Cassis Blackcurrant Jam And Preserves: Homemade Recipes

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 22, 2025

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Selecting and Preparing the Blackcurrants

The key to truly exceptional cassis blackcurrant jam lies in the quality of your ingredients. Selecting ripe, plump blackcurrants is crucial for achieving that deep, intense flavor. Choosing the right blackcurrants for your homemade blackcurrant jam is the first step to success.

• Sourcing High-Quality Blackcurrants: Look for blackcurrants at your local farmers market for the freshest, most flavorful berries. If you're lucky enough to have a blackcurrant bush in your garden, harvest them at their peak ripeness.
• Checking for Ripeness: Ripe blackcurrants are dark purple-almost black-and plump to the touch. Avoid berries that are soft or show signs of damage.
• Washing and Stemming: Gently wash the blackcurrants under cool running water. Remove any stems or leaves, but be careful not to crush the berries. A colander makes this process much easier.

Classic Cassis Blackcurrant Jam Recipe

This recipe yields approximately 4-5 jars of delicious cassis blackcurrant jam.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg ripe blackcurrants
• 750g granulated sugar
• Juice of 1 lemon
• (Optional) 1 sachet (or 2 tbsp) liquid pectin for a firmer set

Instructions:

1. Combine the blackcurrants and sugar in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Gently crush the berries with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to release their juices. Avoid over-crushing.
2. Add the lemon juice. This helps with setting and adds a touch of brightness to the flavor.
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. If using pectin, add it according to the package instructions, usually at the beginning of the boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the setting point is reached (a small amount dropped onto a chilled plate wrinkles when pushed with a finger). This is crucial for achieving the perfect blackcurrant jam consistency.
5. Remove from the heat and carefully skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
6. Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
7. Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal tightly with the lids.
8. Inversion Method: Turn the jars upside down for 5 minutes to seal and then let them cool completely.

Variations on the Cassis Blackcurrant Jam Theme

Once you've mastered the classic recipe, explore the endless possibilities for flavor variations!

• Blackcurrant and Raspberry Jam: Add 500g of fresh raspberries to the blackcurrants for a delightful fruity twist. Adjust sugar accordingly depending on the sweetness of the raspberries.
• Spiced Blackcurrant Jam: Enhance the flavor with a warm spice. Add 1 cinnamon stick and a few cloves during the simmering stage. Remove the spices before jarring.
• Cassis Liqueur Blackcurrant Jam (for adults only): Add 50ml of cassis liqueur to the jam during the last few minutes of cooking for a sophisticated adult treat.

Storing and Preserving Your Cassis Blackcurrant Jam

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of your homemade cassis blackcurrant jam.

• Sealing Techniques: Ensure your jars are properly sealed to prevent spoilage. The inversion method (inverting the jars after filling) helps to create a vacuum seal.
• Storage Conditions: Store your jam in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid direct sunlight.
• Shelf Life: Properly stored cassis blackcurrant jam will typically last for 1-2 years.
• Signs of Spoilage: Discard any jam that shows signs of mold, fermentation (bubbling), or an unusual odor.

Conclusion

Making your own cassis blackcurrant jam is a rewarding experience, resulting in a superior product bursting with fresh, fruity flavor. By following these simple steps and recipes, you can create delicious homemade blackcurrant preserves that will impress your family and friends. Start making your own delicious cassis blackcurrant jam today! Try our easy blackcurrant jam recipe now and experience the difference! Explore the world of homemade cassis preserves and discover your new favorite homemade treat! [Optional link to printable recipes here]