You could always pick up a jar of jam at your local grocery store, but it’s likely full of added sugar and artificial ingredients. Why not make your own instead? This black currant jam is a great option.

Nothing is more delicious than a heaping spoonful of fresh homemade jam spread over a toasty English muffin or stirred into a cup of creamy Greek yogurt. If you want to learn how to make your own jam from scratch, you’ve come to the right place!

But you won’t be learning how to make some humdrum strawberry jelly or grape jam. No, you’ll be stepping out of the box of ordinary jams to make something truly unique and delicious – black currant jam! Keep reading to learn how to make this tasty treat and to receive tips for enjoying it.

Here’s the recipe!

Easy Homemade Black Currant Jam

Black currants have a tart flavor but, because they are much less common in the United States than in Europe, it is one with which most Americans are unfamiliar. This homemade black currant jam is a great way to taste-test these little berries but, if you aren’t fond of the tartness, you can mix in other berries like raspberries or blackberries.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh black currants
• 2 cups water
• 1.5 pounds honey
• 1.5 pounds coconut sugar

Instructions

1. Rinse the black currents well in water, pulling the berries off the stalks and throwing away the stems.
2. Place the berries in a preserving pan and add the water.
3. Bring to a boil then simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes until the berries have softened.
4. Stir in the cane honey and coconut sugar and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugars dissolve.
5. Boil gently for 10 minutes then test the set of the jam by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate in the fridge.
6. After the 5 minutes is up, press lightly on the jam – if it has the right jam-like consistency, remove the jam from the heat.
7. If the jam is not yet set, bring it back to a bubble for a few minutes then test again.
8. When the jam has set, let cool at room temperature for 10 minutes.
9. Spoon the jam into sterilizes canning jars and cool completely before covering with the lid.
10. Store the jars in a cool, dry place and transfer to the refrigerator after opening.

Tips for Making Homemade Jam

When making homemade jam, it is important to choose high-quality ingredients – the freshness of the fruit is the most important factor. In addition to choosing fresh fruit, you’ll need to consider the pectin content of the fruit so you know how much to add to ensure that the jam sets properly. Black currants have high pectin content, so you won’t have to add a lot extra – adding a little lemon juice to the jam mix will also help it set.

In terms of sweetening your black currant jam, you have many options. If you want to go the natural route, choose pure cane sugar or a natural sweetener like stevia. Keep in mind that conversion rates vary – it may be best to start with a little bit and then adjust the sweetness level to taste. With a high-pectin fruit like black currants you won’t have to worry about choosing a fine sugar – regular granulated sugar will dissolve just fine as long as you boil it properly.

How to Enjoy Your Black Currant Jam

So, you’ve made your own batch of homemade black currant jam – now what?

There’s no better way to enjoy a fresh batch of homemade jam than to spread it on a thick slice of crusty bread toasted to perfection. But that isn’t the only way to enjoy this tasty jam recipe. Here are some ideas to try:

1. Jam Tartlets

These tasty little treats can be made with store-bought pastry cut in circles and pressed into a mini muffin tin. Then, simply fill with jam and top with a second layer of crust before baking to golden perfection.

2. Cheesecake Ice Cream

Are you a fan of homemade ice cream? Try making some black currant cheesecake ice cream at home! For creamy indulgence use a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream or go for a healthier version with canned coconut milk.

3. Bakewell Tart

A traditional British recipe, a Bakewell tart consists of short-crust pastry with layers of jam and frangipane. Try it for yourself and give it a unique twist by using your homemade black currant jam!

4. Miniature Shortcakes

Whip up a batch of miniature shortcakes using a muffin pan then cut them in half and fill with black currant jam and fresh cream. It’s the perfect pairing for a midday snack or afternoon tea!

5. Fruity Popsicles

Looking for a refreshing summer treat? Thin your black currant jam with water or fruit juice then freeze until solid in popsicle molds. It’s definitely better than store-bought!

With so many options to enjoy this delicious black currant jam, you’re probably eager to try it for yourself. What’s stopping you?

Want to learn more about the benefits of black currants? Check out here.