Blackberry - Asian Pear Jam Canning Recipe

Marie Overton
a few seconds ago
3 min read

Canning can be a fun and satisfying way to capture the deliciousness of summer and autumn, especially when pairing rich blackberries with sweet Asian pears. This fantastic recipe not only preserves the flavors of these fruits but also creates a tasty jam that you can enjoy throughout the year. Regardless of your canning experience, you will find this process straightforward and rewarding.

Why Choose Blackberry and Asian Pear?

Blackberries are packed with flavor and visual appeal, while Asian pears offer a light and natural sweetness. Together, they create a delightful balance that is not only tasty but also nutritious. In fact, blackberries are high in antioxidants, while Asian pears provide fiber and vitamin C.

Combining these fruits results in not just a jam but a versatile spread. You can smother it on your morning toast, drizzle it over desserts, or stir it into yogurt for a refreshing snack. The options are endless!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before diving into the canning process, gather these essentials:

3 cups of fresh or frozen blackberries
3 cups of Asian pear pulp: cored, peeled, quartered and mashed
7 cups of granulated sugar
1/4 cup of lemon juice
6 tablespoons of fruit pectin
1/8 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon of butter (optional to reduce foaming)
water (for softening the pears)

For the best results, choose ripe blackberries and firm Asian pears. Proper fruit selection can significantly enhance your final product.

Preparing the Fruit

Begin by washing the blackberries carefully under cold water. Remove any stems or leaves and let them dry in a large bowl.

Hands holding a mango on a wooden cutting board, using a turquoise-handled peeler to remove the skin. Background features a textured pattern.

Then, prep your Asian pears by peeling and coring them. Cut the pears into quarters.

Hands cutting a peeled pear on a wooden cutting board. A peeler and brownish peelings are visible. The setting is a kitchen counter.

Place pears in a pot with enough water to cover the bottom and simmer them until soft.

Once both fruits are ready, mash them in a large pot.

Cooking the Mixture

Add the lemon juice, pectin and butter (if using) to your pot filled with the blackberries and Asian pears.

A pot on a stovetop with sugar and a wooden spoon. Hands hold a yellow bowl. Hexagonal tile backsplash and dark countertop visible.

Set the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir it frequently to prevent sticking. Once you reach a rolling boil, add the sugar. Bring it back to a boil and set a timer for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Remove from the heat and add the vanilla.

blackberry asian pear jam Canning Process

While your fruit mixture is cooking, prepare your canning jars.

Ladle pouring dark berry jam into jars on a granite countertop. Several empty jars are nearby, with jam pot partially visible.

Once your mixture is ready, carefully pour or ladle it into the half pint jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Clean the rims of the jars with a cloth to eliminate residue, then place the lids on top and screw on the bands until they are just fingertip-tight.

Now, process your jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if you are at sea level. If you need to know how altitude affects the amount of time you process your jars check out my canning basics video/post. . (This step is essential for safety and helps preserve the jam for longer shelving.)

Chalkboard with water bath times for altitudes, next to jars of preserves on a counter. Text: Water Bath and altitude-time info.

Cooling and Storing

After processing, allow to cool in the water bath with the heat off and the lid removed for 5 minutes.

At the end of the cooling time, carefully remove the jars, with a jar lifter, from the water bath and place them on a heat resistant surface about 1-2 inches apart. Allow them to cool completely for 24 hours.

Once cool, test the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed correctly. Store your sealed jars in a cool, dark spot. For any unsealed jars, place them in your refrigerator to use within a few weeks.

Enjoying Your Creation

Jars of red jam with metal lids, an orange pear, and frozen blackberries on a wooden board. A dark liquid in a glass bottle nearby.

Your delicious blackberry and Asian pear jam is ready to enjoy! Spread it on warm toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or savor it straight from the jar. The possibilities really are endless.

This jam also makes a fantastic gift. Consider preparing a batch for friends and family, especially around the holidays. Simply add a charming label and ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade present.

Wrapping Up

Canning blackberry and Asian pear jam is a rewarding experience that not only captures the flavors of these fruits but also adds a special touch to your pantry. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful treat that enhances your meals all year round.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and get started with this canning recipe today. You won’t be disappointed!