We love how jam preserves the best flavors of the harvest. Our Black Bear Jam is a bold treat that brings a burst of berries in every bite. This recipe draws inspiration from time-honored mountain traditions that celebrate wild fruits.
We gather fresh local fruit to create a sweet yet slightly tart spread that pairs well with toast pastries or even a dollop on ice cream. It’s easy to whip up at home and it always impresses friends and family.
We keep the process simple so the fruit shines bright. From picking ripe berries to stirring the pot with care we pour our hearts into every spoonful.
Black Bear Jam Recipe
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Fresh blackberries | 4 cups |
| Sugar | 2 cups |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Powdered pectin | 1 package |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Place the blackberries in a large pot. Mash them gently with a wooden spoon to release their juices.
- Stir in the sugar. Let the berries rest for ten minutes so the sugar dissolves and blends with the fruit.
- Sprinkle in the pectin and salt. Stir steadily to help the mixture thicken as it heats.
- Bring the jam to a rolling boil over medium heat. We stir regularly to prevent scorching and preserve the rich fruit flavor.
- Add the lemon juice. Boil for 1 minute. Remove any foam from the surface.
- Turn off the heat. Ladle the hot jam into clean jars. Seal the jars right away for lasting freshness.
Ingredients
Our Black Bear Jam calls for a short list of essential items. We look for ripe blackberries with deep color. We measure sugar precisely for balanced sweetness. We add fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. We stir in powdered pectin to help the jam set. We also use a pinch of salt to pull the tastes together.
Below is a quick overview of what we need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh blackberries | 4 cups | Rinsed and patted dry |
| Sugar | 3 cups | – |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed |
| Powdered pectin | 1 package 6 tablespoons total | – |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | – |
We arrange these items on our workspace before heating anything. This ensures a smooth process from start to finish. We favor fresh ingredients to capture the mountain-inspired charm of our jam.
Tools & Equipment
We gather the following items to ensure a smooth jam-making experience: pot, spoon, funnel, jars, lids, ladle, jar lifter
- Large stainless steel pot
We prefer a wide base for steady heat distribution and enough space for our Black Bear Jam to bubble without overflowing
- Wooden spoon
We stir the berry mixture continuously and prevent scorching as the jam thickens
- Canning funnel
We fill each jar with precision and avoid spills or drips along the jar rims
- Sterilized glass jars with airtight lids
We seal our jam tightly to lock in freshness and preserve its sweet-tart flavor
- Jar lifter
We lift hot jars from boiling water without risking burns or contamination
- Kitchen towels
Preparation
We are ready to process our Black Bear Jam ingredients. Let’s wash our berries and set up our jars for a successful canning session.
Washing The Berries
We place our fresh blackberries in a large fine mesh colander. We remove leaves stems and any debris. We rinse them under cool running water to wash away sediment. We repeat this process if we see extra dirt.
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Rinsing | 2 |
| Straining | 1 |
We set the berries aside on a clean surface or in a large bowl. We gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess water. Excess moisture can affect the jam’s consistency so we ensure our berries are well drained.
Setting Up Jars
We arrange our sterilized jars on a clean table. We lay out the lids and rings nearby. We check that the seals are undamaged and the jars are free of chips or cracks. We keep everything within reach so we can work quickly once the jam is cooked. If we plan to keep jars warm we place them on a tray in a low oven set to 225°F for easy handling later.
Cooking The Jam
We are now ready to transform our Black Bear Jam mixture into a smooth spread. This stage releases the natural sweetness of the fruit and allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Simmering The Fruit
We set our stainless steel pot on medium-high heat and stir the mashed blackberries with sugar until the sugar dissolves. We watch closely for small bubbles on the surface. We reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes. We skim off any foam that appears to keep our jam smooth.
Thickening And Flavoring
We add the powdered pectin and salt. We stir constantly for about 1 minute at a rolling boil. We then add our freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir again to lock in tangy brightness. We test the consistency by spooning a small amount onto a chilled plate. If it shows slight wrinkles when nudged, our Black Bear Jam is set. We take the pot off the heat and funnel the jam into warm jars.
| Stage | Heat Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Simmering The Fruit | Medium-high then low | 5 minutes |
| Thickening And Flavoring | High | 1 minute |
Canning & Storage
We place each warm jar filled with our Black Bear Jam into a deep pot of simmering water. The water should cover the jar lids by at least 1 inch. We bring the water to a steady boil and process the jars to ensure an airtight seal.
- Carefully lower jars into the boiling water using a jar lifter.
- Keep a gentle boil for 10 minutes on low-altitude settings.
- Lift jars out and place them on a kitchen towel.
- Let jars rest until they cool to room temperature without disturbing them.
- Inspect lids for proper sealing by pressing the center to confirm a tight seal.
We label each jar with the date of canning and store them in a cool dark area. Once opened we refrigerate the jar to maintain freshness.
| Altitude (Feet) | Processing Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| 0–1,000 | 10 |
| 1,001–3,000 | 15 |
| 3,001–6,000 | 20 |
| 6,001 and above | 25 |
Make-Ahead Tips
We prepare extra Black Bear Jam in advance so we do not rush during busy mornings or special occasions. We store each sealed jar in a cool dark spot to protect its flavor. Once opened we transfer the jar to the fridge and use it within three weeks. We also freeze leftover jam in freezer-safe containers while leaving half an inch of headspace for expansion. We prefer these strategies for flexible scheduling and less last-minute stress.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Cool Dark Pantry | Up to 12 months |
| Refrigerator (Once Open) | Up to 3 weeks |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months |
Conclusion
We take pride in how this homemade spread adds a touch of mountain coziness to our table. Its rich flavor brings warmth to busy mornings and special gatherings alike. We hope you enjoy each spoonful and savor the sweet moments shared around every jar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Black Bear Jam?
Black Bear Jam is a homemade fruit spread that blends ripe blackberries with sugar, pectin, lemon juice, and a touch of salt. It celebrates the mountain tradition of sweet yet tangy jams, making it a perfect companion for breads, pastries, and even savory dishes. Its flavor is both robust and refreshing, thanks to fresh, local berries that shine through in every spoonful.
What berries work best for Black Bear Jam?
Choose plump, ripe blackberries free from bruises or soft spots. Ripe berries offer balanced sweetness and tartness, amplifying the jam’s flavor without overpowering it. Fresh-picked, local blackberries often deliver the best taste and aroma.
What equipment do I need to make this jam?
Basic tools include a large stainless steel pot for even heat, a sturdy wooden spoon for mixing, and a canning funnel for mess-free jar filling. You’ll also need sterilized glass jars with airtight lids, a jar lifter for safe handling, and kitchen towels to keep everything tidy.
How do I prepare the blackberries?
Rinse the blackberries thoroughly under cool water to remove any debris. Discard leaves, stems, or damaged berries. Gently pat them dry, ensuring you remove excess moisture for a thick and smooth jam. Properly cleaned and dried berries help preserve the jam’s flavor and consistency.
How long should I cook Black Bear Jam?
Mash the berries and simmer with sugar for about five minutes, skimming off any foam. Then add powdered pectin and salt, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil for one minute. Finally, incorporate lemon juice to boost flavor. This quick process creates a lush, spreadable texture.
How should I store finished jars?
Process filled jars in a simmering water bath, covering the lids by at least one inch of water. Boil according to altitude guidelines, then remove and let cool. Label each jar with the canning date. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate once opened to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze leftover jam?
Yes. Place leftover jam in freezer-safe containers, leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn. Properly frozen jam will keep its flavor and texture for up to six months, ensuring a convenient sweet treat when you need it.