Description
This homemade Blackberry Jam recipe is a simple, delicious way to preserve the fresh, vibrant flavor of summer blackberries. Made with fresh berries, sugar, lemon juice, and optional fruit pectin for thickness, this stovetop jam is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or gifting. Easy to make in small batches, it can be customized for sweetness and texture to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh blackberries
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fruit pectin (optional, for thicker jam)
Instructions
- Prepare the Berries: Rinse the blackberries thoroughly and remove any stems to ensure a clean jam. Place the berries in a large saucepan and lightly mash them with a potato masher or fork to release their natural juices, creating the base for your jam.
- Mix Ingredients and Dissolve Sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice into the mashed berries. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the sugar to begin dissolving and blend flavors.
- Boil the Jam Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. If you are using fruit pectin for a thicker consistency, add it now. Continue boiling the jam for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring constantly and skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the jam is ready, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. Push the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles and stays firm, the jam has reached the perfect consistency.
- Jar and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars immediately, sealing tightly. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for short-term use or process in a water bath for long-term preservation.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain out the seeds through a fine mesh sieve before adding the sugar.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference, especially if your berries are more or less ripe.
- This recipe can be doubled, but cooking times may be slightly longer to reach the right consistency.
