Description
This recipe guides you through making a classic homemade blackberry jam. The rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavor of blackberries is preserved beautifully in this simple jam. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a gift!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh blackberries
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon unsalted butter (optional, to reduce foam)
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackberries: Rinse the blackberries gently and remove any stems or leaves.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Add the butter, if using.
- Cook the Jam: Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the berries start to release their juices.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Test for Doneness: After about 10-15 minutes of boiling, test for doneness. Place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes. Drop a small spoonful of jam onto the cold plate. Let it cool for a moment and then push it with your finger. If the jam wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready. If it runs, continue boiling for a few more minutes and test again.
- Skim the Foam: During the boiling process, skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam with a spoon.
- Jar the Jam: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Seal and Process (Optional, for longer storage): Wipe the rims of the jars clean. Place lids and rings on the jars and tighten. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Let the jars cool completely. Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid; it should not flex. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year (if processed) or in the refrigerator for up to a month (if not processed).
Notes
- For a smoother jam, you can use a potato masher or immersion blender to lightly crush the berries before cooking.
- Sterilize jars and lids before use to ensure the jam’s longevity.
- If you don’t have a water bath, store the jam in the refrigerator and consume it within a month.
- Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of your blackberries. Taste the mixture and add more or less sugar as needed.
- Prep Time: PT20M
- Cook Time: PT30M
- Category: Jams & Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g