Blackberry Jam Recipe

Homemade Blackberry Jam is sweet, rich, and bursting with fresh berry flavor. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be enjoyed on toast, biscuits, pancakes, yogurt, or desserts.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 2 cups (1 pint) jam

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh blackberries (about 500 g)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water (if needed)

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Potato masher or fork
• Wooden spoon
• Sterilized glass jars with lids

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Blackberries

1. Wash the blackberries thoroughly under cold water.
2. Remove any stems, leaves, or damaged berries.
3. Drain well.

Step 2: Crush the Berries

1. Place the blackberries in a large saucepan.
2. Lightly mash them using a potato masher or fork to release their juices.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Lemon

1. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using).
2. Mix until the berries are evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook the Jam

1. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir frequently until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4. Continue cooking for 20–25 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
5. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

Step 5: Test for Doneness

Use the cold plate test:

1. Place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes.
2. Drop a spoonful of jam onto the cold plate.
3. Wait 30 seconds and push it gently with your finger.
4. If the surface wrinkles, the jam is ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.

Step 6: Fill the Jars

1. Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch (6 mm) headspace.
2. Wipe the jar rims clean.
3. Seal with lids.

Step 7: Cool and Store

1. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature.
2. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place.
3. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips for Perfect Blackberry Jam

• For seedless jam, press the cooked berries through a fine-mesh sieve before filling jars.
• Use ripe, flavorful blackberries for the best taste.
• Do not overcook, as the jam will thicken further while cooling.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 3 weeks
• Freezer: Up to 6 months
• Properly canned jars: Up to 1 year

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on toast, muffins, or scones
• Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
• Use as a cake filling
• Spoon over cheesecake or ice cream
• Pair with cheese and crackers

Nutrition (Approximate Per Tablespoon)

• Calories: 45
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Sugar: 11 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g

This Blackberry Jam is wonderfully fruity, naturally vibrant, and perfect for preserving the fresh taste of blackberries all year round.

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