Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam For Canning And Freezing

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When you think of jams and jellies, most people think of strawberry or raspberry jams. I am here to say that this easy low sugar blueberry jam for canning and freezing might change everything. It is a naturally sweet jam that is decadent and bursting with blueberry flavor.

This homemade jam uses much less sugar than traditional jams and jellies. The yield for this recipe is about 7 cups of low sugar blueberry jam which fills 8 -1/2 pint (8-ounce) jars. 

Making jam is one of the simplest forms of home food preservation. So many different fruits can be made into jam and this low sugar blueberry jam recipe is a great way to give your family fresh fruit flavor without all the added sugar and preservatives. Plus making your own jams is so much fun!

In the summer months, you can find beautiful berries at your local farmer’s markets. Thank you to Abuelo’s Farm for these lovely berries, the quality is top-notch. Blueberries can also be found at your local grocery store.

Why we love Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam

Low sugar blueberry jam is the perfect topping for yogurt with chia seeds or ice cream. Try stuffing it into crepes or on a sandwich. These Belgian waffles love to be smothered in homemade blueberry jam. And this is a low-sugar jam – so everyone can enjoy it. 

There are many reasons why we love blueberry jam. Here are a few:

• It’s delicious! Blueberries are a sweet and tart fruit that pairs perfectly with sugar and other ingredients used in jam-making.
• It’s versatile. Blueberry jam can be used on toast, pancakes, waffles, bagels, and more. It can also be used as a glaze for chicken or fish, or as a filling for pies and pastries.
• It’s healthy. Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Jam made with fresh blueberries is a healthy way to enjoy this fruit.
• It’s nostalgic. For many people, blueberry jam is a reminder of childhood. It’s a classic flavor that is often used in recipes passed down from generation to generation.
• It’s a gift. Blueberry jam is a thoughtful and delicious gift to give to friends and family. It’s a perfect way to show someone you care.

If you’re looking for a delicious, versatile, and healthy way to enjoy blueberries, blueberry jam is a great option.

History of Blueberries In America

Blueberries are native to North America and have been used by Native Americans for centuries. The first European settlers in America also enjoyed blueberries, and they quickly became a popular fruit. Blueberries were first cultivated in America in the early 1800s, and commercial production began in the late 1800s. Today, blueberries are grown in many states across the United States, and they are one of the most popular fruits in the country.

Blueberries are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. They are also low in calories and fat. Blueberries have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. They may also help to improve memory and cognitive function.

Blueberries are a delicious and healthy fruit that has been enjoyed by Americans for centuries. They are versatile fruit that can be eaten fresh, cooked, or made into juice, jam, or pie.

Where Are The Best Blueberries Grown

According to the USDA, the top 5 states for blueberry production in 2020 were:

1. Georgia
2. Michigan
3. California
4. Oregon
5. New Jersey

However, there are many other great places to grow blueberries, including Maine, North Carolina, and Washington. The best place to grow blueberries will depend on a number of factors, including climate, soil type, and water availability.

What To Use Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam For

You can use low sugar blueberry jam for a variety of things, such as:

• Make no-bake cheesecake jars
• Spread it on toast or bagels for breakfast.
• Use it as a filling for crepes or pancakes.
• Add it to yogurt or oatmeal.
• Stir it into smoothies or shakes.
• Use it as a glaze for chicken or fish.
• Spread on these no-knead dinner rolls.

• Swirl into cheesecakes
• Make a blueberry jam sandwich with cream cheese or peanut butter.
• Top ice cream or frozen yogurt with it.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for fruit or pretzels.
• Make a blueberry jam cake or muffin.
• Add it to a cheese board.

How To Thicken Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam

Blueberries are full of natural pectin which makes the jam the perfect consistency without adding any store-bought low sugar pectin or regular pectin.  

