Every summer, hedgerows burst with glossy blackberries — free for the picking if you know where to look. For me, making blackberry jam has always been one of the most satisfying preserving projects. It’s simple, beginner-friendly, and the flavour is unbeatable: sweet, tangy, and packed with that unmistakable taste of summer.

I absolutely love taking the family out for a walk, dog running around like a loon with a few plastic tubs in a bag ready for looting the local hedgerows. Its free exercise, family time and you’re getting free fruit; what not to like?!

This recipe is the same one I use in my YouTube video — where I take you step by step through the whole process. Whether you’re picking wild berries, using homegrown ones, or grabbing a punnet from the shop, this is the perfect way to capture blackberry season in a jar.

Why Make Blackberry Jam?

Blackberry jam is one of those preserves that never disappoints. It:

• Works beautifully on toast, crumpets, or scones.
• Adds a fruity twist to yogurt or porridge.
• Makes a wonderful filling for sponge cakes.
• Is a brilliant way to use up large foraged harvests.

And the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques — just a big pan, sugar, and berries

Instructions:

Step 1 – Prepare the fruit
Wash the blackberries gently and remove any stems or leaves. Weigh them to know how much sugar you’ll need (60% of weight, although traditionally its 1:1!).

Step 2 – Combine with sugar
In a large preserving pan, add the blackberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir well and let sit for 10–15 minutes — this helps the sugar draw out the juices.

Step 3 – Boil to set
Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a rapid boil. Cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring often. Test for setting point by placing a spoonful on a cold plate — if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.

Step 4 – Jar it up
Pour into sterilised jars, seal, and let cool.

Want a detailed breakdown? See the video here, save it to your watch later and make along with me!

Serving Suggestions

• Spread thickly on hot buttered toast or scones
• Swirled into natural yogurt or porridge
• Used as a cake filling with whipped cream
• Warmed slightly and drizzled over ice cream
• Given as a thoughtful homemade gift

Blackberry jam is one of the simplest and most rewarding preserves you can make. Whether you’re new to preserving or adding to your homemade pantry, it’s a recipe that never fails. Grab a basket, head out blackberrying, and enjoy turning nature’s bounty into jars of rich, fruity goodness.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments — and don’t forget to check out the video above to see the whole process in action