Winter Berry Sweet-Tart Preserve (Print Version)

Sweet-tart blend of winter berries, ideal for spreading or swirling into yogurt and desserts.

# Recipe Ingredients:

→ Berries

01 - 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
02 - 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
03 - 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
04 - 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

→ Sweeteners & Acid

05 - 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
06 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
07 - 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)

→ Setting Agents

08 - 1 medium apple, peeled and grated
09 - 1 tablespoon powdered fruit pectin (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Place all berries, grated apple, and orange zest (if used) into a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
02 - Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
03 - Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.
04 - Lower the heat and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring often until the fruit breaks down and the mixture thickens.
05 - For a firmer consistency, sprinkle in the powdered pectin and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
06 - Test jam by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it is ready.
07 - Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace, then seal immediately.
08 - Allow jars to cool. Refrigerate and use within one month, or process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to store unrefrigerated.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It uses whatever frozen berries you have on hand, so theres no hunting for perfect fresh fruit in the dead of winter.
  • The natural pectin from the apple means you can skip the store-bought stuff and still get a beautiful, spreadable texture.
  • It tastes bright and alive when everything outside is cold and quiet.
02 -
  • Do not skip the maceration step because it draws out the juices and helps the sugar dissolve evenly, which prevents crystallization later.
  • Stir often during simmering or the bottom will scorch and turn bitter.
  • Always use sterilized jars or the jam can spoil quickly, even in the fridge.
03 -
  • Freeze a few small plates before you start so theyre ready for the wrinkle test.
  • Use a mix of fresh and frozen berries if you can find them, it gives the jam more texture and complexity.
  • Add a cinnamon stick or star anise while it simmers, then fish it out before jarring for a warm, spiced version.

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