1. Cook the jam for a longer period of time. This will help to break down the natural pectin in the blueberries and thicken the jam.
2. Add a thickener, such as cornstarch or tapioca starch. This will help to speed up the thickening process and give the jam a more consistent texture.
3. Use a candy thermometer to check the jam’s temperature. The jam is ready when it reaches 220 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool slightly before jarring it. This will help to prevent the jam from foaming up.
5. Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Let’s Talk About Cornstarch As A Thickener For Jam

Cornstarch is a fine, white powder made from the starchy part of corn kernels. It is a naturally occurring starch that is a common ingredient in many foods, including sauces, gravies, and puddings. Cornstarch is also used as a thickener in many other products, such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

To use cornstarch as a thickener, it is first mixed with a cold liquid, such as water or milk. This mixture is then added to the hot liquid that needs to be thickened. The cornstarch will absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.

The amount of cornstarch needed to thicken a liquid will vary depending on the desired thickness. A general rule of thumb is to use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for every cup of liquid.

Cornstarch is a safe and effective thickener. However, it is important to note that it can cause food to become cloudy. If this is a concern, you can use a different type of thickener, such as arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.

Here are some tips for using cornstarch as a thickener:

• Use cold liquid to mix the cornstarch. This will prevent the cornstarch from clumping.
• Add the cornstarch mixture to the hot liquid slowly, stirring constantly. This will help to prevent the cornstarch from forming lumps.
• Cook the mixture until it reaches the desired thickness.
• Be careful not to overcook the mixture, as this can cause it to become too thick.
• If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add more liquid.
• Cornstarch can be used to thicken both sweet and savory dishes.
• It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes.

Ingredients In Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam For Canning And Freezing

10 cups of fresh blueberries 

1 cup of water

1 lemon

​1 lime

1/2 to 1 cup of sugar

1/4 cup of cornstarch + 1/4 cup cold water

Notes: 

• You can make a small batch by doing half of this recipe.
• Any combination of citrus will work but use 2 whole fruits for the correct acidity.
• Add more or less sugar as you taste while cooking. Monk fruit sweetener is a good no-carb choice.
• The amount of sugar doesn’t affect preservation. 
• Use the whole lemon plus lemon juice. 

Prepare Blueberries For Jam

To wash dirty blueberries and berries, you can follow these steps:

1. Rinse the berries in a colander under cold running water.
2. Gently rub the berries between your fingers to remove any dirt.
3. Sort through the berries and remove any debris.
4. If the berries are very dirty, you can soak them in a bowl of cold water and a tablespoon of vinegar for 5 minutes.
5. Rinse the berries again in cold water and drain.
6. Pat the berries dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.

It is important to wash berries thoroughly before eating them, as they can harbor harmful bacteria. I always do a quick vinegar bath to be sure the berries are free of any toxins that may have been applied during growing. 

How To Cook Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam

1. In a large pot (6-quart) place the washed blueberries and 1 cup of water. Turn to medium-high heat.

2. Cut the lemon and lime in half and squeeze the juice onto the blueberries and then throw them into the pot.  

3. Add in the sugar and stir well.

4. Bring the berry mixture to a full rolling boil then turn the heat to medium-low. 

5. Simmer for 40-45 minutes until the consistency is thicker and the berries are completely broken down. The cooking time may vary.

6. Make a cornstarch slurry and slowly add it to the hot jam stirring constantly. Simmer for five (5) more minutes and remove from the heat.

Pureeing Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam

There are several ways to choose the texture of your jam. 

1. Use a potato masher for a chunkier jam. 

​2. Mash gently with a fork to make blueberry preserves.

3. Puree with a hand blender (immersion blender) for a smooth and silky finish.

4. Blend in a food processor or blender for a smooth texture.

The more you puree the jam, the fewer blueberry skins there will be. The jam can be run through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother texture, but I don’t usually need to do this. 

