Homemade Summer Berry Jam: Sweet & Simple Preserves Recipe

Nothing captures summer quite like a spoonful of homemade berry jam. Whether you’re spreading it on warm toast, swirling it into yogurt, or gifting it in cute jars, this jam brings the season’s best to your kitchen all year long. No special equipment or canning stress required—just juicy berries, a touch of sugar, and a bit of patience.

Why You’ll Love This Jam:

Peak-Season Flavor: Use strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or all three!
Small Batch & Simple: No pectin, no pressure—just a stovetop and a saucepan.
Versatile & Giftable: Perfect for breakfast, baking, or thoughtful homemade gifts.

Ingredients (Makes ~2 cups):

• Mixed Berries (4 cups fresh or frozen – try strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  
• Granulated Sugar (1 to 1¼ cups, depending on the sweetness of fruit)
  
• Lemon Juice (2 tbsp, fresh – helps balance flavor and set the jam)
  
• Optional Add-Ins: Vanilla extract, lemon zest, pinch of salt, fresh herbs like thyme or mint
  

How to Make It:

1. Prep the Berries:
   Wash and hull any strawberries; halve or quarter if large. Combine all berries in a bowl.
   
   
2. Cook It Down:
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally as the fruit softens and releases juices.
   
   
3. Mash & Simmer:
   Use a spoon or masher to break up fruit. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. The jam should coat the back of a spoon.
   
   
4. Cool & Store:
    Let cool, then spoon into clean jars. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
   

Pro Tips:

• Want it smoother? Blend before cooling for a more uniform texture.
  
• Taste before storing—add a pinch more lemon juice if it needs a little lift.
  
• Use less sugar for a fruit-forward spread, or add honey for a natural touch.
  

Don’t Forget This Kitchen Tool:

A masher or muddler is your jam’s best friend. It helps break down fruit just enough for that rustic, chunky texture while keeping things fast and fuss-free. Unlike a blender, it gives you more control and less cleanup. Use it for guacamole, cocktails, or mashed potatoes, too!