Making and Canning Cherry Blueberry Jam at Home

Making your own jam at home is not just a culinary task; it's an enjoyable experience that connects you to the seasons and lets you control what goes into your food. If you're looking for a sweet treat that combines the best of summer fruits, cherry blueberry jam is a wonderful choice. The rich, sweet flavor of blueberries paired with the tangy notes of cherries creates a spread that is perfect for toast, pancakes, and even pastries. Let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making and canning your very own cherry blueberry jam!

Why Cherry Blueberry Jam?

Cherry blueberry jam stands out for several reasons. These berries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. For instance:

• Antioxidants: Both fruits are rich in antioxidants, which have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

• Vitamins: A serving of cherries provides about 16% of your daily vitamin C needs, while blueberries contribute nearly 25%.

  
  

This jam is a fantastic way to enjoy these benefits. It makes a thoughtful gift, a delicious breakfast addition, or a sweet treat you can enjoy any time.

Gather Your Ingredients

To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of cherries (pitted and mashed)

• 2 pounds of blueberries (mashed)

• 5 cup of granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup lemon juice

• 6 tablespoons classic pectin (commonly available in the canning aisle)

• 1/2 teaspoon of butter (optional but it reduces the foaming)

  
  

Select ripe, juicy fruits for the best flavor.

Equipment You Will Need

For a smooth jam-making experience, gather the right equipment:

• A large pot

• A ladle

• A funnel (to fill jars without making a mess)

• Half pint canning jars with lids (make sure they’re sterilized)

• A jar lifter (for safely handling hot jars)

  
  

Preparing the Fruits

Start by washing your cherries and blueberries well.

• For the cherries, remove the pits and blend or mash them into small pieces. A cherry pitter can be a huge time saver.

  

• For the blueberries, simply rinse them under cool water and blend or mash them as well.

  
  

After prepping, your fruits are ready to be cooked.

Cooking the Jam

In a large pot, combine the cherries, blueberries, pectin, butter, and lemon juice.

Next, place the pot over medium heat and stir regularly. Once the mixture starts boiling, it’s time to add the sugar.

Bring it back to a boil and set a 1 minute timer. Stir for the whole minute to avoid scorching the jam.

Canning Process

Now it’s time to can your cherry blueberry jam:

1. Fill the Jars: Using the funnel, ladle hot jam into the jars, leaving a quarter-inch space at the top.

2. Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on top and screw on the metal bands until they are fingertip tight.

   (For quality, American made Superb canning lids and jars follow this link and use the coupon code WP20 to get 20% off your purchase.) 

3. Process in a Water Bath: Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if at sea level. This creates a vacuum seal that keeps your jam fresh for months. (Adjust the processing time if you are above 1000 feet.)

   

4. Cool Down: After processing, allow to cool in the water bath with the heat off and the lid removed for 5 minutes. Use the jar lifter to remove the jars and set them on a heat resistant surface about 1-2 inches apart. Let them cool for 24 hours.

   
   

Storage Tips

Once your jam has cooled, check if each jar has sealed properly by pressing down in the center of the lid. If it pops back, it hasn’t sealed correctly, so refrigerate that jar and use it within a few weeks.

If it does have a good seal, remove the ring and wash the jars with warm soapy water.

Store your sealed jars in a cool, dry, dark location such as a pantry or cupboard. Properly canned cherry blueberry jam can last for up to 3 years.

Enjoying Your Jam

Now that your cherry blueberry jam is ready, the real fun begins! Here are several tasty ways to enjoy it:

• Spread it on warm toast or English muffins for a delightful breakfast.

• Use it as a filling for pastries, cakes, or thumbprint cookies.

• Stir it into yogurt or oatmeal to add a touch of natural sweetness.

• Create homemade gift baskets for friends and family with jars of your jam included for special occasions.

  
  

Embrace this Culinary Journey

Making and canning cherry blueberry jam is more than just preserving fruit; it's about celebrating the delicious flavors of summer and making something special. The unique sweet and tart combination is sure to delight anyone who tries it. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and embark on this delightful jam-making journey. Your pantry will be grateful, and so will your taste buds!