Blackberry pie filling, simmered to perfection and safely canned, offers a taste of summer all year round. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to creating and preserving this delightful treat, addressing common questions and ensuring your canned blackberry pie filling is both delicious and safe for consumption.
What are the Best Blackberries for Canning?
The best blackberries for canning are ripe, but still firm. Avoid using overripe berries, as they'll be mushy and may not hold their shape during canning. Look for berries that are plump and dark in color, indicating optimal sweetness and flavor. While you can use wild blackberries, be extra cautious about their cleanliness before preparing them for canning. Thoroughly wash all blackberries, regardless of their origin.
How to Make Blackberry Pie Filling for Canning: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe yields approximately 7 pints of blackberry pie filling. Adjust quantities based on your needs.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups blackberries (about 6 pounds)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added spice)
Equipment:
- Large stockpot
- Canning jars and lids (pints are recommended)
- Jar lifter
- Water bath canner
- Ladle
- Bubble remover tool
- Kitchen towels
Instructions:
- Prepare the Blackberries: Wash and sort the blackberries, removing any stems or damaged berries.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large stockpot, combine the blackberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and cinnamon (if using).
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the blackberries have softened and released their juices. Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
- Prepare Jars: While the filling simmers, sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. Keep them in hot water until ready to use.
- Fill Jars: Carefully ladle the hot blackberry filling into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace at the top. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles.
- Wipe Rims: Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth.
- Seal Jars: Place the lids and rings on the jars and tighten fingertip tight.
- Process in Water Bath: Place the filled jars in a water bath canner, ensuring they are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and process for 10 minutes (for pints) at altitudes up to 1,000 feet. Adjust processing time according to your altitude – consult a reliable canning resource for proper processing times based on altitude.
- Cool and Check Seals: Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check to ensure all jars have sealed properly (lids should be concave and won't flex when pressed).
How Long Does Canned Blackberry Pie Filling Last?
Properly canned blackberry pie filling, stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, can last for 12-18 months. Always check the seals before using. If a jar doesn't seal, refrigerate it and use it within a week.
Can I Freeze Blackberry Pie Filling Instead of Canning?
Yes, you can freeze blackberry pie filling. Simply cool the cooked filling completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Frozen blackberry pie filling can last for up to 6 months.
What are the Safety Precautions for Canning Blackberry Pie Filling?
- Use a reliable recipe: Follow tested recipes specifically designed for canning.
- Sterilize jars and lids: This is crucial for preventing spoilage.
- Proper headspace: Leaving the correct headspace prevents the jars from breaking during processing.
- Accurate processing time: This ensures the filling is properly preserved.
- Check seals after processing: Ensure all jars have sealed correctly before storing.
- Inspect jars before using: Discard any jars with signs of spoilage (bulging lids, leaking, mold).
By following these steps and safety precautions, you can enjoy the sweet taste of homemade blackberry pie filling throughout the year. Remember, safe canning practices are paramount; always consult reliable canning resources for the most up-to-date information and best practices for your specific altitude.
