Freezer jam...where did I go wrong?

Question

I made a batch of blackberry freezer jam yesterday that never did jell. I measured everything carefully and followed the directions from the MCP pectin packet exactly. What the...? It's always come out before. Any ideas? It still tastes good, just very runny...guess I can use it on ice cream. :( Thanks.

Answer 1

You may not have done anything wrong. Make sure before you use any preservative, such as MCP pectin, Sure Jell, etc., that you check the expiration date on the package. Since this is considered a seasonal product, it is not always replaced or stored properly. The rule of thumb is, if you are not sure, throw it out a use fresh. Also make sure you purchase these items in a high traffic store, as there is a higher turnover.

Answer 2

You may not have boiled the water and the pectin long enough... or stirred the hot pectin/water mixture into the fruit long enough. Also, if you had any part of your measurements "off", like trying to squeeze in a bit more fruit, that can affect how it gels. Since you've made it before, you know it doesn't get "hard" like heat-processed jelly, but should definitely have some consistency to it.

Yep, I'd make blackberry ice cream out of it! :-)