Description
This homemade blackberry jam recipe offers a deliciously sweet and tangy fruit spread, perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on yogurt, or using in your favorite desserts. Made with fresh or frozen blackberries, sugar, and a hint of lemon, this jam is easy to make on the stovetop and can be customized with or without pectin for your preferred set and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (optional, for quicker set)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the blackberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Add the lemon zest and fruit pectin if using. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the berries start to break down, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Mash the Berries: Use a potato masher or fork to mash the blackberries to your desired consistency, whether you prefer chunky or smoother jam.
- Boil and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then cook for 15 to 20 minutes while stirring frequently. This helps the jam thicken properly. If using fruit pectin, follow the package instructions regarding boil time to ensure proper setting.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the jam is ready, spoon a small amount onto a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Push the jam gently; if it wrinkles on the surface, it has reached the correct consistency.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly. Pour the warm jam into sterilized jars, seal them tightly, and let the jars cool completely. Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks, or freeze it for longer preservation.
Notes
- For a seedless jam, strain the blackberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve before cooking.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness or tartness of your berries.
- Using lemon zest adds extra citrus flavor but is optional.
- Follow fruit pectin package instructions closely if using for best results.
- Ensure jars are sterilized to maintain freshness and safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
