This Easy Blueberry Lavender Jam combines sweet blueberries and fragrant lavender, creating a delightful spread that’s perfect for toast or pancakes. It’s simple to make and tastes like summer in a jar!
Whenever I make this jam, I can’t help but smell it—it’s so good! It’s great for breakfast or as a treat on your favorite dessert. I love sharing it with friends; they can’t get enough of it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are best for flavor, but you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw them first. I find that using ripe berries gives a naturally sweeter jam!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create the jam’s texture. If you prefer less sugar, you can substitute some with honey or maple syrup but remember it may alter the texture slightly.
Lavender: Use culinary-grade lavender flowers for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh, dried lavender works too. Just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. I love adding a hint of lavender, but you can adjust the amount to your taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the jam. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is fine, but fresh is always better for taste.
How Do I Get the Right Jam Consistency?
Getting the right consistency can be tricky, but here’s a simple method. After simmering the mixture, test it by dropping a spoonful onto a chilled plate. Wait a moment and push it with your finger—the surface should wrinkle. If it doesn’t wrinkle, keep simmering for a few more minutes.
- Always stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- If it’s too thick, add a splash of water and stir; if it’s too runny, keep it on the heat until it thickens.
This technique ensures your jam has that perfect spreadable texture. Plus, remember it will thicken more once it cools, so don’t worry if it’s slightly runny at first!
How to Make Easy Blueberry Lavender Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Jam:
- 4 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lavender flowers (culinary grade), lightly packed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added brightness)
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook. You’ll end up with delicious jam ready for cooling and storing, so be sure to allow a bit of extra time for that. Overall, you’ll need about 35 minutes before you can enjoy this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blueberries:
Start by rinsing your blueberries under cool water. Make sure to remove any stems or debris from the berries. Take your time to pick through them; you want the freshest and cleanest berries for the best flavor!
2. Mix Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed blueberries, granulated sugar, lavender flowers, lemon juice, and water. If you’re using lemon zest for an extra zing, add that in as well!
3. Crush the Berries:
Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently crush the blueberries. You want to release some juice while still leaving some berries whole for texture. This step is all about personal preference—feel free to crush to your liking!
4. Cook the Jam:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir frequently to help dissolve the sugar fully. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally and keep a close eye to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. To check if it’s ready, drop a small amount on a cold plate. If it gels and wrinkled when pushed, it’s perfect!
5. Infuse the Flavor:
After reaching the desired thickness, remove the jam from heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the lovely lavender flavor to infuse even more. If you prefer a smoother texture, you have the option to strain out the lavender flowers now.
6. Jar the Jam:
Carefully pour the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars. Leave some headspace (about 1/4 inch) at the top before sealing the jars with their lids.
7. Cool and Store:
Let the jars cool at room temperature before moving them to the refrigerator. As the jam cools, it will thicken further. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer shelf life, consider processing the jars in a water bath!
Enjoy this fragrant and delightful blueberry lavender jam slathered on warm toast, drizzled over pancakes, or just by the spoonful straight from the jar! 🍇✨
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries for This Jam?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the recipe for the best texture and flavor.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Jam?
If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar by up to 1/2 cup. Just keep in mind that sugar helps with preservation and the texture, so too little might affect both.
What Should I Do if the Jam is Too Runny?
If your jam turns out runny, don’t worry! Simply return the mixture to the stove and simmer it for a few more minutes, stirring regularly. Test the consistency again using the cold plate method as you go!
How Should I Store Leftover Jam?
Store any leftover jam in airtight jars in the refrigerator where it will last for up to 2-3 weeks. For long-term storage, consider canning the jam using a water bath canner, following proper canning procedures!