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–+ servings
Earth Cherry Preserves
This old-fashioned Earth Cherry Preserves recipe captures the rich, tangy sweetness of ground cherries (also called husk cherries or cape gooseberries) in a luscious, thick jam-like preserve. The method involves peeling off the outer husks, resting the fruit overnight in sugar to draw out natural juices, and then slowly cooking until it reaches the perfect thickened consistency. Stored in sterilized jars, these preserves deliver a golden, sweet-tart spread that pairs beautifully with toast, pastries, or cheese boards.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 12 hours
Total Time 13 hours 30 minutes
Course Preserves
Cuisine American
Servings 7 pints
Calories 40 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 5 lbs earth cherries (husk cherries, cape gooseberries)
  • 2 lbs white sugar

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

  • Remove the husks from the earth cherries.
  • Peel off any remaining outer skins.

Step 2: Chop and Combine

  • Chop about 5 lbs of cleaned cherries with a knife.
  • Mix with 2 lbs white sugar in a large bowl.

Step 3: Rest Overnight

  • Let the mixture stand for ½ day or overnight, allowing the sugar to dissolve and draw out natural juices.

Step 4: Cook the Preserves

  • The next morning, stir well — the sugar should be fully dissolved.
  • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened to a jam-like consistency.

Step 5: Fill and Seal Jars

  • Ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars.
  • Seal tightly, turn jars upside down, and allow to cool fully.

Tips

  • Remove outer husks/skins completely before chopping to avoid bitterness.
  • Allow the fruit and sugar mixture to stand at least half a day so juices release fully.
  • Stir occasionally during maceration so sugar dissolves evenly.
  • Add lemon juice or sliced lemons for brighter flavor and better gelling (noted on card).
  • Cook gently and avoid scorching by stirring frequently.
  • Test doneness by placing a small amount on a chilled plate to see if it wrinkles when pushed.
  • Use sterilized, hot jars and proper canning practices for safe storage.
  • For softer set, cook less; for firmer set, cook longer until thick (as written on card).
  • Works well with ground cherries / husk cherries / Cape gooseberries (aka “earth cherries”).

Nutrition

Calories: 40kcalCarbohydrates: 10gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 36mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword canning, earth cherry, ground cherries, heirloom recipe, homemade, jam, preserves, vintage recipe
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