There’s something absolutely magical about making your own jam, and this easy strawberry freezer jam recipe is the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of preserves! I remember the first time I decided to tackle jam-making. I had just come home from the local farmers’ market, my bags bursting with bright red, juicy strawberries that practically begged to be transformed into something delicious. The thought of capturing that fresh strawberry flavor in a jar? Well, it had me giddy with excitement!
This recipe is a breeze, taking only about 15 minutes of prep time, with minimal cooking involved. You just mix, let it sit, and freeze! It’s so simple that even my kids love to help out, squishing the strawberries and measuring ingredients. The best part? The flavor is out of this world! It preserves the sweet, tart essence of ripe strawberries, making each spoonful a taste of summer, no matter the season.
So, whether you’re a jam-making novice or a seasoned pro, I promise this easy strawberry freezer jam will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the sweet details!
Ingredients List
To make this delightful easy strawberry freezer jam recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create pure strawberry bliss. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, crushed – The star of the show! Be sure to pick ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – This is what sweetens the deal! It helps balance the tartness of the strawberries.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – A splash of brightness that enhances the natural flavors and helps the jam set.
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin – This magical ingredient helps thicken the jam and gives it that perfect spreadable texture.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating something truly special! Trust me, the taste of homemade jam is worth every effort.
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s get started on making this easy strawberry freezer jam recipe! Don’t worry—I’ll walk you through each step, making it as simple as pie. Ready? Let’s go!
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
First things first, we need to wash those beautiful strawberries! Rinse them under cold water and gently pat them dry. Once they’re clean, hull the strawberries by removing the green tops and any bad spots. Now, the fun part—crushing! You can use a potato masher or even a fork to mash the strawberries in a bowl until you have about 2 cups of crushed goodness. You want them to be a bit chunky for that delightful texture, so don’t overdo it!
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In the same bowl, add 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of lemon juice to your crushed strawberries. Stir everything together until the sugar is well mixed in. This step is super important because it helps release the juices from the strawberries. Now, let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the strawberries will start to look syrupy and delicious!
Step 3: Prepare the Pectin
While the strawberry mixture is getting all juicy, it’s time to prepare the fruit pectin. In a separate saucepan, combine 1 package (1.75 oz) of fruit pectin with 1 cup of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until it’s fully dissolved. This only takes a minute or two! Once it’s boiling, let it bubble for about a minute before removing it from the heat. This step is crucial because it’s what helps your jam set perfectly!
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Carefully stir the hot pectin mixture into your strawberry mixture. Make sure everything is combined well—you want that yummy strawberry flavor to mix evenly throughout. Keep stirring for about 2 minutes, and watch how the mixture thickens up a bit. It’s like magic!
Step 5: Fill and Seal Containers
Grab your clean containers (I love using freezer-safe jars or plastic containers) and start filling them with the jam mixture. Leave a little bit of space at the top to allow for expansion when freezing. Once they’re filled, seal them up tightly. Don’t forget to label each container with the date! Trust me, it’ll come in handy later when you’re craving that sweet strawberry goodness.
Step 6: Resting and Freezing
Here comes the hardest part—waiting! Let your filled containers sit at room temperature for about 24 hours. This allows the jam to set beautifully. After that, pop them into the freezer, and voilà! You’ve got delicious strawberry freezer jam ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy strawberry freezer jam recipe isn’t just a fun project; it’s packed with benefits that’ll make you want to whip up a batch every summer! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh jam ready to freeze in no time!
- Simple Process: The steps are straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners and kids who want to help.
- Fresh Taste: Nothing compares to the burst of fresh strawberry flavor in your mouth, capturing the essence of summer all year round.
- Great for Preserving: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up excess strawberries and savor their taste long after the season has passed.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with other fruits or add spices like cinnamon for a fun twist!
Trust me, once you taste this homemade jam, you’ll never look at store-bought versions the same way again!
Tips for Success
To make sure your easy strawberry freezer jam recipe turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up from my own jam-making adventures:
- Use the Ripest Strawberries: The secret to great flavor lies in the strawberries. Choose berries that are perfectly ripe, sweet, and fragrant. The better the berries, the better your jam will taste!
- Clean Containers Are Key: Before filling your jars or containers, give them a good wash with hot, soapy water to ensure they’re free from any residue. You want your jam to stay fresh, so cleanliness is crucial!
