Imagine spreading a spoonful of pure, golden-red sunshine on your morning toast - that's exactly what these Clean Raspberry Preserves with Honey promise! Forget store-bought jams that are loaded with artificial preservatives and sugar. This recipe is a game-changer, transforming simple, fresh raspberries into a luxurious, naturally sweetened preserve that will elevate your breakfast and dessert game. With just a handful of ingredients and some culinary magic, you'll create a preserve so delicious, your family and friends will be begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Preserves
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash fresh raspberries under cool running water, gently patting them dry with clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Select a heavy-bottomed stainless steel or copper saucepan with a wide bottom to ensure even heat distribution during cooking.
- Place raspberries into the saucepan and add honey, stirring gently to coat the berries without crushing them completely.
- Add fresh lemon juice and salt to the raspberry and honey mixture, which will help balance flavors and assist with natural pectin activation.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat, allowing the ingredients to slowly warm and release their natural juices.
- Stir the mixture occasionally, using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Continue cooking, maintaining a gentle simmer, and watch for the mixture to thicken and reduce, approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Test the preserve's consistency by placing a small amount on a chilled plate - it should wrinkle slightly when pushed with a finger.
- Remove from heat and let the preserves cool for 5-10 minutes, which will allow further natural thickening.
- Carefully transfer the preserves into clean, sterilized glass jars, leaving a small headspace at the top.
- Allow preserves to cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
Tips
- Use the freshest raspberries possible for the most vibrant flavor and natural pectin.
- Choose a wide-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution and faster reduction.
- Stir gently to maintain raspberry texture - you want some whole berries for a rustic feel.
- Use a candy thermometer if you want precise temperature control during cooking.
- Sterilize your glass jars beforehand to ensure longer preservation.
- For a smoother preserve, you can lightly mash some raspberries during cooking.
- Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness.
- Consider adding a vanilla bean or cinnamon stick during cooking for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
