Blueberry Jam Canning Recipe

The first time I made blueberry jam, it felt like capturing summer in a jar. Homemade blueberry jam is a healthy, simple treat made with 4 ingredients, 25% less sugar, and no preservatives.
Using fresh, ripe blueberries ensures the best taste, and it can be mixed with other fruits. It takes 20-30 minutes to prepare and can be stored in the fridge, freezer, or canned for up to a year. This jam tastes fresher than store-bought versions!
This simple recipe will show you how to make and can blueberry jam, with tips to make it perfect every time. Whether you want to spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or dollop it on desserts, this blueberry jam is a delicious addition to any meal.

- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time:10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipments
I recommend you gather these essential tools before you start making blueberry jam. They’ll make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable
- Jar Wrench
- Small Jars (8 oz)
- Large Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Water Bath Canner
- Canning Funnel (Optional)
- Bubble Remover (Optional)
- Magnetic Lid Wand (Optional)
Ingredients
The best combination of ingredients I recommend to you that will help you get the best taste and long-lasting preservation are mentioned below.
Ingredients
2 tsp lemon zest
3 ¾ lbs blueberries
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 ¾ cups granulated sugar
Step By Step Guide To Prepare Blueberry Jam Canning Recipe
Before you get started, make sure all your canning equipment is ready and your jars, lids, and rings are sterilized.
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine fresh blueberries, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and balsamic vinegar. Stir the mixture well until the sugar has dissolved into the fruit.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Place the pot over medium-high heat and then bring the mixture to make it boil. Allow it to cook for about 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to see a rolling boil, where the mixture continues to boil even when stirred.

Step 3: Strain the Jam
Once the mixture is boiling, take the pot off the heat. Pour everything through a sieve set over a bowl to separate the juice from the berries. Set the berries aside and return the juice to the pot.

Step 4: Reduce the Juice
Put the juice back on the stove and bring it to a boil. Let it cook until it reaches 221°F. This could take a while since the excess water in the juice needs to evaporate for the temperature to rise. Once it hits 221°F, add the berries back into the pot.

Step 5: Final Boil
Bring the whole mixture to a boil again and let it cook for 2 more minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the blueberries are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Fill the Jars
Once the jam is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top. Use a clean cloth to wipe the jar rims, ensuring they are clean.

Step 7: Seal and Process
Put the sterilized lids on the jars and tighten the rings just until they are fingertip-tight. Then, place the jars in a boiling water bath and process for 10 minutes. Afterward, remove the jars and allow them to cool for 12-24 hours on a rack. Once they are completely cool, remove the rings, and your homemade blueberry jam is ready to be stored!

Now you can enjoy your fresh blueberry jam right away or keep it for later use!
So, to make this delicious blueberry jam, you’ll need blueberries, sugar, lemon zest and juice, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. You’ll cook this mixture, separate the juice, cook it some more, then combine it all again before canning.
This process ensures a safe and tasty jam that you can enjoy for months to come. Remember to sterilize your jars and process them correctly for proper preservation.
FAQs
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
Use a recipe specifically designed for low-sugar or no-sugar added jams.
How long does homemade blueberry jam last?
Canned: up to a year; opened/refrigerated: a few weeks; frozen: several months.
My jam is too runny. What can I do?
Recook it with more lemon juice or pectin, following package directions.
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, use them frozen, but expect a slightly longer cooking time.
How do I know when my blueberry jam is set (thick enough)?
Use the “cold plate test”: if a spoonful of jam wrinkles on a cold plate, it’s set.