Jam Making Tips, Tools, and Guidance

Jam making is a method of preserving the bounty of summer. I’m usually happy to trade in a few hours of work to be rewarded all year with memories of sunnier days. While I’m pretty confident in my jam skills, I do not consider myself to be an expert, nor will I spend time writing a recipe or sharing techniques when there are those who do it much better than me. Instead, I’d like to share some resources and point you to Camilla Wynne who is a master preserver. I love that her approach avoids adding an additional step of using a water bath to can. I’ve linked her book, and some articles I’ve found online if you don’t want to purchase. I’ve also shared some tools that you can use to make jam making a breeze. 


Camilla Wynne’s Guidance 

Master Preserver Camilla Wynne Wants You to Stop Worrying and Just Can Your Jam | Saveur - a free primer on canning

KP+: Camilla Wynne's Strawberry Jam - a free recipe

Jam Bake - not free, but I highly recommend this book

Tools for jam (that are also workhorses in your kitchen)

Nordicware Half Baking Sheet - to put your jars in the oven

Nordicware Quarter Baking Sheet - also to put your jars in the oven but smaller

Canning funnel - useful for filling mason jars and other vessels without a mess

Skimmer - I love this skimmer for jams and stocks

Silicone Spatula - I keep several on hand in various sizes to scrape bowls, jars, anything clean. 

Mason jars and lids- go to your local hardware store, big box store, or food co-ops to purchase these as they are much cheaper there than buying online.

Tips

  • Write the name of the jam and date (including the year) on the lid directly with a permanent marker. That way you know that the top has been processed, and won’t reuse when you’re jamming in the future. 

  • Make a plan, and block out time to cook your jam. Play some music, have fun!

    • E.g. evening of day one macerate fruit

    • Day two: spend 2-3 hours on jam - reserve that time

  • Follow the ratios/recipes! This is not a time to skimp on sugar. Sugar is crucial to preservation. 

  • To decide on the size of the jam jar you’ll want to use, begin by thinking of how long it’ll take for you/your family to consume the jam. Once opened, the jam will keep in the fridge for up to one month.


I’m sharing some links to items I use and wholeheartedly recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission if you click through and purchase.