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๐ Perfect Homemade Jam โ A Sweet Tradition in Every Jar
Thereโs something deeply satisfying about spooning bright, fruity jam from a jar you made yourself. Whether youโre spreading it on warm toast, layering it in cakes, or gifting it to someone you love, homemade jam captures the taste of summer and preserves it for the months ahead.
This classic recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for beginners and seasoned canners alike.๐ Ingredients (Yields about 6โ7 half-pint jars):
- 4 cups crushed fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, peaches, or a mix)
- 1 box (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell or Ball)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (for acidity and flavor)
- 5โ6 cups granulated sugar (depending on fruit and desired sweetness)
๐ Pro Tip: Use fully ripe fruit for the best flavor. Underripe fruit may lead to poor texture or less sweetness.
๐ ๏ธ Supplies:
- Water bath canner
- 6โ7 sterilized half-pint jars with lids and rings
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
- Ladle
- Paper towels
- Towel for cooling jars
๐ฉโ๐ณ Instructions:
1. Prepare Jars & Canner
- Wash jars and keep them hot (in hot water or dishwasher).
- Simmer lids in water; do not boil.
- Fill water bath canner with enough water to cover jars by at least 1 inch and begin heating.
2. Make the Jam
- In a large pot, combine crushed fruit and lemon juice.
- Stir in pectin and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
- Add sugar all at once and return to a full, hard boil. Boil exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and skim off foam, if needed.
3. Fill the Jars
- Using a funnel, ladle hot jam into jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Wipe rims with a damp cloth. Apply lids and tighten bands fingertip-tight.
๐ซ Water Bath Canning:
- Place jars in the canner, ensuring theyโre fully submerged.
- Bring water to a full boil and process for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude).
- Turn off heat and let jars sit in water for 5 minutes before removing.
4. Cool & Store
- Set jars on a towel and let them cool for 12โ24 hours.
- Check seals. Label and store in a cool, dark place.
- Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used first.
๐ฅ Serving Ideas:
- Spread on toast, scones, or biscuits
- Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
- Use as a cake filling or cookie glaze
- Give as heartfelt gifts in decorated jars
๐ฌ Final Thoughts
Homemade jam is more than a sweet treat โ itโs a way to capture memories, preserve your garden harvest, and slow down with purpose. Once you try it, youโll never want to go back to store-bought.
๐ Save this recipe and start a sweet new tradition, one jar at a time.
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