Canning Blueberry Pie Filling: A Delicious Way to Enjoy Summer's Bounty Year-Round
Blueberry pie is a beloved summer treat, but its deliciousness doesn't have to be confined to the warm months. With a little effort, you can preserve the vibrant flavor and juicy texture of fresh blueberries in the form of canned blueberry pie filling. This way, you can enjoy the comforting taste of homemade blueberry pie whenever the craving strikes.
Why Can Blueberry Pie Filling?
- Preserves Fresh Flavor: Canning locks in the freshness of summer blueberries, ensuring you have a delicious and ready-to-use filling throughout the year.
- Convenience: Having canned blueberry pie filling on hand means you can whip up a pie in minutes, without the hassle of prepping fresh fruit.
- Perfect for Gifting: Share the deliciousness with friends and family by gifting them jars of your homemade blueberry pie filling.
Essential Equipment for Canning Blueberry Pie Filling:
- Canning Jars: Choose wide-mouth canning jars for easy filling and removal of the pie filling.
- Canning Pot: A large pot specifically designed for canning with a rack to hold jars.
- Jar Lifter: A tool to safely lift hot jars from the boiling water.
- Funnel: A wide-mouth funnel to prevent spills while filling jars.
- Lid Lifter Magnet: A handy tool to lift hot lids from the boiling water.
- Jar Wrench: Used to tighten lids securely.
- Water Bath Canner: A specialized pot for water bath canning, ensuring even heat distribution.
Recipe for Canning Blueberry Pie Filling:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare Jars: Wash and sterilize canning jars and lids.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
- Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the filling thickens.
- Fill Jars: Ladle the hot pie filling into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Process: Wipe jar rims with a clean damp cloth. Place lids on jars and tighten rings. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude according to your canning guide.
- Cool: Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. Check for seals by pressing on the center of the lid. It should not flex.
Tips for Canning Success:
- Use Fresh Blueberries: Choose plump, ripe blueberries for the best flavor.
- Properly Sterilize: Ensure all jars and lids are thoroughly sterilized to prevent bacterial growth.
- Follow Processing Time: Adhering to the recommended processing time is crucial for safe preservation.
- Store Properly: Store canned blueberry pie filling in a cool, dark place.
Enjoying Your Canned Blueberry Pie Filling:
- Classic Pie: Use the filling to make a traditional double-crust blueberry pie.
- Cobblers and Crisps: Top your favorite cobbler or crisp recipe with the canned filling.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Add a spoonful of the filling to a yogurt parfait for a delicious and fruity breakfast.
- Ice Cream Topping: Spoon some blueberry filling over ice cream for a simple and satisfying dessert.
Canning blueberry pie filling is a rewarding experience, allowing you to savor the taste of summer all year long. With a little effort and the right tools, you can enjoy the sweet and juicy goodness of homemade blueberry pie any time you desire.
