Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Making wild blackberry jelly with Sure Jell is not only a delightful way to preserve the essence of summer, but it also allows you to enjoy the sweet and tart flavor of fresh blackberries all year long. This homemade jelly can elevate your breakfast routine, complement desserts, or serve as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll find that crafting this delicious treat is both satisfying and rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it perfect for beginners.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh wild blackberries and sugar creates a rich, fruity taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Uses: Spread it on toast, use it in desserts, or even mix it into savory dishes for an unexpected twist.
• Year-Round Enjoyment: By canning this jelly, you can enjoy the taste of summer whenever you like.
• Gift-Worthy: Homemade jelly makes for a thoughtful gift that anyone would appreciate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the process of making wild blackberry jelly with Sure Jell, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and ensures consistent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Ladle
• Funnel
• Canning jars with lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Needed to cook down the blackberries evenly without burning them.
• Strainer: Essential for extracting juice from the berries while keeping seeds out.
• Ladle: Makes transferring jelly into jars neat and easy.
• Funnel: Prevents spills when filling jars.

Ingredients

To make your own wild blackberry jelly with Sure Jell, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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: Prepare Your Berries

1. Gather all supplies needed.
2. Carefully wash and inspect the blackberries to remove any debris or stems.

Step 2: Cook the Blackberries

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

Step 3: Extract Juice

1. Strain out the juice using a tight-knit strainer.
2. It’s best to do this in small batches for better extraction.
3. Ensure you have about 3 3/4 cups of blackberry juice.
4. If needed, you can add up to 1/2 cup of water; however, more water will dilute the flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour the blackberry juice back into a large pot.
2. Add in the box of Sure-Jell and butter.
3. The butter helps reduce foam as it heats up.

Step 5: Boil Mixture

1. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil while stirring continually.
2. Add sugar all at once and return to a rolling boil.
3. Boil for exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Jar Your Jelly

1. Remove from heat and fill jars to the neck using a ladle and funnel to prevent spills.
2. Wipe off tops of jars with a clean cloth before sealing them with lids and rings.

Step 7: Seal Your Jelly

1. Process jars in a water bath for 10 minutes or set aside to seal naturally.
2. Listen for pops indicating that your jelly has sealed properly.

Now you’re ready to taste your homemade wild blackberry jelly! Enjoy it fresh on toast or keep it stored for later use—either way, it’s bound to be a hit!

How to Serve Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Wild blackberry jelly is a delightful treat that can enhance various dishes and snacks. Whether you enjoy it on toast or as part of a dessert, there are many creative ways to serve this sweet spread.

On Toast and Bread

• Classic Breakfast: Spread a generous layer of wild blackberry jelly on warm toast for a simple yet delicious breakfast.
• Fancy Brioche: Use brioche slices for an indulgent treat. Top with a dollop of cream cheese for extra richness.

As a Dessert Topping

• Ice Cream Delight: Drizzle wild blackberry jelly over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Pancake Perfection: Use the jelly as a topping on pancakes or waffles, adding a fruity twist to your brunch.

In Savory Dishes

• Glazed Chicken: Brush wild blackberry jelly over grilled chicken before serving for a sweet glaze that complements the savory flavors.
• Cheese Platter: Pair the jelly with assorted cheeses on a charcuterie board; it adds a lovely contrast to sharp or creamy cheeses.

How to Perfect Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Perfecting wild blackberry jelly takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve the best results every time.

• Bold Berry Selection: Choose ripe, fresh wild blackberries for maximum flavor. Overripe or under ripe berries can affect the taste.
• Bold Straining Technique: Strain the juice carefully to avoid bitterness from seeds. A fine mesh strainer works best.
• Bold Measurement Accuracy: Measure your blackberry juice precisely; too little or too much can alter the set of your jelly.
• Bold Boiling Point: Ensure you bring the mixture to a full rolling boil before adding sugar. This step is crucial for proper setting.
• Bold Jar Preparation: Sterilize jars before filling them with jelly. This helps preserve freshness and prevents spoilage.

Best Side Dishes for Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

Wild blackberry jelly pairs beautifully with various side dishes, enhancing their flavors with its sweetness. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The creaminess of melted cheese contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the jelly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Add a touch of wild blackberry jelly to roasted vegetables for an unexpected sweet glaze.
3. Savory Biscuits: Serve warm biscuits alongside wild blackberry jelly for a comforting addition to any meal.
4. Fruit Salad: Toss fresh fruits together and drizzle with wild blackberry jelly for added sweetness and flavor.
5. Pork Tenderloin Substitute (Chicken): Glaze chicken tenderloin with wild blackberry jelly while roasting for an exciting flavor profile.
6. Quinoa Salad: Mix quinoa with nuts and greens, then top with wild blackberry jelly for a unique twist on traditional salads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Bold ingredient selection: Using unripe or damaged blackberries can lead to poor flavor. Always choose fresh, ripe berries for the best taste.
• Bold not mashing enough: Failing to mash the blackberries thoroughly will result in insufficient juice. Ensure you extract as much juice as possible for rich flavor.
• Bold omitting butter: Skipping the butter may cause excessive foam while boiling. Adding butter helps reduce foam and makes the process smoother.
• Bold incorrect boiling time: Not boiling long enough after adding sugar can affect jelly consistency. Keep it at a full rolling boil for one minute while stirring continuously.
• Bold ignoring jar preparation: Neglecting to wipe jar rims can prevent proper sealing. Make sure to clean the tops before placing lids on.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store wild blackberry jelly in sealed jars.
• It can last for up to one year in the refrigerator once opened.

Freezing Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

• Freeze jelly in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars.
• It can be stored frozen for up to two years, maintaining flavor.

Reheating Wild Blackberry Jelly with Sure Jell

• Oven: Place the jar in a preheated oven at low temperature until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making wild blackberry jelly with Sure Jell.

Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries; just ensure they are thawed and well-drained before starting.

How do I know if my jelly has set properly?

Check by spooning a small amount onto a cold plate and running your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it’s ready!

What can I do if my jelly doesn’t set?

If your jelly does not set, you may reheat it with additional Sure-Jell according to package instructions.

How long does wild blackberry jelly last?

Properly sealed and stored, it can last up to a year in the pantry and about one month once opened in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Wild blackberry jelly with Sure Jell is a simple yet delightful way to capture summer’s essence. This versatile recipe allows for customization by adding spices or mixing other fruits. Try making this jelly and enjoy a burst of fresh flavor all year round!