Easy Jam canning recipes – how to make canned jam

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Homemade jam and jellies canning recipes – a complete how-to-make canned jam guide with tasty recipes for making homemade jams. Making homemade jams is such a delightful experience. It’s a great way to use up fresh fruits that are in season, and it can be a wonderful way to spend time with loved ones, too. Plus, you get to control the ingredients and choose your favorite flavor combinations. Homemade jams are also a thoughtful and tasty gift that your friends and family will surely appreciate. And, of course, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious jam that you’ve made yourself. It’s truly a labor of love, and the results are always worth it.

In this easy canning jam guide, we’re diving into the process behind the best homemade jams…it’s easier than you might think to make your own jams! Plus you get 3 easy jams – my favorite go-to jam recipe that works with any type of berry or fruit. And a tasty sugar-free blackberry jam, plus my favorite sugar-free blueberry jam! Get ready to make your own delicious jams! 

Voila!

And just like that, there is going to be homemade jam in your refrigerator.

In this canning jams guide, we’re covering

• How to make jam canned in 6 easy steps to canning and preserving 
• Jam ratio chart
• Standard jam recipe that works with all types of berries and fruit 
• The delicious sugar-free blackberry jam recipe 
• Easy sugar-free blueberry jam recipe 
• 10 delicious jam flavors you need to try
• How to pick your own berries 
• FAQs 

How to make jam canned?

Making your own homemade jam is much easier than you might imagine. It’s a simple-step-by-step process that takes little effort for long-lasting delicious jams! Once you’ve tried making your own jams you don’t want to go back. The taste of homemade jam is so much better than any store-bought jams you can get at the grocery store or local health food stores.

Equipment needed to make homemade canned jam

A large pot – you need a large pot to boil the canned jams

Canning jars – I like to make big batches of canned jams at a time, so I always use lots of canning jars.

A sieve – you need a sieve to rinse the fruit or berries gently in water. Alternatively, you can fill a large bowl with salted water and let the berries soak and rinse naturally in the water for 20-30 minutes.

6 Steps to Easy Canning and Preserving Fruit to make the best jam

Whether you’re making homemade blueberry jam with fresh blueberries or frozen blueberries, or subbing the for your favorite fruit this easy jam canning guide will work with all your favorite traditional jams. 

1. Wash and cut fruit. If you’re cleaning berries it’s best to clean them gently in a bowl of water 

2. Sanitize jars (after you wash jars, leave lids face up on a clean surface). You can wash the jars in soapy water or you can sanitize the canning jars in the oven. It’s a simple process and prevents water from collecting in the jars. To sanitize the canning jars in the oven simply place a dish towel on a baking sheet and preheat the oven to 250 Fahrenheit. Take the lids off the jars (set them aside upside down) and place them in the hot oven until you’re ready to fill them.

3. Boil. Cook fruit until it sets.

Canning guide – Easy way to make canned jam

Fill warm jars with hot jam. Place a funnel over the top of your sanitized jars, or use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to fill the jars. You’ll want to fill the jars just to the middle spiral; if you turn the jars just so, you’ll notice three lines- the middle one is where you want the jam to go. If there is too little jam then it increases the oxygen in the jar, too much jam and jam may spill over and break the seal while cooking.

Close the jars and process them in a water bath. Make sure you have a clean jar by wiping the top of the glass jars clean in case you spilled anything – it’s important to make sure you get a fully sealed jar. Twist the lid onto the glass jar. Now, get your biggest pot and fill it with water. Bring the water to a boil. Gently place your jam-filled jars in the boiling water without tilting them in the water (it’s helpful to have rubber tongs or grabbers). You need at least 2″ of water above the top of the lids. Once the water returns to a boil, leave the jars in, boiling for at least 10 minutes (20 if you’re living in a colder climate or at higher altitudes). 

Can. Once the jars have boiled, remove the jars from the water without tilting them. Set the hot jar on a counter or rack and wait for the sounds of popping lids that let you know they have been properly sealed. That’s it! Your homemade jam, if they are kept closed, will be good for 6 months in the pantry.

JAM RATIO CHART

We love this practical jam chart- it requires a scale to use but is a good option and makes creating your own jams very easy.

