Olivia Carter
If you love the sweet, tangy taste of black raspberries, then you’re in for a treat with this homemade black raspberry freezer jam recipe. Whether you have a bumper crop of black raspberries from your garden or you just stumbled upon them at the farmers market, this freezer jam is the perfect way to preserve their delicious flavor.
Making black raspberry freezer jam is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and a little bit of time. The combination of ripe black raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin creates a jam that is bursting with fruity flavor and spreads easily on toast, muffins, or even ice cream.
One of the great things about this recipe is that it doesn’t require any special canning equipment or techniques. Instead, the jam is stored in the freezer, which means you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round. Plus, the beautiful deep purple color of the black raspberries makes this jam a visually stunning addition to your pantry.
Gather Ingredients and Supplies
Before starting the process of making black raspberry freezer jam, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and supplies. Here is a list of what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of black raspberries
- 4 cups of sugar
- 1 package of powdered fruit pectin
- 1 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
Supplies:
- Large mixing bowl
- Potato masher or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jam jars
- Labels and marker
- Freezer-safe containers
- Plastic wrap or wax paper
- Large spoon or ladle
- Canning funnel (optional)
Make sure you have all these ingredients and supplies ready before you begin to ensure a smooth and efficient jam-making process.
Prepare Black Raspberries
Before you begin making black raspberry freezer jam, you need to prepare the black raspberries. Follow these steps:
- Start by gently rinsing the black raspberries under cool running water. Make sure to remove any leaves, stems, or debris that may be attached to the berries.
- Once the black raspberries are clean, spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to dry. Pat them gently with another towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Next, inspect the black raspberries and discard any berries that are overripe, bruised, or damaged. Only use the ones that are plump, firm, and in good condition.
- If desired, you can lightly crush some of the black raspberries to release their natural juices. This step is optional and can help enhance the flavor of the jam.
- Measure the required amount of black raspberries according to your recipe. Be precise with the measurements to ensure the correct balance of flavors in the finished jam.
By properly preparing the black raspberries, you’ll set yourself up for success in making delicious and flavorful black raspberry freezer jam.
Create the Jam Mixture
To start making the black raspberry freezer jam, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of black raspberries
- 4 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 package of powdered fruit pectin
- 1 cup of water
Wash the black raspberries thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Place the raspberries in a large bowl and use a potato masher or a fork to gently break them up. It’s okay if there are some small chunks remaining.
In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and powdered fruit pectin. Stir until well combined.
In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the sugar and pectin mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to ensure the ingredients are fully dissolved.
Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the hot mixture over the mashed black raspberries. Stir everything together until well combined and the sugar is completely dissolved.
Optional Step: Adding Flavor
If desired, you can enhance the flavor of your black raspberry jam by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This will give the jam a tangy twist.
Let the jam mixture sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. This consistency is ideal for spreading on toast or using as a topping.
Once the jam has thickened, it’s ready to be transferred into containers for freezing. Refer to the instructions below for proper storage and freezing techniques.
Cook the Jam
Once the raspberry mixture is crushed and ready, it’s time to cook the jam. Pour the raspberry mixture into a large pot and set it over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
Once the mixture is boiling, add the pectin and continue stirring until it is completely dissolved. This will help thicken the jam. Let the mixture continue to boil for one minute.
Next, add the sugar to the pot and stir until it is fully dissolved. Continue to cook the jam over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 220°F (105°C). This temperature is crucial for the jam to set properly, so it’s important to use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.
As the jam cooks, you may notice it thickening and becoming glossy. This is a good sign that it’s almost ready. Additionally, you can perform a “gel test” by spooning a small amount of jam onto a chilled plate and placing it in the freezer for a minute. If the jam wrinkles when you push it gently with your finger, it is ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and repeat the gel test until desired consistency is reached.
Once the jam is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface. Spoon the jam into clean jars, leaving a 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) headspace at the top of each jar. Immediately cover the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to the freezer.
Now that the jam is cooked and properly stored, it’s ready to be enjoyed whenever you want a taste of sweet and tangy black raspberry goodness!
Fill the Jars and Freeze
Once your raspberry jam has thickened and cooled, it’s time to fill the jars. Make sure you have clean, sterilized jars ready to go.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the jam into each jar, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. This will allow room for expansion during freezing.
After filling the jars, wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth or paper towel to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten them securely.
Label each jar with the date and contents, and then transfer them to the freezer. It’s best to lay the jars on their sides to prevent air pockets from forming, which could affect the quality of the jam.
Leave the jars in the freezer for at least 24 hours to ensure that the jam is completely frozen. Once frozen, your black raspberry freezer jam can be stored in the freezer for up to one year.
When you’re ready to use the jam, simply remove a jar from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator. It will be ready to enjoy within a few hours.
Now that you know how to make black raspberry freezer jam and properly store it, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round!
Serve and Enjoy
Once your black raspberry freezer jam is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious treat! Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy your homemade jam:
1. Spread it on Toast or Scones
Take a slice of fresh bread or a warm scone and spread a generous amount of the black raspberry freezer jam on top. The sweetness and tanginess of the jam will perfectly complement the bread, creating a delightful breakfast or snack option.
2. Mix it into Yogurt
If you love yogurt, try mixing a spoonful or two of the black raspberry freezer jam into a bowl of plain or vanilla yogurt. Not only will it add a burst of fruity flavor, but it will also give your yogurt a beautiful, vibrant color.
Additionally, you can layer the jam and yogurt in a glass or jar to create a visually appealing and delicious parfait. Top it off with some granola or fresh berries for added texture and taste.
Pro tip: For a more indulgent treat, try using Greek yogurt for its creamy texture.
3. Pair it with Cheese
If you’re a fan of cheese platters, black raspberry freezer jam can be a fantastic addition. Its sweet and tart flavors pair wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, such as brie, camembert, or goat cheese.
Spread a thin layer of the jam on top of a cracker or slice of baguette, and then add a slice of cheese on top. The combination of flavors and textures will create a unique and delicious appetizer.
Regardless of how you choose to enjoy your black raspberry freezer jam, savor every spoonful and share it with your loved ones. Happy jamming!
FAQ
Can I use other types of berries instead of black raspberries?
Yes, you can use other types of berries instead of black raspberries. Some popular alternatives include red raspberries, strawberries, or even a mix of different berries.
Is it necessary to use powdered fruit pectin?
Yes, powdered fruit pectin is necessary for this recipe. It helps to thicken and set the jam properly. If you don’t have powdered fruit pectin, you can usually find it at your local grocery store or online.
How long can I store black raspberry freezer jam?
Black raspberry freezer jam can be stored in the freezer for up to one year. Once opened, it should be consumed within a month and kept refrigerated.
