Sweet Cherries in Honey-Vanilla Syrup

 

2 lb. sweet red cherries, pitted

¾ C. honey

¾ C. granulated sugar

5 ¾ C. water

½ vanilla bean

 

Combine honey, sugar, and water in a large pot or Dutch oven. Stir over low heat until sugar and honey have dissolved. Add cherries and vanilla bean. Cook over medium-low heat until cherries are warmed through. Remove vanilla bean. Ladle hot cherries into jars and cover with syrup, leaving ½ inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe jar rims with a damp paper towel. Top with two-piece lids and rings, and process in a water bath for 10 minutes.