Chokecherry Syrup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

3 cups chokecherry juice (see first step)
6 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Preparation

Wash chokecherries, place in a large kettle, barely cover with water and cook, covered, for about 30 minutes till the cherries are soft.
Mash gently and strain the chokecherry juice through a sieve or cheesecloth.
Pour 3 cups juice into a large kettle; stir in the sugar.
Cook on high, stirring constantly.
Boil hard for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and skim foam.
Add extract if using (almond extract gives a stronger cherry taste).
To can: Pour hot syrup into sterilized hot jars to within 1/8th inch from top.