Easy Blackberry Preserves Recipe With Fresh Blackberries

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade blackberry preserves. With their rich, vibrant flavor, this Southern staple brings a touch of summer to your table all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy blackberry preserves recipe will have you making delicious preserves in no time. Plus, using fresh blackberries and natural ingredients ensures you’re getting the best taste and nutrition. Let’s dive into this simple yet sophisticated recipe that will elevate your breakfasts and desserts.

The Perfect Start: Preparing the Blackberries

Before we get into the cooking, it’s crucial to properly prepare the blackberries. This step ensures that your preserves are clean and free from any unwanted residues. Start by soaking your fresh blackberries in a water and salt water bath. Mix 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of salt in a large bowl and continue adding water and salt in the same ratio until blackberries are completely covered by the water. Let the blackberries soak for 5-10 minutes. This gentle soak helps to remove any dirt, bugs, or impurities from the berries. After soaking, rinse the blackberries thoroughly under cold water in the sink using a colander. This step is simple but makes a significant difference in the quality of your preserves.

Ingredients

Now that your blackberries are clean and ready, gather the following high-quality ingredients:

• 3 cups fresh blackberries
• 1 1/2 cups of sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch

Cooking Instructions for Blackberry Preserves

Step One: Combine Ingredients

In a heavy stockpot or large saucepan, combine the fresh blackberries, sugar, and water. This mixture is the foundation of your preserves, where the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step Two: Simmer

Place the stockpot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer to a rolling boil for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently. This step allows the blackberries to break down and the sugar to dissolve, creating a luscious syrup. After 20 minutes about 1/2 of the blackberries will be broken down with remaining chunks of whole blackberries. If you prefer preserves without pieces of whole blackberries, you can speed up the process using a potato masher to break down.

Step Three: Add Cornstarch

After 20 minutes, add the 4 teaspoons of cornstarch to the pot. Stir well to ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated. This will help thicken the preserves, giving them that perfect consistency.

Step Four: Cook Further

Continue to cook the mixture for another 5 minutes on medium-low heat. Keep stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening and reaching the setting point. Your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of simmering blackberries.

Step Five: Cool Down

Once the preserves have thickened, remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop fully and the preserves to set properly.

Step Six: Store

Transfer the cooled blackberry preserves into an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep fresh for up to a week. If you want to enjoy your preserves for longer, you can also can them for extended shelf life.

Enjoying Your Blackberry Preserves

Homemade blackberry preserves are incredibly versatile. Spread them on toast, scones, overnight oats, homemade biscuits for a delightful breakfast treat. They also make an excellent topping for pancakes, waffles, or homemade yogurt. For a sophisticated dessert, try swirling them into vanilla ice cream or using them as a filling for cakes and pastries. The possibilities are endless with so many delicious recipes, and the taste is always exceptional.

Tips for the Best Blackberry Preserves

• Use Fresh, Ripe Blackberries: The quality of your preserves depends largely on the quality of your fruit. Fresh berries will give you the best flavor and texture. Picking wild blackberries straight from the vine is a fun family activity that can support local farmers or even your own garden!
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your preserves a bit less sweet, you can use less sugar. Conversely, if you like them sweeter, add a bit more sugar to taste.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spicy note. Personalizing your preserves with additional flavors can make them even more special.
• Proper Sterilization for Canning: If you choose to can your preserves, make sure to sterilize your jars and lids properly to ensure they are safe for long-term storage.

Blackberry Preserves

Make delicious blackberry preserves with this easy recipe using fresh blackberries and few kitchen staples. Perfect for breakfast or adding to desserts!

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: blackberry preserves

Servings: 1 pint

Ingredients

• 3 cups blackberries
• 1 1/2 Cups Sugar
• 1/2 Cup Water
• 4 tsp Cornstarch

Instructions

• Add blackberries, sugar and water to heavy stockpot.
• Simmer for 20 minutes on medium heat stirring frequently.
• Add 4 tsp cornstarch and stir.
• Cook another 5 minutes on medium-low heat.
• Allow to cool completely.
• Transfer to air tight container and store in refrigerator up to 1 week. Can also be canned for longer shelf life.

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Making blackberry preserves at home is a rewarding experience that combines the joy of cooking with the pleasure of enjoying a homemade treat. This easy recipe, with its simple steps and delightful results, is perfect for anyone looking to savor the taste of fresh blackberries in a whole new way. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a batch of delicious, homemade blackberry preserves that you can enjoy! Happy cooking!

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