Nothing beats homemade jam, especially when it’s bursting with the flavors of fresh berries and fragrant vanilla. This Mixed Berry & Vanilla Jam is a delightful combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries simmered to perfection with a hint of vanilla for an elegant twist.

It’s a versatile spread that pairs beautifully with toast, biscuits, pancakes, or even as a filling for desserts. Plus, it’s an easy, foolproof recipe that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Made with fresh, natural ingredients
No artificial preservatives
Easy to prepare in under an hour
Versatile – perfect for breakfast, desserts, or gifting
Customizable with your favorite berries

Ingredients

2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
1 cup blackberries
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 vanilla pod (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
1 tbsp lemon juice

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare the berries
Wash the berries thoroughly and remove any stems. Hull the strawberries and cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
Combine ingredients
In a large saucepan, add the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. If using a vanilla pod, split it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the saucepan.
Cook the jam
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the berries begin to release their juices. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer and thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. As the jam cooks, it will thicken and take on a glossy appearance.
Check the consistency
To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s done. If it’s still runny, cook for a few more minutes.
Remove the vanilla pod
Once the jam has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the vanilla pod from the mixture.
Cool and store
Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars. Seal the jars and let them cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for longer storage.

Variations

Mixed Citrus Jam
Swap the vanilla with a mix of lemon and orange zest for a tangy twist.
Spiced Berry Jam
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the jam for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for fall and winter.
Honey-Sweetened Jam
Replace the granulated sugar with honey for a more natural sweetener option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Frozen berries work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them slightly before cooking and adjust the cooking time if necessary.

2. How can I make the jam thicker?
If you prefer a thicker jam, you can add a tablespoon of pectin or increase the cooking time to allow more liquid to evaporate.

3. How long does this jam last?
When stored in sterilized jars in the refrigerator, the jam will last for up to two weeks. If you freeze it, it can last for several months.

4. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, but keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative in jam. Reducing the sugar may shorten the shelf life, so be sure to consume it sooner or store it in the freezer.

How to Serve

Spread it on toast, muffins, or bagels for a quick and easy breakfast.
Use it as a filling for cakes, pastries, or thumbprint cookies.
Pair it with a cheese platter for a sweet and savory appetizer.
Add a spoonful to yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls for extra flavor.
Package it in decorative jars for a beautiful homemade gift.