Blackberry Jam
Sweet and tangy blackberry jam offers a vibrant burst of berry flavor, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts. Its rich aroma and natural sweetness make it a delightful treat for breakfast or snacks, suitable for those who enjoy homemade preserves with fresh fruit goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the blackberries and place them in a kettle with the sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil rapidly, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Remove the kettle from heat and skim the foam from the top.
- Stir and skim the mixture alternately for 5 minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into hot jars and seal with hot lids.
- Process in a hot water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jam, consider using a food mill to puree the blackberries before cooking. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by one cup, but ensure the jam still reaches the proper consistency. You can also experiment with adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. For variations, try mixing in some fresh basil or mint for a unique flavor twist that pairs beautifully with Mint Tea.
Serving Suggestions
Blackberry jam is delicious spread on toast, biscuits, or scones, making it a perfect addition to a breakfast spread alongside Quick Cinnamon Nut Coffee Cake. It can also be used as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. For an elegant touch, serve it with cheese and crackers during a gathering, complementing the flavors of savory dishes like Leslie's Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of blackberry jam in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and consume within three weeks. To reheat, simply warm a spoonful in the microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches your desired consistency, perfect for spreading on toast or drizzling over desserts.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackberry Jam contains roughly 446 calories, with 8g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blackberries for this jam?
Yes, frozen blackberries work well for making jam. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before using. This can help maintain the desired consistency and flavor in your jam.
What if my jam doesn't thicken?
If your jam remains runny after cooking, it may need additional cooking time. Return it to the heat and boil it for a few more minutes while stirring constantly. Alternatively, you can add a commercial pectin to help thicken it.
How can I make this jam lower in sugar?
To reduce the sugar content, use a fruit sweetener or a sugar substitute that is suitable for canning. Remember that cutting down on sugar may alter the texture and shelf life, so it's essential to follow guidelines for safe canning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).