Blueberry-Cherry Jam Recipe π
Overview
Blueberry-Cherry Jam is a delightful blend of sweet blueberries and cherries, creating a burst of fruity goodness in every spoonful. This recipe, originally from MasterCook at Kraft General Foods, has been adapted to use sweet cherries, resulting in a wonderfully balanced jam that’s perfect for spreading on toast, topping yogurt, or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | Blueberries |
| 1 1/2 cups | Cherries, pitted and finely chopped (about 3 cups whole) |
| 4 cups | Sugar |
| 1 pouch | Pectin |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fruit:
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- Next, pit the cherries and finely chop them. Measure out 1 1/2 cups of the chopped cherries. It usually takes about 3 cups of whole cherries to get this amount.
-
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Combine and Cook:
- In an 8-quart pot, mix together the crushed blueberries and the chopped cherries.
- Sprinkle the pectin over the fruit mixture, stirring to combine evenly.
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Boil the Jam:
- Place the pot over high heat and bring the fruit and pectin mixture to a full rolling boil.
- Once boiling, add in the sugar, stirring constantly to dissolve it into the fruit.
- Allow the mixture to return to a full boil. Let it boil hard for 1 minute, continuing to stir constantly to prevent sticking.
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Jar and Process:
- Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean, hot half-pint jars, leaving about 1/4-inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims and threads of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a proper seal.
- Top each jar with a two-piece lid, screwing on the bands just until fingertip-tight.
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Processing the Jars:
- Place the filled jars into a hot water bath canner, ensuring they are covered with at least 1-2 inches of water.
- Bring the water to a gentle boil and process the jars for 10 minutes.
- After processing, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop to cool.
- As the jars cool, you may hear the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing, indicating a successful canning process.
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Enjoy and Share:
- Once the jars have cooled completely, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t flex, it’s sealed.
- Label your jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. The jam will continue to set as it cools.
- Enjoy your homemade Blueberry-Cherry Jam on toast, biscuits, or as a sweet addition to your favorite recipes.
- Share the love by gifting jars to friends and family, spreading the joy of homemade goodness!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 682
- Total Fat: 0.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 2.2mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 175.9g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.4g
- Sugars: 171.5g
- Protein: 0.9g
Tips and Tricks:
- Sweet or Sour Cherries: While the original recipe calls for sour cherries, feel free to use sweet cherries if that’s what you have on hand. The jam will still turn out wonderfully.
- Testing for Doneness: To check if your jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done!
- Customize Your Jam: Add a splash of lemon juice for a touch of brightness, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. Get creative with your flavor combinations!
Make-Ahead and Storage:
- Canning Safety: Ensure proper canning procedures are followed, including sterilizing jars and processing times, for safe and shelf-stable jam.
- Long-Term Storage: Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast Bliss: Spread Blueberry-Cherry Jam on warm buttered toast or fluffy pancakes for a delicious breakfast treat.
- Cheese Pairings: Pair this jam with a creamy brie or tangy goat cheese for an elegant appetizer or cheese board addition.
- Dessert Delights: Use the jam as a filling for thumbprint cookies, swirl into yogurt, or layer between cake for a fruity dessert twist.
Final Thoughts:
Blueberry-Cherry Jam is a simple yet satisfying recipe that captures the essence of summer in a jar. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to the world of homemade jams, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, it’s a taste of sunshine to brighten any day. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and savor the joy of homemade goodness! ππ₯
