Wash the cherries. Stem and pit them.

Put the clearjel in a very large stock pot and mix with the sugar and ground cinnamon. Add the water, and food coloring (if using).

Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

Add lemon juice and cook an additional minute.

Fold in the cherries carefully, all at once, just until evenly coated.

Fill hot mixture into hot jars.

Ladle into quart sized jars, leaving a 1/2 inch headspace.

Wipe jar rims. Put lids on.

Process in water bath for at least 15 minutes. Increase time as needed for your altitude.