- Don’t Skip the 10-Minute Wait: Letting the strawberry mixture sit for 10 minutes after adding the sugar and lemon juice is not just a suggestion—it’s important! This step allows the strawberries to release their juices, which will help in achieving that perfect jam consistency.
- Measure Accurately: Baking and preserving can be tricky! Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the sugar and pectin, to ensure your jam sets just right.
- Cool Pectin Mixture: When combining the hot pectin with the strawberry mix, be sure to stir well. This helps prevent clumps of pectin from forming, ensuring a smooth jam.
- Label Your Containers: After sealing your containers, take a moment to write the date on each one. This way, you’ll know exactly how long your jam has been in the freezer, making it easier to enjoy it at its best!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most delicious strawberry jam that’ll remind you of sunny days and fresh fruit all year long. Happy jamming!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made your easy strawberry freezer jam, it’s time to enjoy it in all sorts of delicious ways! Trust me, once you get a taste of this jam, you’ll want to spread it on everything. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions to get you started:
- Classic Toast: You can’t go wrong with a generous spread of strawberry jam on warm, buttered toast. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your breakfast or snack time!
- Yogurt Delight: Swirl a spoonful of this luscious jam into your morning yogurt for a burst of flavor. It adds sweetness and a beautiful color that makes breakfast feel extra special.
- Pancakes and Waffles: Drizzle this jam over fluffy pancakes or waffles for a delightful twist on your weekend brunch. It’s like having summer on a plate!
- Cheese Pairing: Serve the jam alongside a cheese platter. It pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, creating a sweet and savory combination that will wow your guests.
- In Desserts: Use it as a filling in desserts like cakes or cupcakes, or layer it in parfaits with whipped cream and granola. The possibilities are endless!
- Ice Cream Topping: Spoon some of this jam over vanilla ice cream for a simple and satisfying dessert. It adds a lovely fruity note that complements the creaminess perfectly.
No matter how you choose to enjoy your homemade strawberry freezer jam, each bite will remind you of sunny days and sweet strawberries. So go ahead, get creative, and savor every delicious moment!
Nutritional Information Section
Understanding the nutritional content of your easy strawberry freezer jam recipe can help you enjoy it guilt-free! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated values per tablespoon:
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These figures may vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and how you measure them. However, this jam is a delightful treat that allows you to indulge in the sweet taste of strawberries without any added guilt. Enjoy it in moderation, and savor every spoonful!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this easy strawberry freezer jam recipe? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you on your jam-making journey.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor, you can absolutely use frozen ones in a pinch! Just make sure they’re thawed and drained well before crushing them. The taste may be slightly different, but it’s still delicious!
What other fruits can I use for freezer jam?
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility! You can swap in other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just remember that different fruits may require slight adjustments in sugar or pectin, so keep an eye on their sweetness and juiciness.
How long does the jam last in the freezer?
Your homemade strawberry jam can last up to a year in the freezer! Just be sure to keep it in airtight containers, and label each one with the date. That way, you’ll always know when it’s time to enjoy your delightful creation!
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can decrease the sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam! Just keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also helps with the setting process. If you reduce the sugar significantly, you might need to adjust the pectin amount as well, so check the package instructions for guidance.
What if my jam doesn’t set properly?
If your jam doesn’t set, don’t panic! It can still be used as a syrup or a topping. If you want to try to salvage it, you can reheat the jam and add a bit more pectin, following the package instructions. It’s all about experimenting, and sometimes those “oops” moments lead to tasty new treats!
Hopefully, these FAQs help you feel more confident about making your easy strawberry freezer jam. Remember, the joy of jam-making is all about having fun and enjoying the delicious results! Happy jamming!
Print
easy strawberry freezer jam recipe: 5 Steps to Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 24 hours and 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy strawberry freezer jam recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for preserving the fresh taste of strawberries.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, crushed
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
Instructions
- Wash and crush the strawberries in a bowl.
- Add sugar and lemon juice; mix well.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the fruit pectin with a cup of water and bring to a boil.
- Stir the pectin mixture into the strawberry mixture.
- Fill clean containers with the jam and seal.
- Let the jam sit at room temperature for 24 hours, then freeze.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
- Store in the freezer for up to a year.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy strawberry freezer jam recipe
