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Canning Sweet Blueberry Jam

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This blueberry jam recipe is simple, reliable, and packed with flavor. The natural tartness of the berries balances the sweetness, giving you a rich, fruity jam that tastes like summer in a jar. With just a handful of ingredients and a water bath canning process, you’ll have shelf-stable jars of jam ready to enjoy all year long—or to share as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 4 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 1 box powdered pectin (about 1.75 oz)
  • 1/2 tsp of butter

Instructions

  • In a large pot, mash the blueberries with a potato masher. You can leave them slightly chunky or smooth, depending on your preference.
  • Stir in the lemon juice, pectin, and butter.
  • Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
  • Add all the sugar at once, stirring until dissolved. Return the mixture to a rolling boil and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
  • With your funnel, quickly ladle the hot jam into prepared jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe rims clean with either water or vinegar and a paper towel.
  • Place the lids on top, and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight. Do not over-tighten.
  • Place jars in a boiling water canner. Make sure they’re covered by at least 1–2 inches of water—process for 10 minutes. After the water has come to a boil, start your 10-minute timer.
  • After the 10 minutes are up, let it sit for a minute. Remove the lid and make sure it is pointed away from you. You don’t want hot steam in your face.
  • With your jar lifter, lift out the bottles and put them on a kitchen towel. 

Notes

Why use butter? When boiling, a foam may develop. This will need to be skimmed off. The use of butter keeps this foam from forming or, at least, not as much foam.  If you do have foam, skim the foam.

What is a rolling boil? A rolling boil is when the jam reaches a full, vigorous boil that cannot be stirred down.