredient quality, you can find a dried cherry jam that perfectly matches your taste and culinary needs. Whether you choose a mass-market favorite or a small-batch artisan brand, this style of cherry jam is a delightful way to enjoy cherries year-round.
Related
- What Are the 2 Types of Fats and How to Choose Them
- Kiwi Pineapple Banana Smoothie Benefits and How to Make It
- Types of Fats Chart: Understanding Healthy and Unhealthy Fats