3 c. red cherries, pitted
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 c. water
1/4 c. powdered pectin
3 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. almond extract

Combine cherries, lemon juice, water and pectin in a 3 quart bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and bring to a boil in the microwave on High (approximately 8 minutes). Remove from the oven and stir in the remaining ingredients. Cover, place in oven and return to a boil on high (approximately 6 minutes). Stir and return to microwave oven uncovered for 3 minutes; repeat for another 3 minutes or until preserves sheet from spoon. Yield about 3 half pints.