01 -
Place the cherries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally and mashing with a wooden spoon or potato masher, until the fruit has softened and released juices.
02 -
Add chia seeds, sugar, and lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Continue cooking for 1 minute, then remove the pan from heat.
03 -
If desired, stir in almond extract at this point.
04 -
Let the mixture cool in the pan for 10 minutes. As it cools, the jam will thicken further. Stir one more time to ensure an even consistency.
05 -
Transfer the cooled jam to a sterilized, airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve as desired.