FRUIT              LBS.          SUGAR      LEMON JUICE

Strawberries      2 lbs.          1.25 lbs.         3.5 ounces

Blueberries        2 lbs.          1.5 lbs.           3 ounces

Rhubarb             2 lbs.          1.25 lbs.         1.5 ounces

Cherry                 2 lbs.         1.25 lbs.         3 ounces

Grape                  2 lbs.          1.25 lbs.         2 ounces

Apricot               3 lbs.           2.5 lbs.          3.5 ounces

Nectarine           3 lbs.          1.5 lbs.            5 ounces

Easy Berry Jam recipe that works with any type of berries

Here’s a recipe for a simple and delicious berry jam you can use to make blueberry jam, blackberry jam, strawberry jam, raspberry jam, or mixed berries jam: Get ready for an amazing easy blueberry jam recipe, or turn it into a gluten-free strawberry jam…or any jam of your berry choice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups berries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, or a mix of berries 
• One cup of granulated sugar
• Two tablespoons of lemon juice – you can add more if you want the jam to be extra fresh and zingy to suit your taste buds. 
• A tablespoon of fruit pectin

Berry jam recipe Instructions:

• In a large saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice.
• Cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved completely.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
• Add the fruit pectin to the mixture and stir well.
• Cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the jam reaches the desired thickness.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes.
• Pour the jam into sterilized jars by placing a funnel over the top of your sanitized jars, or use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to fill the jars. You’ll want to fill the jars just to the middle spiral; if you turn the jars just so, you’ll notice three lines- the middle one is where you want the jam to go. If there is too little jam then it increases the oxygen in the jar, too much jam and jam can spill over and break the seal.

To can the jam in a few easy steps for a longer shelf life follow these easy steps:

• Close the jars and process them in a water bath. Wipe jar rims clean in case you spilled anything to make sure you get a fully sealed jar. Twist the lid onto the glass jar. Now, get your biggest pot and fill it with water. Bring the water to a boil. Gently place your jam-filled jars in the boiling water without tilting them in the water (it’s helpful to have rubber tongs or grabbers). You need at least 2″ of water above the top of the lids, and once the water returns to a boil, leave them in, boiling for at least 10 minutes (20 if you’re living in a colder climate or at higher altitudes). 
• Once the jars have boiled, remove the jars from the water without tilting them. Set the cans on a counter or rack and wait for the sounds of popping lids that let you know they have been properly sealed. That’s it! Your jam, should they remain closed, will be good for 6 months in the pantry.
• Let the jam cool completely at room temperature, then store it in the refrigerator.
• There you have it! I hope you enjoy this delicious canned berry jam recipe. 

Here’s an easy and delicious recipe for sugar-free vegan blackberry jam:

Ingredients:

• Three Cups Blackberries
• Maple syrup (1/4 cup)
• Chia seeds (1/4 cup)
• Two tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, add the blackberries and maple syrup over medium heat.

2. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the berries until they are broken down and juicy.

3. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the chia seeds and lemon juice and stir well.

5. Let the mixture simmer for another 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken and coats the back of a spoon.

6. Remove from heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a jar.

7. Once the jam is completely cooled, seal the jar and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy sugar-free vegan blackberry jam made with natural ingredients and fewer calories!

Note: For a longer shelf life it’s a good idea to add fruit pectin and follow the steps for canning the jam.

Here is a simple recipe for sugar-free blueberry jam:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/4 cup water
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
• 3 tbsp chia seeds

Easy way to make sugar-free blueberry jam Instructions:

1. Combine the blueberries, water, and lemon juice in a small pot and bring to a boil.
2. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the blueberries are soft and the mixture thickens.
3. If you want to add a sweetener, do so now and stir until it dissolves.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the chia seeds until well combined.
5. Let the mixture cool and transfer it to a mason jar or airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Enjoy!

Note: For a longer shelf life it’s a good idea to add fruit pectin and follow the steps for canning the jam.

10 delicious different jam flavors and ingredient combinations to make the best jams

– here are 10 delicious berry jam flavors and ingredient combinations for you to try out:

1. Strawberry and basil jam with balsamic vinegar

2. Raspberry and chipotle jam with lime juice

3. Blueberry and lavender jam with honey

4. Blackberry and thyme jam with lemon zest

5. Mixed berry and vanilla bean jam

6. Strawberry and rhubarb jam with ginger

7. Raspberry and jalapeno jam with cilantro

8. Blackberry and sage jam with orange zest

9. Blueberry and mint jam with lime zest

10. Mixed berry and rosemary jam with vanilla extract

These combinations should give you plenty of ideas for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create your perfect berry jam. Enjoy!

Everything you need to know about berries, picking berries, and foraging for berries

Berries are some of the world’s most beloved and nutritious fruits. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In fact, eating berries regularly has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and potentially even reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

But with so many different types of berries out there, it can be hard to know which ones to choose and how to pick them. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular types of berries and offer some tips on how to select the best ones.

Types of Berries

There are dozens of different types of berries, but some of the most common ones include:

Blueberries: Known for their sweet, slightly tangy flavor, blueberries are a favorite in baked goods, smoothies, and just about any other dish that calls for a sweet burst of flavor. They’re also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for anyone looking to stay healthy. Wild blueberries are great for making your own homemade low sugar blueberry jam recipe.

Strawberries: With their bright red color and sweet, juicy flavor, strawberries are one of the most popular berries in the world. They’re

Raspberries: Raspberries are known for their delicate, sweet flavor and soft texture. They’re high in vitamin C and fiber, making them a great choice for anyone looking to boost their immune system and regulate digestion.

