The sun is shining, the air is filled with the fragrance of blooming flowers, and it’s the perfect time for summer canning! There’s something truly delightful about making homemade preserves, and my Blueberry & Lavender Jam is a shining star among them. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the rich sweetness of blueberries with the subtle floral notes of lavender, turning your breakfast toast into an aromatic experience. Not only is it a treat for yourself, but it’s also a thoughtful gift for friends and family, making it a standout choice for your pantry. With its beginner-friendly approach and ability to elevate any dish, this jam is a must-try for anyone eager to embrace the market’s bounty. So, are you ready to spread a little sunshine on your next meal?
Why is Blueberry & Lavender Jam special?
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of rich blueberries and floral lavender creates a jam that’s both sweet and aromatic, transforming everyday meals into gourmet experiences.
Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is super simple to follow, making it perfect for novice canners who want to explore homemade preserves.
Crowd-Pleasing Gift: Share love and creativity by gifting this homemade treat; it’s a delightful way to show appreciation.
Versatile Usage: Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a dessert topping for yogurt or ice cream. The options are endless, just like with our Lemon Blueberry Lasagna!
Seasonal Preserving: This jam captures the essence of summer harvest, allowing you to savor those flavors throughout the year. Embrace seasonal produce and create something memorable!
Blueberry & Lavender Jam Ingredients
For the Jam
- Blueberries – The star ingredient that provides natural sweetness; fresh or frozen options work beautifully.
- Honey – Adds a hint of floral sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste, and you can substitute with sugar if preferred.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the jam and balances sweetness; always use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Lemon Juice – Brings acidity to the mix, preventing the jam from being overly sweet; fresh juice is highly recommended.
- Lavender Buds – Imparts a lovely floral aroma; make sure they are culinary-grade and crush lightly to release their oils.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry & Lavender Jam
Step 1: Prepare Lavender
Start by lightly crushing the culinary-grade lavender buds with a mortar and pestle to release their aromatic oils, which will enhance the flavor of your Blueberry & Lavender Jam. This should take around 2-3 minutes. Set aside the crushed lavender while you prep the other ingredients; the bouquet of fragrance will be a delightful hint of what’s to come!
Step 2: Cook Blueberry Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen blueberries, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir often for about 5-7 minutes until the blueberries soften and start to break down. You’ll notice the mixture bubbling gently; mash it with a fork or potato masher to your desired consistency, creating a luscious base for your jam.
Step 3: Simmer
Lower the heat slightly and let the blueberry mixture simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the bubbles increase; skim off any foam that forms on the surface for a smoother texture. You’re looking for the mixture to become thickened and glossy, reaching about 220°F (105°C) on a candy thermometer or passing the wrinkle test by placing a small amount on a chilled plate.
Step 4: Mix in Lavender
Once you achieve the right consistency, stir in the previously crushed lavender buds. This step only takes a couple of minutes, and you’ll immediately notice the enchanting fragrance take over as it blends into the jam. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that distinctive Blueberry & Lavender Jam taste.
Step 5: Jar the Jam
Carefully pour your warm jam into sterilized half-pint jars, filling them to about a quarter inch from the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth and secure the lids. If you plan to store your jam long-term, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. If short-term, simply let them cool to room temperature and then refrigerate, enjoying your homemade Blueberry & Lavender Jam within one month!
Blueberry & Lavender Jam Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can enhance your Blueberry & Lavender Jam experience!
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Maple Syrup: Swap honey for maple syrup to impart a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the floral notes beautifully. This change gives the jam a unique twist that’s perfect for those who prefer a different sweetener.
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Herbal Infusion: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of lavender for an unexpected flavor journey. This herb swap adds depth and a savory hint, perfect for pairing with cheeses or meats.
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Mixed Berries: Combine blueberries with other berries like strawberries or blackberries for a vibrant mixed berry jam. This variation not only adds color but creates a unique flavor profile that’s both familiar and adventurous.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of grated ginger to introduce a gentle heat. This variation opens up a whole new dimension of flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet and floral base.
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Lavender Lemonade Jam: Brighten up your jam by incorporating additional lemon juice and zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor. This variation is perfect for summer days, bringing sunshine and zest to every bite.
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Chia Seed Jam: For a healthier twist, replace half of the blueberries with chia seeds to create a jam with added fiber and nutrition. The chia seeds will gel with the mixture, giving your jam a delightful texture.
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Citrus Blend: Try adding orange or grapefruit zest along with the lemon for a citrusy burst that enhances the jam’s brightness. This creates a lively and zesty jam that’s absolutely refreshing on toast or pancakes.
