Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe lets you preserve the sweet, ripe flavor of fresh strawberries without the need for lengthy cooking or traditional canning. It’s an incredibly easy process that results in jam that stays fresh and vibrant, unlike traditional jams that are often cooked down. Plus, freezer jam lets you enjoy that summer berry taste all year long. Whether you spread it on toast or use it as a topping for desserts, this jam is versatile, fresh, and simply delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups sugar
- 2 cups crushed fresh strawberries
- 1.75 ounces Original Sure Jell Premium Fruit Pectin
- 3/4 cup water
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed strawberries and sugar. Stir well to mix and let it sit for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a small saucepan, bring water and pectin to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to boil for one minute while whisking constantly, then remove from the heat.
- Add the hot pectin and water mixture to the strawberry-sugar mixture and whisk for about 3 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Pour the jam mixture into jars or containers, leaving 1/2 to 3/4 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Let the jam stand at room temperature for 24 hours to set.
- After setting, store the jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or freeze for up to a year.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 41 ounces (about 5 jars, depending on size)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Additional Time: 24 hours (for setting)
- Total Time: 1 day, 25 minutes
Variations
- Lower Sugar Version: Use Sure-Jell’s lower-sugar fruit pectin mix for a reduced sugar option.
- Smooth Jam: For a smoother texture, blend the strawberries more thoroughly before mixing with sugar.
- Additional Fruit Flavors: Experiment with mixing strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist on traditional strawberry jam.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store jam in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezing: This freezer jam can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 year. Just be sure to leave space at the top of the containers to allow for expansion.
FAQs
1. How long will strawberry freezer jam last in the refrigerator?
It will last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
2. Can I make this recipe with frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries as long as they are thawed and crushed before using.
3. What pectin is best for freezer jam?
Sure-Jell’s Premium Fruit Pectin works well for making freezer jam.
4. Can I make this jam without Sure-Jell?
While Sure-Jell is commonly used for its consistency, there are other pectins available. However, the recipe may require adjustments depending on the pectin used.
5. Do I need to boil the strawberries before making the jam?
No, you don’t need to cook the strawberries before making freezer jam. The minimal processing helps preserve the fresh taste.
6. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a lower sugar pectin mix to reduce the sugar content.
7. What kind of containers should I use for freezer jam?
Plastic freezer containers or glass mason jars work best for freezer jam. Just make sure to leave space at the top for expansion.
8. How do I know when the jam is set?
The jam will set after 24 hours at room temperature. It should thicken to a jelly-like consistency.
9. Can I use a food processor to crush the strawberries?
Yes, you can use a food processor, but pulse gently to leave some chunks in the jam for texture.
10. Can I use other fruits to make freezer jam?
Yes, you can make freezer jam with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even mixed berries. Just follow the same process.
Conclusion
This Easy Strawberry Freezer Jam is the perfect way to preserve the sweet, fresh flavor of strawberries without all the fuss of traditional canning. It’s simple, quick, and yields the most vibrant, delicious jam. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a taste of summer during the colder months or just love the fresh taste of homemade preserves, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
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Strawberry Freezer Jam
- Total Time: 1 day, 25 minutes
- Yield: 41 ounces (about 5 jars)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Strawberry Freezer Jam recipe is a quick and simple way to preserve fresh strawberries without the need for complicated canning equipment. Perfect for beginners, it offers a fresh, vibrant flavor and lasts up to a year in the freezer. Ideal for spreading on toast, topping desserts, or enjoying year-round, this easy freezer jam recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 cups sugar
- 2 cups crushed fresh strawberries
- 1.75 ounces Original Sure Jell Premium Fruit Pectin
- 3/4 cup water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed strawberries and sugar. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a small saucepan, bring water and pectin to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow to boil for one minute while whisking constantly, then remove from heat.
- Add the hot pectin and water mixture to the strawberry-sugar mixture and whisk for about 3 minutes, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Pour the jam mixture into jars or containers, leaving 1/2 to 3/4 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Let the jam stand at room temperature for 24 hours to set.
- Once set, store the jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or freeze for up to a year.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the strawberries more thoroughly before mixing with sugar.
- For a lower-sugar version, use Sure-Jell’s lower-sugar fruit pectin.
- Feel free to mix strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Jam
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