Blackberries: These berries have a slightly tart flavor and are often used in jams, pies, and other baked goods. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Cranberries: Cranberries are tart and often used in juices and sauces. They’re also high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a great choice for supporting immune health.

Elderberries: While not as common as some other types of berries, elderberries are known for their deep, rich color and distinctive flavor. They’re high in antioxidants and have been shown to have immune-boosting properties.

Goji berries: These small, bright berries have a slightly sweet flavor and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine. They’re high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and have been shown to potentially improve immune function and support brain health.

How to Pick Berries

Now that we’ve covered some of the most common types of berries, let’s talk about how to pick them.

Whether you’re picking berries at a local farm or the grocery store, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Look for berries that are plump and firm: Whether you’re picking strawberries, raspberries, or another type of berry, you want to look for ones that are plump, firm, and free of blemishes or soft spots. Berries that are too ripe or have been sitting around for too long may be mushy or moldy.

Check the color: Different types of berries have different colors when they’re ripe, so it’s important to know what to look for. For example, blueberries should be a deep blue color, while strawberries should be red all the way to the stem. If the berries are still green or unripe-looking, they may not be ready to pick yet.

Smell them: Berries should have a sweet, fruity aroma when they’re ripe. If they don’t smell like anything at all or if they have a sour or unpleasant smell, they may not be fresh.

Be gentle: Berries are delicate fruits, so it’s important to handle them with care. Don’t squeeze or crush them when you’re picking them, as this can cause them to become bruised and spoil more quickly. Instead, use a gentle touch and try to only handle the berries by their stems.

Important berry picking steps

Check for ripeness frequently: Berries can ripen quickly, so it’s important to check them frequently if you’re picking them over a few days. If you notice any berries that are starting to spoil or go bad, remove them from the rest of the batch so they don’t spread their spoilage to the other berries.

Store them properly: Once you’ve picked your berries, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh as long as possible. Most berries should be stored in the refrigerator in a loosely covered container or a plastic bag with some holes poked in it. This will help to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause the berries to spoil more quickly.

In conclusion, berries are delicious and nutritious fruit that come in many different varieties. Whether you’re picking them at a local farm or the grocery store, it’s important to look for berries that are plump, firm, and free of blemishes or soft spots. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh, delicious berries all season long.

Berries are also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Here are some ideas for how to use them:

Smoothies: Berries are a great addition to smoothies, adding natural sweetness and a vibrant color. Try blending strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with some yogurt, milk, and honey for a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack.

Salads: Berries can add a burst of flavor and color to salads. Try adding sliced strawberries or raspberries to a spinach salad with some goat cheese and almonds.

Desserts: Berries make a great addition to desserts like pies, tarts, and cakes. Try making a mixed berry pie with a flaky crust and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Jams and sauces: Berries can be cooked down into jams and sauces, which can be used as a topping for toast, pancakes, or ice cream. Try making a homemade strawberry jam or a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.

Snacks: Berries make a great healthy snack on their own. Try packing a container of fresh berries for an on-the-go snack or add them to a trail mix with nuts and seeds.

What’s great about berries

In addition to being delicious, berries are also incredibly healthy. They’re high in antioxidants, which help to neutralize free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation. They’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium.

Studies have shown that eating berries regularly may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. They may also have benefits for brain health, with some studies suggesting that they can improve memory and cognitive function.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a sweet and healthy treat, look no further than berries! With their delicious flavor, vibrant color, and numerous health benefits, they’re a great addition to any diet. By following these tips for picking and storing berries, you’ll be able to enjoy them at their best all season long. So why not head to your local grocery store or farmer’s market and pick up a pint of your favorite berries today?

Tips for picking berries

If you have the opportunity, it’s always best to choose locally grown and organic berries. Not only are they fresher and more flavorful, but they also have a lower impact on the environment and are often grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals.

If you’re interested in picking your own berries, consider visiting a local farm or orchard. Not only is it a fun family activity, but it also allows you to support local farmers and enjoy the freshest berries possible.

In addition, don’t be afraid to try different types of berries! While strawberries and blueberries are certainly delicious, there are many other types of berries out there that are worth exploring. From tart cranberries to sweet elderberries, each type of berry has its own unique flavor and nutritional benefits.

So next time you’re at the store or farmer’s market, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and flavor of these small but mighty fruits. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or incorporating them into a meal or dessert, berries are sure to add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your day.

How to eat Jams

There are so many tasty ways to serve jam.

Add the jam to your yogurt as a topping – try my homemade vegan yogurt recipe here

Slather on bread – grab my favorite homemade breads, breakfast buns, deluxe flaxseed buns, cardamon buns

FAQs – all your canning jam questions answered

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