Print

Easy Small Batch Fresh Black Raspberry Jam Recipe Perfect for Beginners

small batch fresh black raspberry jam - featured image

A simple and quick recipe for making fresh black raspberry jam in small batches, perfect for beginners and those who want homemade jam without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300 grams) fresh black raspberries, ripe and firm
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon powdered fruit pectin
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: honey or maple syrup as a substitute for sugar

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 2 cups (300 grams) of fresh black raspberries gently under cold water, then drain well. Remove any stems or leaves.
  2. Place the raspberries in a medium saucepan and gently crush them with a potato masher or fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
  3. Stir in 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
  4. In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon powdered fruit pectin in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water until fully dissolved.
  5. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the berry mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to avoid sticking.
  6. Once boiling, add the dissolved pectin and continue stirring. Let it boil for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  7. Test the jam by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and letting it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles and holds shape when pushed, it is ready; if not, cook for another 1-2 minutes and test again.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract if desired.
  9. Pour the jam into sterilized jars or containers. Let cool to room temperature before sealing.
  10. Refrigerate and enjoy within 2-3 weeks.

Notes

Stir constantly during cooking to prevent burning. Test jam set on a chilled plate. If jam is too runny, cook a bit longer. Use fresh, ripe berries for best flavor. Refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks. Optional vanilla extract adds warmth. Frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained. For longer storage, consider water-bath canning with adjusted pectin.

Nutrition

Keywords: black raspberry jam, fresh jam, small batch jam, easy jam recipe, homemade jam, beginner jam recipe, fruit preserves