Blueberry Bourbon Jam Recipe Made Without Pectin 

This Blueberry Bourbon Jam recipe is a fun twist on the classic blueberry jam we all love. By adding a hint of bourbon, this jam gets a unique, rich flavor that’s a bit more grown-up but still super tasty.

The sweet and tart blueberries mix perfectly with the smooth, warm bourbon, making it a hit for breakfast or as a special treat on toast or pastries. It’s easy to make without fruit pectin and adds a cool new spin to the traditional jam you might already know.

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Blueberries in The South 

In the South, blueberries are in season from late May to July. These little berries are super versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

You can toss them into your morning cereal, bake them into muffins, or even use them in salads and sauces for a tasty twist. Growing blueberries in the southern states is pretty easy, too.

They love the warm weather and just need a sunny spot and some well-drained soil to thrive. So, if you have a little garden space, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown blueberries all summer long! 

Why You’ll Love Blueberry Bourbon Jam

• It’s a special take on regular blueberry jam with a splash of bourbon, making it a sure crowd-pleaser.
• Spread it on a buttery biscuit for the perfect balance of bourbon and a delicious brunch treat.
• Use it as a unique ice-cream topper, especially on vanilla bean ice cream.
• This simple jam is super easy to make with very few ingredients.
• Made with fresh blueberries, it has a delicious, natural flavor.
• Great in yogurt, on pancakes, or even in savory dishes like grilled chicken.
• Add ¼ cup of the blueberry bourbon jam, and squeeze half a lime into sparkling water for a fresh blueberry jam cocktail.  
• Serve the jam on top of softened cream cheese with a salty Ritz cracker for a delicious appetizer. 
• Serve the jam with tangy soft cheeses and meats for charcuterie boards. 
• Serve this as a finishing sauce on grilled chicken pork. 

How to Make Blueberry Bourbon Jam 

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Equipment 

• Large saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons 
• 4 sterilized half-pint canning jars and lids 
• Cold saucer
• Sieve
• Large mixing bowl 
• Canning Funnel 
• Water Bath canner (optional) 
• Spatula 

Ingredients 

• 6 cups (around 2 lbs) fresh blueberries 
• 1 ½ cup granulated sugar 
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 
• 2-3 tablespoons bourbon depending on your taste. 

Directions 

1. Start by rinsing the blueberries really well under cold water and removing any stems. Place a saucer in the freezer to get cold.
2. In a large pot, combine the blueberries, cane sugar, and lemon juice over medium-high heat. Bring everything to a boil until the sugar is dissolved and the berries begin to burst. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. Mash the blueberries with a potato masher while stirring to create more juice.
3. After the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue simmering and stirring for around 15 minutes or until the jam has thickened.
4. During the last 5 minutes of cooking time, stir in the bourbon. You don’t want to add it too soon, or it will completely dissolve.

6. Perform a saucer test on the jam to see if it’s set: spoon a small amount of jam onto the cold saucer and let it slightly cool. The jam should wrinkle or have a little bit of film when you move it on the plate. It should also be thick and not very runny.
7. Place a sieve on top of a large mixing bowl and strain the jam through it to remove any skins and seeds. This will create a smooth jam.
8. After straining, use a jar funnel to spoon the jam into clean half-pint jars. Be sure to clean the rims with white vinegar before adding the lids. Let the jam cool and set. Store in the fridge for around 4 weeks or use a water bath canning method to seal the jars by processing for 10 minutes. There are so many different reasons you should be canning! 

This blueberry bourbon jam recipe has a unique flavor that’s perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or even as a topping for desserts.

Helpful Tips 

The juicier the berries, the better your jam will turn out. quality, all natural ingredients will give your jam a sweet and vibrant flavor.

Smaller batches are easier to manage and ensure that all the flavors blend perfectly. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment without making too much at once.

Stir in the bourbon during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This keeps the bourbon from completely evaporating and gives your jam rich, vanilla undertones.

Keep stirring the mixture while it cooks to prevent it from burning and sticking to the pot. This helps keep the jam smooth and evenly cooked.

To check if your jam is set, spoon a small amount onto a cold saucer. If it wrinkles or forms a slight film when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.

After cooking, strain the jam through a sieve to remove skins and seeds. This will give your jam a silky, smooth texture.

Make sure your jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before filling them with jam. This is important for storing and keeping your jam fresh for longer.

This jam is a wonderful treat on biscuits, morning toast, pancakes, English muffins, or even as a unique topping for vanilla bean ice cream.

The combination of natural flavors of the blueberries and warm bourbon creates a rich, complex taste. Each bite offers layers of flavor that are both sweet and slightly boozy.

Homemade jam makes for a thoughtful and delicious present. Package it in a pretty jar with a ribbon, and you have a great gift for friends and family.

Try adding 1 tsp of vanilla extract and cardamom spice for a unique, next level flavor you’ll love. 

Blueberry Bourbon Jam Recipe FAQs

How long does it take to make this jam?

The total time for making this jam is about an hour, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before using.

What other flavors go well with blueberry bourbon jam?

You can add a pinch of cardamom to make blueberry bourbon cardamom jam for a unique twist.

How do I store the jam?

Store your jam in clean, sterilized jars. It will keep in the fridge for about 4 weeks.

Can I use this jam in blueberry cocktails?

Absolutely! It makes a great addition to blueberry bourbon cocktails. Just mix a spoonful into your favorite bourbon drink for a fruity twist.

Can I double the recipe?

It’s better to make small batches to ensure the flavors blend well and the jam sets properly.

What if my jam is too runny?

If your jam is too runny, try cooking it a bit longer or adding a bit more sugar to help it set.

Can I use less sugar?

You can reduce the sugar, but it might affect the jam’s ability to set. Experiment with small amounts to find what works best for you.

Is it safe to can this jam?

Yes, you can use a water bath canning method to seal the jars. Process half-pint jars for 10 minutes.

What if I don’t have a sieve?

If you don’t have a sieve, you can skip straining the jam. It will have a chunkier texture but still taste delicious.

Blueberry Bourbon Jam- Final Thoughts 

This blueberry bourbon jam recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves unique and delicious treats. It’s a versatile jam that can be used on biscuits, toast, or even as a topping for vanilla bean ice cream.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a jam that’s packed with juicy blueberries and a splash of bourbon for a rich depth of flavor. Whether you’re making it for yourself or giving it as a gift, this jam is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it! 

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