There’s something magical about making your own jam. It transports you to a simpler time when preserving the season’s bounty was a cherished tradition. I remember the first time I made raspberry jam with my grandmother. Her kitchen smelled of sweet raspberries, and her laughter filled the air as we watched the bubbling pot of goodness together. Those memories inspired me to recreate that experience with a modern twist. Today, I’m sharing an easy raspberry jam recipe that only requires three ingredients but delivers a burst of fresh, fruity flavor.
Making raspberry jam at home is not only a rewarding experience but also a practical way to savor the taste of summer all year round. Whether you’re an experienced canner or a complete novice, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results. Plus, with only three ingredients—fresh raspberries, raw cane sugar, and lemon juice—you can be sure of what’s in your jam, avoiding any unnecessary additives or preservatives.
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup raw cane sugar
- ½ lemon, juiced
Equipment
- Large enamel-lined saucepan with a thick bottom
- Baking sheet
- Jars and lids
- Candy thermometer
- Ladle or funnel
Instructions 3 Ingredient Raspberry Jam:
Prepare Jars
- Wash the jars: Clean the jars in hot, soapy water and rinse them thoroughly. Place the jars and lids on a baking sheet and put them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) to dry. Keep them in the oven until ready to use.
Wash Raspberries
- Rinse the raspberries: Gently wash the raspberries under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel.
Cook the Jam
- Combine ingredients: In a large enamel-lined saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Boil the mixture: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. As the raspberries cook, they will naturally break down, so there’s no need to mash them. Maintain a steady boil, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Cook for about 15-17 minutes or until the mixture thickens. The bubbling will slow down as it thickens. Use a candy thermometer to check; the jam is usually ready when it reaches 215°-220°F (102°-104°C).
Jar the Jam
- Fill the jars: Carefully ladle or funnel the hot jam into the prepared hot jars. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth and seal tightly with the lids.
Store the Jam
- Store properly: Label the jars and store them in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Sweetness and Thickness: For a sweeter and thicker jam, increase the sugar to 1½ cups.
- Consistency: Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred jam consistency. Cook longer for thicker jam or shorter for a runnier texture.
- Scaling Up: If you double the recipe, note that the cooking time may be longer to achieve the desired thickness.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the jam for an extra layer of flavor.
- Berry Mix: Mix in some blueberries or blackberries for a mixed berry jam.
- Low Sugar Option: Use a low-sugar pectin if you prefer less sweetness while maintaining the jam’s consistency.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my jam is set? A: Besides using a candy thermometer, you can perform the plate test. Place a small plate in the freezer. Drop a small spoonful of hot jam onto the plate and return it to the freezer for a minute. If the jam wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
Q: Can I use frozen raspberries? A: Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
Q: How long does the jam last? A: Unopened, the jam can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a month.
Q: What if my jam is too runny? A: If your jam is too runny after cooling, you can re-cook it. Bring it back to a boil and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Making raspberry jam is not only a delightful way to preserve the flavors of summer but also a fun and rewarding kitchen project. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the delicious taste of homemade jam anytime you like. Whether you spread it on toast, dollop it on yogurt, or use it as a filling for pastries, this raspberry jam is sure to brighten your day.
