Mixed Berry Jam Recipe

Introduction

Mixed berry jam is a delightful way to capture the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer fruits in a jar. This recipe combines a medley of berries with sugar and lemon juice to create a sweet, tangy spread perfect for toast, desserts, or gifts.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds mixed berries
• 3 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup lemon juice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Chop your fruit so it is about all the same size to ensure even cooking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped fruit, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This helps the fruit release its juices and start breaking down.
3. Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a large pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Use a potato masher to mash the fruit to your desired consistency.
4. Step 4: Boil the jam for 20 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently. After 20 minutes, test for doneness by checking if the jam reaches 220º F or by placing a spoonful on a frozen plate, cooling for 15 seconds, then running your finger through it. If it separates and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling and test every 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and let the jam cool for about 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Transfer the jam into clean jars or airtight containers. Place in the fridge to cool completely. For longer storage, proceed with a canning process instead of refrigeration.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and faster maceration.
• Experiment with different berry combinations like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for unique tastes.
• If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender after boiling to adjust texture.
• Add a vanilla bean or a cinnamon stick during cooking for subtle flavor variations.

Storage

Store your cooled jam in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer shelf life, use a proper canning method to seal jars, which can preserve jam for up to a year. When reheating, warm gently to avoid altering texture or flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen berries can be used, but they may release more liquid and take longer to thicken. Thaw and drain excess juice if needed before starting the recipe.

How do I know when the jam is done?

The jam is done when it reaches 220º F or passes the chilled plate test—if a spoonful cooled on a frozen plate forms a gel that wrinkles when pushed, your jam is ready.

Mixed Berry Jam Recipe

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This homemade mixed berry jam combines a medley of fresh berries, sugar, and lemon juice to create a sweet and tangy preserve. Perfect for spreading on toast, swirls in yogurt, or as a delightful dessert topping, this jam balances natural fruit flavors with just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. The cooking process involves boiling and mashing to achieve a luscious, spreadable texture, finished with a simple cooling and optional canning step.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups of jam 1x
• Category: Jam and Preserves
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Jam Ingredients

• 3 pounds mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
• 3 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: Chop the mixed berries so that the pieces are roughly uniform in size to ensure even cooking and texture.
2. Macreate the Fruit: In a large bowl, combine the chopped berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally to help the fruit release its juices and begin breaking down.
3. Cook the Jam: Transfer the berry mixture to a large pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Use a potato masher to mash the fruit to your desired consistency while it heats.
4. Boil and Test for Doneness: Continue boiling the mixture for 20 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. After 20 minutes, regularly test the jam’s setting point by either measuring the temperature (aim for 220ºF) or performing the cold plate test: place a spoonful on a frozen plate or spoon, let it cool for 15 seconds, then run your finger through it to check for gel formation.
5. Cool the Jam: Once the jam reaches the correct consistency, remove the pot from heat and let it cool for about 30 minutes.
6. Store the Jam: Transfer the cooled jam into clean jars or airtight containers. Place in the refrigerator to cool completely. For long-term storage, proceed with the canning process after this step instead of refrigeration.

Notes

• Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and quicker maceration time.
• Stir frequently during boiling to prevent the jam from scorching on the pot’s bottom.
• The cold plate test is a reliable method to check jam consistency if you don’t have a candy thermometer.
• Store homemade jam in sterilized jars if planning to can for shelf stability.
• If preferred, adjust sugar amount slightly depending on the natural sweetness of your berries.

Keywords: mixed berry jam, homemade jam recipe, berry preserves, stovetop jam, fruit jam, breakfast spread, berry conserve