Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Making wild blackberry jelly with Sure Jell is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer! This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of wild blackberries all year round. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or gifting in jars, this jelly is versatile and sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can create delicious jelly without any fuss.
• Fresh Flavor: Using wild blackberries ensures a vibrant taste that store-bought options just can’t match.
• Perfect for Gifting: Homemade jelly makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family during any season.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy your jelly on toast, pancakes, or as an ingredient in desserts—it’s great wherever you need a burst of flavor!
• Year-Round Enjoyment: Preserve the taste of summer by making this jelly in large batches and enjoying it throughout the year.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Tight knit strainer
• Ladle
• Funnel
• Jars with lids and rings

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents overflow while boiling.
• Tight knit strainer: Ensures you extract maximum juice from the berries without any pulp.
• Ladle: Helps you transfer hot liquid into jars safely without spills.
• Funnel: Prevents mess when filling jars, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

To make Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell, you’ll need:

• Fresh wild blackberries – about 2 1/2 quarts
• 4 1/2 cups of sugar
• box of Sure-Jell
• 1 tsp butter

How to Make Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Make sure you have all your ingredients and tools ready before starting. This will streamline your process.

Step 2: Prepare the Blackberries

Carefully wash and inspect the blackberries to ensure they are clean.

Step 3: Cook the Blackberries

Place the blackberries in a large pot. Add enough water so that they don’t burn on the bottom. Cook on medium heat for about 15 minutes until they break down.

Step 4: Strain Out the Juice

Strain out the juice using your tight knit strainer. It’s best to do this in small batches to ensure you get all the juice.

Step 5: Measure Juice

You’ll need 3 3/4 cups of blackberry juice for the jelly. If necessary, add up to 1/2 cup of water but remember that too much water will dilute the flavor.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Pour the blackberry juice into a large pot. Add the box of Sure-Jell and butter—this helps reduce foam during cooking.

Step 7: Bring to Boil

Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil while stirring continually.

Step 8: Add Sugar

Once boiling, add the sugar and return to a full rolling boil. Boil for one minute while stirring constantly.

Step 9: Fill Jars

Remove from heat and fill jars up to their necks using a ladle and funnel to avoid spills.

Step 10: Seal Jars

Wipe off any residue from jar tops before putting on lids and rings securely.

Step 11: Water Bath Process

Water bath your filled jars for 10 minutes or set them aside to seal naturally. Listen for pops indicating successful sealing!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell! Whether spread on bread or used in desserts, this jelly is bound to be a favorite.

How to Serve Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Wild blackberry jelly is a delightful treat that can elevate many dishes. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile addition to your meals. Here are some creative ways to serve your homemade jelly.

On Toast or Biscuits

• Spread a generous layer of wild blackberry jelly on warm toast or freshly baked biscuits for a classic breakfast delight.

With Cheese

• Pair the jelly with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The sweetness of the jelly complements the richness of the cheese perfectly.

In Desserts

• Use wild blackberry jelly as a topping for desserts such as cheesecake or ice cream, adding a fruity burst of flavor.

As a Glaze

• Brush wild blackberry jelly over grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a sweet glaze that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

In Yogurt

• Stir wild blackberry jelly into yogurt for an easy and delicious breakfast or snack option, providing both sweetness and fruitiness.

How to Perfect Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

To ensure your wild blackberry jelly turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Berries: Always choose ripe, fresh wild blackberries for the best flavor and color in your jelly.

• Strain Well: Ensure you strain the juice thoroughly to remove all seeds and pulp, resulting in a smoother jelly.

• Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for sugar and juice as they are critical for achieving the right consistency.

• Boil Properly: Bring your mixture to a full rolling boil before adding sugar. This is essential for activating the pectin effectively.

• Check Seals: After processing jars, check that each lid has sealed properly by pressing down in the center; it should not pop back up.

Best Side Dishes for Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Wild blackberry jelly can complement various side dishes beautifully. Here are some great options that pair wonderfully with this fruity spread.

1. Cream Cheese Spread: Combine cream cheese with herbs and spices for a savory dip that balances the sweetness of the jelly.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with wild blackberry jelly drizzled on top.

3. Mixed Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with vinaigrette and add spoonfuls of wild blackberry jelly as a unique dressing alternative.

4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Serve grilled chicken skewers alongside wild blackberry jelly as a dipping sauce to enhance flavors.

5. Pancakes or Waffles: Top fluffy pancakes or waffles with butter and wild blackberry jelly for an indulgent breakfast treat.

6. Cheese Platter: Create a cheese platter featuring assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits, complemented by dollops of wild blackberry jelly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making wild blackberry jelly can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skipping the straining step – Straining the juice from the blackberries is crucial. If you skip this, your jelly may end up with chunks of fruit instead of a smooth texture.
• Boldly overcooking the berries – Cooking the berries too long can lead to a loss of flavor. Aim for about 15 minutes to break them down without losing freshness.
• Boldly ignoring the measurements – Accurate measurements are key for jelly-making. Ensure you use the correct amount of sugar and juice for optimal results.
• Boldly not checking jar seals – After processing, always check that your jars have sealed properly. A proper seal is essential for preservation and safety.
• Boldly rushing the cooling process – Letting the jelly cool completely in a stable environment helps it set properly. Don’t rush this step for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight jars or containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 year.

Freezing Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 years.

Reheating Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

• Oven – Preheat and gently warm in an oven-safe dish until soft.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Warm on low heat, stirring frequently until desired consistency is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making wild blackberry jelly.

How long does Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell last?

Wild blackberry jelly can last up to 1 year when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen blackberries work well, but ensure they are thawed and drained before use.

What if my jelly doesn’t set?

If your jelly doesn’t set, it might need additional boiling time or pectin. You can reprocess it with more Sure-Jell.

Can I customize my Wild Blackberry Jelly recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like raspberries or peaches for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell is not only easy to make but also allows you to capture and enjoy the essence of summer all year round. Feel free to customize your recipe by mixing different fruits or adjusting sweetness levels. Give it a try—you’ll love it!