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20-Minute Berry Jam

Elaine Gordon
Ah, summer! The sun shines brightly, the days are long, and fresh berries burst with juicy sweetness. If you’re like me, you’ve probably found yourself with more berries than you know what to do with.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 60
Calories 50 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan, Cup

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 6 cups mixed fresh berries
  • 2 tablespoons bottled lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Berries

  • Start by washing your fresh berries thoroughly. If you’re using strawberries, hull and slice them into smaller pieces for easy mashing. For raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, they’re good to go as is.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 6 cups of berries, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir gently until the sugar begins to dissolve, and the berries release their juices—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

  • Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll want to keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Once it reaches a boil, let it bubble away for about 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect jammy texture—keep an eye on it!

Step 4: Test the Consistency

  • After about 10 minutes, you should check the consistency. Take a spoonful of jam and let it cool slightly. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape without running back together, you’ve hit the jackpot!

Step 5: Add Flavors

  • At this point, if you’re using vanilla extract and cinnamon, stir them in. Give everything a good mix to incorporate those delightful layers of flavor.

Step 6: Jar it Up

  • Once the jam has reached your desired consistency, pour it into clean, sterilized jars. Leave a little space at the top, and seal them tightly. Let them cool completely before storing them in the fridge.

Notes

Use Ripe Berries: The sweeter, the better! Ripe berries yield a more flavorful jam.
Adjust the Sugar: If the berries are particularly sweet, reduce the sugar. The jam will still set just fine.
Check for Gelling: Every berry behaves differently, so feel free to experiment with pectin if you’re unsure about the texture.
Feel Free to Experiment: Mix and match different berries. You can create a unique blend every time!
Store Properly: Jars can last in the fridge for about two weeks—but trust me, they won't last that long!

Nutrition

Calories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 13gSugar: 12g
Keyword 20-Minute Berry Jam
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