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Classic Blueberry Jam Recipe

Close-up of glistening homemade blueberry jam in a blue and white bowl, with a spoon resting inside.
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A simple, small-batch blueberry jam recipe perfect for canning. This low-sugar version highlights the natural flavor of blueberries, with optional vanilla and lemon twists.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste for low-sugar option)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, to reduce foam)

Instructions

  1. Wash blueberries if using fresh. If using frozen, do not thaw.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
  3. Stir well to combine.
  4. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
  5. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens. This can take 20-40 minutes, depending on how thick you like your jam.
  6. Test for set: Place a small plate in the freezer. Spoon a little jam onto the cold plate. Wait 30 seconds, then push the jam with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.
  7. If using, stir in lemon zest and vanilla extract during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  8. If using, stir in the butter to reduce foam.
  9. Skim off any foam from the surface.
  10. Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
  11. Wipe jar rims clean and screw on lids.
  12. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
  13. Remove jars from the canner and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
  14. Check seals after 12-24 hours.

Notes

  • For a no-pectin jam, cook until thickened. The natural pectin in blueberries will help it set.
  • For a lower sugar jam, reduce the sugar to 1 cup or to your preference, but be aware it may result in a softer set.
  • This recipe makes approximately 3-4 half-pint jars.
  • Sterilize your jars and lids before filling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/blueberry-jam-recipe/