Blackberries (or brambles, as they’re often called in the UK) are one of the joys of late summer and early autumn. Whether you're picking them fresh from hedgerows or buying them in markets, these dark, juicy berries are packed with flavour and culinary potential. Here's how to make the most of them, plus a few foraging tips along the way.

Foraging for Blackberries: Tips and Tricks

Where to Look
You’ll find wild blackberries in hedgerows, woodlands, and along rural paths across the UK. Look for plump, dark berries, ideally in sunny spots where the fruit ripens faster.

When to Pick
Peak season runs from late July through September. Early berries tend to be tart, while those picked in late summer are sweeter and juicier.

How to Pick
Use gloves to avoid scratches from thorns. Avoid berries low to the ground (they may be contaminated) and always wash thoroughly before use.

Blackberry Jam Recipe Inspiration

Blackberry jam is one of the easiest and most rewarding preserves to make. The berries’ natural pectin content means they set well without needing much else. Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon for an interesting twist. Great with toast, yogurt, or even cheese boards.

Blackberry Jam Recipe by Xhevrije batusha
this was the first recipe with berries that I made🌺🌺
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Blackberry Jam Recipe by cookpad.japan
There are blackberries that grow in my backyard every year and I wanted to eat them somehow, so I turned them into a jar of jam. Don’t blend too much or crush the seeds. The hard, little seeds can leave a taste in your mouth, so strain the berries to remove them as much as possible. I rarely see bla…
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Blackberry Crumble Recipe Ideas

Classic Blackberry Crumble
A beloved British dessert, blackberry crumble is a perfect way to highlight these seasonal berries. Mix blackberries with a little sugar and lemon zest, and top with a buttery crumble mixture.

Creative Variations
Try pairing blackberries with apples, pears, or plums for extra depth. Add a hint of ginger or vanilla to the fruit filling for warmth.

Best Crumble Topping Recipe Tips
Use a mix of flour, butter, and sugar for a basic topping, or add oats and chopped nuts for texture and flavour.
Apple And Blackberry Crumble Recipe by Malaysian Kitchen UK
Great recipe for Apple and blackberry crumble.
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Strawberry/Blackberry Streusel Recipe by lethifer
Great recipe for Strawberry/blackberry Streusel.
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More Ways to Use Blackberries

Blackberry Compote
Simmer blackberries with a little honey or maple syrup for a quick compote—delicious over pancakes, porridge or ice cream.

Red Berry Compote (Rote Gruetze) Recipe by Kristina K
This used to be one of the most popular desserts in Northern Germany and Danmark. As a child I had it all the time with my grandparents in Northern Germany and I love it until today. It is a tasty family dessert that you can present in different was: just as it is, with cream, with vanilla ice cream…
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Fresh Fruit Compote Recipe by dsprice
Celebrate fresh fruit.
Cookpaddsprice

Blackberry Vinegar
Steep berries in vinegar and sugar for a tangy condiment that’s excellent in salad dressings.

Duck With Blackberry Sauce Recipe by ALEX xx ✈🇬🇧🇱🇹
Blackberries are a unique berry, they are sweet and sour and go well with duck. Try to give the duck a new taste with exotic spices. I took Thai with aromatic lime and herbs. #june2026 #CA2025
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Lamb Tacos With Blackberry Salsa And Mint /Chives Yoghurt Sauce Recipe by Fittest Chef
Lamb and blackberies go really well together. This time I paired them up in mexican style. I used lamb shoulder chop that was marinated for several hours then cooked directly on very high temperature. Served on wholemeal tortillas with spicy and fruity salsa and yoghurt dip. #mycookbook
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Frozen Blackberry Ideas
Freeze blackberries in a single layer, then store in bags for smoothies, sauces or baking all year round.

Jamun(blackberry) Ice Cream Recipe by Geeta Godhiwala
#SC3
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Purple Coconut Nutty Smoothie Recipe by Thomas Guy
Just amazing. I just can’t believe I invented this. Wow.
CookpadThomas Guy

Storage Tips for Fresh Blackberries

Blackberries are delicate and best used within a few days of picking. Store them unwashed in the fridge in a shallow container lined with paper towels. To freeze, spread on a tray in a single layer, freeze until solid, then store in a sealed bag.

Blackberry Houmus Recipe by Feed.Them.Well
At this time of year, our garden is full of blackberries which my little ones love to pick. After endless smoothies, bakes and lollies, I decided to find a different use for these lovely berries. Serve with fresh veggies and nice salty crackers for a delicious and different snack!
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Preserving the Season

Make the most of your blackberry harvest by preserving them. In addition to jam, you can freeze them, dry them into fruit leathers, or infuse them into spirits like gin or vodka for a fruity twist.

Blackberry Baked Cheesecake Recipe by Mai Tarek
Our freshly picked blackberries encouraged me to make it 😍First attempt with baked cheesecakes but won’t be last ❤️ #mycookbook
CookpadMai Tarek

Blackberries are versatile, nutritious, and delicious. Whether you forage for them or buy them fresh, they can add vibrant flavour to sweet and savoury dishes alike. So grab a basket, head outdoors, and get inspired by nature’s bounty.