Small Batch Berry Jam

 
 

Berry picking season is in full swing — and it can be hard to keep up with the bounty. It's a great time of year to be making and storing jam using the abundance of fresh berries. This easy to make Small Batch Berry Jam recipe is like summer in a jar. Making homemade jam is not as daunting as it sounds and the kids will love being a part of it from start to finish.

What you’ll need:

  • 1 3/4 cup granulated sugar

  • juice and zest of one lemon

  • 2 cups fresh berries - blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries are all delicious options - use whatever your family enjoys best

  • Pint size mason jars or small glass food storage containers with lids

To Make:

  1. Add the sugar, lemon juice and zest to a medium saucepan over low heat. Cook and stir the sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.

  2. Add the berries to the pan and continue to cook over low heat for 35-40 minutes until the mixture is at a low boil. You can give them a smash at this point if you like. 

  3. When the mixture is thickened a bit and almost the consistency of loose jam, remove from the heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

  4. Transfer to containers and seal with the lid.

  5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 6 months. 

    Ways to Involve the Kids:

    1. Harvesting the fruit at a Pick-Your-Own Farm or selecting it from the store or farmer's market. 

    2. Counting out jars and lids.

    3. Adding in the ingredients to the pot. 

    4. Smashing the berries. 

    5. Setting and watching the timer during jam cooking.

    6. Handing lids to an adult as jars are filled.

    7. Best of all - eating the jam!

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