Canning Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam (Water Bath Canning Method)

Canning supplies:

• ​Water bath canner (I use my pressure canner for water bathing)
• Half-pint jam jars
• New lids and bands
• Metal funnel
• Jar lifter

1. Set a canner on the stove with water and turn to medium heat. 
2. Wash jars in hot soapy water. Set clean jars in a row and place a metal funnel on one. 
3. Fill a hot jar with hot jam leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
4. Wipe the rim of the jar and fit it with a new lid. Screw bands on finger tight.
5. Place the hot jars into the hot water (of about the same temperature) and bring to a full boil. 
6. Cover and set a timer. The processing time for 1/2 pint jars in a hot water bath is 10 minutes. Process 15 minutes for pints. 
7. Remove jars with a jar lifter and set them on a towel on the counter spaced an inch or two apart to cool to room temperature. 
8. Label, remove bands, and store them in a dark place.

For official regulations and questions, check the National Center for Food Preservation or the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning.

​Freezing Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam

Fresh berries, especially blueberries freeze well. Spread washed blueberries in a single layer on a cooking sheet and flash freeze for about 2 hours. Transfer the berries to an airtight container and place them in the freezer. Frozen berries are great additions to oatmeal, cereal, or waffles. 

To freeze blueberry jam:

• Let the jam cool to room temperature.
• Place the jam into the containers of your choice – jars, plastic containers, reusable bags, or Ziploc freezer bags. 
• Put into the freezer

Blueberries make a delicious freezer jam!

How Long Does Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam Last

Canned and frozen jam lasts up to a year. For best results place jars of canned low-sugar jam in a dark place. 

Homemade jam that has been opened can be stored in the refrigerator for about 5-6 days. To keep it fresh, rinse the lid and the rim after using it. 

Wrapping Up Low Sugar Blueberry Jam Canning And Freezing Recipe

That unmistakable blueberry flavor from the fresh berries is a great way to enjoy this delicious fruit all year long. This easy blueberry jam recipe is a definite must-try. The taste of summer in a jar= fresh berry jam.

One of my family’s favorite things to do with low-sugar blueberry jam is to spread it on sandwiches with peanut butter. Check out my other Fruit spreads that can be enjoyed anytime. 

Low Sugar Blueberry Jam Canning And Freezing Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Easy Low Sugar Blueberry Jam For Canning And Freezing

This easy low sugar blueberry jam for canning and freezing is naturally sweet and decadent. It is delicious on yogurt, waffles, cheesecake and sandwiches.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:5 minutes mins

Cook Time:45 minutes mins

Total Time:50 minutes mins

Ingredients

• 10 cups Fresh Blueberries
• 1 cup Water
• 1 Lemon
• 1 Lime
• 1/2-1 cup Sugar
• 1/4 cup Cornstarch + 1/4 cup cold water Makes a slurry

Instructions

• Wash blueberries in water and vinegar.
• In a large pot (6-quart) place the washed blueberries and 1 cup of water. Turn to medium-high heat.
• Cut the lemon and lime in half and squeeze the juice onto the blueberries and then throw them into the pot.
• Add in the sugar and stir well.
• Bring the berry mixture to a full rolling boil then turn the heat to medium-low.
• Simmer for 40-45 minutes until the consistency is thicker and the berries are completely broken down. The cooking time may vary.
• Make a cornstarch slurry and slowly add it to the hot jam stirring constantly. Simmer for five (5) more minutes and remove from the heat.
• Puree the blueberry mixture with a hand blender.
• See notes for canning instructions.

Notes

1. Set a canner on the stove with water and turn to medium heat. 
2. Wash jars in hot soapy water. Set clean jars in a row and place a metal funnel on one. 
3. Fill a hot jar with hot jam leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
4. Wipe the rim of the jar and fit it with a new lid. Screw bands on finger tight.
5. Place the hot jars into the hot water (of about the same temperature) and bring to a full boil. 
6. Cover and set a timer. The processing time for 1/2 pint jars in a hot water bath is 10 minutes. 15 minutes for pints. 
7. Remove jars with a jar lifter and set them on a towel on the counter spaced an inch or two apart to cool to room temperature. 
8. Label, remove bands, and store in a dark place.

Course: Jam

Cuisine: American

Keyword: blueberry, blueberry jam

Servings: 8 1/2 pints

Author: Sarah

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