Easy Small Batch Blueberry Jam: A Sweet and Simple Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own jam, especially when it’s as easy as this easy small batch blueberry jam. With just a few simple ingredients and no special equipment needed, you can whip up a jar of fresh, homemade jam that captures the sweet, tangy flavor of ripe blueberries. This recipe is perfect for those times when you don’t need to make a large batch but still want to enjoy the taste of homemade jam. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or using it as a filling for desserts, this blueberry jam will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

This small batch blueberry jam recipe is special to me because it reminds me of summers spent picking blueberries at a local farm with my family. After a long day of gathering berries, we would head home, eager to turn our harvest into delicious preserves. I love how this recipe allows you to enjoy that fresh blueberry flavor all year long, even when blueberries aren’t in season.

What’s great about this jam is how easy it is to make. There’s no need for canning equipment or pectin—just a saucepan, a few basic ingredients, and about 30 minutes of your time. It’s the perfect solution for when you want a homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Overview: Easy Small Batch Blueberry Jam

This easy small batch blueberry jam recipe requires only three main ingredients: fresh or frozen blueberries, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice. The natural pectin in the fruit, combined with the acidity of the lemon juice, allows the jam to thicken beautifully without the need for any added pectin. The result is a vibrant, flavorful jam that’s just sweet enough to enhance the natural taste of the blueberries.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences, here are a few substitution ideas:

• Sugar: You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet jam, or you can use honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener.
• Lemon Juice: If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice works just as well. You can also use lime juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Blueberries: While this is a blueberry jam recipe, you can swap out the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of berries if you’d like to experiment with flavors.

How to Make Easy Small Batch Blueberry Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the blueberries if they’re fresh. If you’re using frozen blueberries, you can add them straight to the pot without thawing. In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

Step 2: Cook the Jam

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once the blueberries start to release their juices and the mixture becomes bubbly, lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to help break down the berries.

Step 3: Test for Doneness

As the jam cooks, it will begin to thicken. This should take about 20-25 minutes. To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. If the jam wrinkles slightly when you push it with your finger, it’s done. If it’s still too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Once the jam reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the jam to a clean jar or container, and let it cool completely before sealing with a lid. Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This easy small batch blueberry jam is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways you can enjoy it:

• On Toast: Spread the jam on warm buttered toast or your favorite bread for a simple yet delicious breakfast.
• With Yogurt: Stir the jam into plain or vanilla yogurt for a quick and flavorful snack.
• As a Dessert Topping: Drizzle the jam over ice cream, cheesecake, or pancakes for a sweet and fruity topping.
• Pair with Cheese: Serve the jam with a cheese board, especially with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, for a tasty contrast.

Storage and Reheating

This blueberry jam is best stored in the refrigerator. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store the jam in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: If you’d like to store it for longer, you can freeze the jam. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. The jam can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe if you’d like to make more jam. Just make sure you use a larger saucepan, as the mixture will need room to bubble and reduce.

Do I need to use pectin?

No, this recipe doesn’t require pectin. The natural pectin in the blueberries, combined with the lemon juice, helps the jam set beautifully.

Can I make this jam with other berries?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries. You can even mix different types of berries for a delicious mixed berry jam.

Conclusion

Making your own easy small batch blueberry jam is a wonderful way to enjoy the sweet taste of fresh blueberries all year round. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, stirring it into yogurt, or gifting it to friends, this jam is sure to impress. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and requires just a few ingredients. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to follow the blog for more simple and delicious recipes.