If you’re keen on experimenting with flavors, check out our Lemon Blueberry Lasagna for more ideas to perk up your cooking! Embrace creativity in the kitchen—you won’t be disappointed!
How to Store and Freeze Blueberry & Lavender Jam
Fridge: Store your Blueberry & Lavender Jam in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Ensure jars are tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent odors from other foods.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars for up to 1 year. Leave some headspace in containers to allow for expansion.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Blueberry & Lavender Jam, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until spreadable.
Shelf Life: Once opened, any remaining jam should be refrigerated and consumed within a month for the best taste and quality.
Expert Tips for Blueberry & Lavender Jam
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Foam Removal: Skim any foam while cooking to achieve a smoother texture and prettier presentation for your Blueberry & Lavender Jam.
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Runny Jam Fix: If your jam is still runny, don’t worry! Just simmer longer and check with the wrinkle test again until it thickens properly.
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Jar Sterilization: Always ensure your jars are fully sterilized before filling; this is key to preventing spoilage and ensuring a long shelf life.
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Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your taste preference, but be mindful that sweeter jams can impact the texture slightly.
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Flavor Infusion: For a more concentrated flavor, allow the lavender buds to steep in the blueberry mixture for a bit longer before jarring.
What to Serve with Blueberry & Lavender Jam
There’s nothing quite like the joy of complementing this sweet, aromatic preserve with delightful accompaniments that enhance your dining experience.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: Spoon this jam over Greek yogurt for a perfect breakfast or snack. The creaminess balances the floral notes beautifully.
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Cheese Platter: Pair with soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie. The jam provides a burst of flavor that beautifully contrasts the rich textures.
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Fluffy Pancakes: Drizzle the jam on fluffy pancakes for a delightful twist. Each bite will be a sweet explosion of berry goodness!
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Scones or Biscuits: Serve alongside freshly baked scones or biscuits. The warm, buttery flavor mingles perfectly with the jam, elevating afternoon tea.
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Ice Cream Sundae: Add a spoonful to your favorite ice cream for a refreshing dessert. The floral hints add a gourmet touch to a classic treat.
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Savory Toasts: Top hearty whole grain toast with cream cheese, jam, and fresh arugula for a light lunch. This combo contrasts sweet and savory beautifully.
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Muffins or Cupcakes: Use as a filling in muffins or as a topping for vanilla cupcakes. The blend of flavors creates a uniquely scrumptious dessert.
Embrace your creativity and discover all the possibilities that this Blueberry & Lavender Jam brings to your table!
Make Ahead Options
These Blueberry & Lavender Jam creations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the blueberry mixture (steps 2 and 3) up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help the flavors meld beautifully while preventing browning. When you’re ready to finish your jam, just reheat the mixture gently in a saucepan, stir in the crushed lavender (step 4), and jar it as per step 5. This way, you’ll have a fresh, homemade preserve ready for your breakfast table with minimal effort and just as delightful as a freshly made batch!
Blueberry & Lavender Jam Recipe FAQs
What type of blueberries should I use for my jam?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen blueberries for this recipe. Fresh blueberries usually yield the best flavor, but if you have frozen ones on hand, they’ll work just as well. Just ensure they’re not sugary or syrup-packed.
How long can I store my Blueberry & Lavender Jam?
Your homemade jam can be refrigerated for up to 1 month. Ensure that the jars are tightly sealed to keep the jam fresh and to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge.
Can I freeze Blueberry & Lavender Jam for later use?
Yes, definitely! You can freeze your jam for up to 1 year. Simply pour the jam into airtight containers or freezer-safe jars, ensuring you leave some headspace for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight.
What if my jam is too runny?
Don’t worry! If you find that your blueberry jam is runny, try simmering it longer while stirring regularly. Aim for it to reach 220°F (105°C) or pass the wrinkle test by placing a small dollop on a chilled plate. If needed, you can also add a bit more crushed fruit and continue to simmer until it thickens. This may take an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can pets safely consume Blueberry & Lavender Jam?
It’s important to note that while blueberries are safe for dogs in small quantities, the honey and lavender can be concerning. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing any homemade jams with pets. The lavender, especially, should be avoided as it may cause gastrointestinal distress.
How can I tell if my lavender buds are culinary-grade?
Great question! To ensure your lavender buds are culinary-grade, look for a label that indicates they’re safe for cooking. They should smell fragrant yet not pungent, and typically be found in the herb section of health food stores or online. If in doubt, you can always consult the seller or opt for organic products.
Blueberry & Lavender Jam: A Sweet Summer Delight for You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly crush the culinary-grade lavender buds to release their aromatic oils. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Lower heat and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened. Skim off any foam.
- Stir in the crushed lavender buds and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars and process or cool as needed.
