Elderberry Jam
Elderberry Jam offers a rich, tangy flavor with natural sweetness, perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts. Ideal for fruit lovers and seasonal preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed elderberries, sugar, and vinegar in a large pot.
- Bring slowly to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook rapidly until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
- Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headroom, and seal.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of lemon juice to your elderberry jam. If you don't have elderberries, blackberries or blueberries can be used as substitutes. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized by boiling them before use, and always leave headspace to allow for expansion during processing.
Serving Suggestions
Elderberry jam is delightful on toast or pancakes and pairs beautifully with Chocolate Dipped Apricots for a sweet treat. Use it as a filling for pastries or as a topping for yogurt and cheesecake. It also makes a great addition to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and cured meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store your sealed elderberry jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to six months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elderberry Jam contains roughly 1021 calories, with 13g protein, 225g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 23g 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 fresh elderberries instead of crushed?
Yes, fresh elderberries can be used, but they need to be thoroughly crushed to release their juices. Make sure to measure by volume after crushing to maintain the balance of ingredients.
What can I do if my jam doesn't thicken?
If your jam doesn't thicken, it may need more cooking time. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also add a bit of pectin to help it set if necessary.
Is elderberry jam safe for children?
Yes, elderberry jam is safe for children, but ensure it is fully cooked to eliminate any potential risks from raw elderberries. If you're concerned about sugar content, consider reducing the amount of sugar used in the recipe.
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).