What To Know
- Whether you’re making a classic cherry pie, a crumble topping, or using it as a filling for other desserts, having a jar of homemade cherry pie filling on hand is a real treat.
- We’ll cover everything from selecting the right jars and lids to the proper processing time, ensuring your cherry pie filling is safe and delicious for months to come.
- Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water bath using a jar lifter and place them on a clean, dry towel.
Cherry pie filling is a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re making a classic cherry pie, a crumble topping, or using it as a filling for other desserts, having a jar of homemade cherry pie filling on hand is a real treat. But one of the most common questions that arises when making cherry pie filling is: how long to water bath can it?
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully water bath can your cherry pie filling. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right jars and lids to the proper processing time, ensuring your cherry pie filling is safe and delicious for months to come.
Why Water Bath Canning?
Water bath canning is a safe and reliable method for preserving fruits and jams. This method involves immersing sealed jars in a pot of boiling water for a specific amount of time. The heat from the boiling water kills harmful bacteria and creates a vacuum seal within the jars, preventing spoilage.
The Importance of Proper Processing Time
The processing time for water bath canning cherry pie filling is crucial for ensuring safety and quality. Processing time refers to the amount of time the jars need to be submerged in boiling water. This time varies depending on the type of filling and the altitude at which you are canning.
Choosing the Right Jars and Lids
Using the correct jars and lids is essential for successful water bath canning. Always use jars specifically designed for canning, such as those from Ball or Kerr. These jars are made of tempered glass and are designed to withstand the high temperatures and pressure of the canning process.
Preparing Your Cherry Pie Filling
Before you start canning, it’s important to prepare your cherry pie filling properly. This includes:
- Washing and Pitting Cherries: Thoroughly wash and pit your cherries. You can use a cherry pitter for this task, which makes it much easier and quicker.
- Adding Sugar and Thickener: Add sugar to your cherries to taste. You can also add a thickener, such as cornstarch or tapioca starch, to help create a thicker consistency.
- Simmering the Filling: Simmer the cherry filling on the stovetop until the sugar dissolves and the filling thickens. This helps to ensure that the filling is cooked through and ready for canning.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Water Bath Canning Cherry Pie Filling
Now, let’s break down the process of water bath canning cherry pie filling step-by-step:
1. Prepare the Jars: Wash your canning jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and sterilize them by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
2. Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot cherry pie filling into the sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
3. Wipe the Rims: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the rims of the jars, ensuring they are free of any food particles.
4. Place the Lids: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands finger-tight. Don’t overtighten them.
5. Prepare the Water Bath: Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the jars by at least 1-2 inches. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
6. Process the Jars: Carefully lower the jars into the boiling water bath, ensuring they are completely submerged. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water back to a rolling boil.
7. Maintain the Boil: Maintain a rolling boil for the recommended processing time, which will vary depending on the altitude.
8. Remove the Jars: Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water bath using a jar lifter and place them on a clean, dry towel.
9. Cool the Jars: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature, undisturbed. As the jars cool, they will create a vacuum seal.
10. Check the Seals: Once the jars are cool, press down on the center of the lid. If the lid doesn’t flex, the jar has sealed properly.
How Long to Water Bath Can Cherry Pie Filling: Processing Times
Here’s a general guideline for water bath canning cherry pie filling:
- At Sea Level: Process the jars for 20 minutes.
- At 1,000 Feet: Process the jars for 25 minutes.
- At 2,000 Feet: Process the jars for 30 minutes.
- At 3,000 Feet: Process the jars for 35 minutes.
- At 4,000 Feet: Process the jars for 40 minutes.
Important Tips for Success
- Use a Canning Thermometer: A canning thermometer is essential for ensuring the water bath is maintaining a rolling boil.
- Adjust Processing Time for Altitude: Always adjust the processing time based on your altitude.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Jars: Don’t crowd the jars in the water bath. Allow for adequate space between them for the water to circulate properly.
- Don’t Overtighten the Bands: Overtightening the bands can prevent the lid from sealing properly.
- Store Properly: Once the jars have cooled and sealed, store them in a cool, dark place.
The Importance of Proper Storage
Once your cherry pie filling is canned, it’s important to store it properly to ensure its longevity and quality. Store your canned cherry pie filling in a cool, dark place, ideally at room temperature. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in areas with fluctuating temperatures, as this can affect the quality of the filling.
Enjoying Your Homemade Cherry Pie Filling
Now that you’ve successfully canned your cherry pie filling, it’s time to enjoy it! Use it to create delicious pies, crumbles, cobblers, and other desserts. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt or even add it to your morning oatmeal.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I use frozen cherries for canning cherry pie filling?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cherries for canning cherry pie filling. However, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar you add based on the sweetness of the frozen cherries.
Q: How long does canned cherry pie filling last?
A: Properly canned cherry pie filling can last for up to 1 year if stored in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can I reuse the lids after canning?
A: No, it’s not recommended to reuse lids after canning. Once a lid has been used, it may not seal properly again.
Q: What should I do if a jar doesn’t seal properly?
A: If a jar doesn’t seal properly, you can refrigerate it and consume it within a few days. However, it’s not recommended to freeze it as this can affect the texture of the filling.
Q: What are some other fruits I can can using a water bath?
A: Many fruits can be canned using a water bath, including peaches, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and plums.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of water bath canning cherry pie filling, you can enjoy the sweet, delicious flavors of summer all year round!
