Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam
There’s something truly special about making Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam that takes me back to my childhood. I can still remember the warm summer days spent picking ripe strawberries with my family, the sweet scent filling the air as we filled our baskets. Once back home, we gathered in the kitchen, filled with laughter and anticipation. Nothing compares to the taste of homemade jam spread on fresh bread, and this recipe captures that nostalgia perfectly. It’s so easy to make and the vibrant color of the strawberries makes it a feast for the eyes. Each scoop is a reminder of those cherished moments and the simple joy of homemade goodness.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
15 mins
0 mins
Medium
100 kcal
0 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
0 g
Large Pot, Food Processor, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
What Sets This Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam Apart
It’s Incredibly Simple
One of the first things I love about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need any complicated equipment or unusual ingredients. Just a few basic items and you’re set! This means anyone can whip up a batch of Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam without feeling overwhelmed. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, I promise you can do this!
Perfect for Summer Days
There’s something magical about summer strawberries. They’re juicy, sweet, and just bursting with flavor. Making jam is a great way to preserve that taste for the rest of the year. With this recipe, you can enjoy the essence of summer even in the dead of winter. Plus, you’ll impress your friends and family with your homemade creations!
Customizable to Your Taste
Another reason I adore this recipe is how adaptable it is. While it’s fabulous as-is, you can easily tweak it to suit your palate. Want a little tang? Consider adding a splash of lemon juice. Prefer a less sweet jam? Adjust the sugar to your liking. It’s all about creating something that speaks to you!
Great for Gifting
Homemade goodies make the best gifts. Packaging your Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam in pretty jars with a handwritten label is a thoughtful gesture that anyone would appreciate. Friends and family will rave about your jam, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving. Every time they spread it on their toast, they’ll think of you!
Healthier Choice
When you make your jam at home, you know exactly what goes into it. There are no preservatives or artificial flavors lurking in your ingredients. You can feel good about spreading this jam on your breakfast or snack, knowing it’s made from fresh strawberries and minimal added sugar.
What to Buy for Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam
When it comes to the ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam, quality matters! Using fresh, ripe strawberries is key to achieving that vibrant flavor and color. They work together beautifully, creating a sweet, luscious jam that has a delightful balance of sweetness. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients you’ll need to gather.
- 2 pounds ripe strawberries, washed and stemmed: The star of this recipe! Look for berries that are fragrant and bright red. The riper they are, the sweeter your jam will be.
- 4 cups granulated sugar: This will help preserve the jam and give it that sweet flavor we all love. Don’t skimp on this ingredient because it’s essential for the right texture.
- 1 (1.75-ounce) package fruit pectin: I recommend using Sure-Jell for its reliability. Pectin is what helps your jam set perfectly.
- ¾ cup water: Needed to dissolve the pectin, allowing it to blend smoothly with the strawberries.
- 5 (8-ounce) jars or freezer-safe containers: You’ll need these to store your finished jam. Make sure they’re clean and ready for filling!
The Method for Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam
Making Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam is such a rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to share the method with you! It’s straightforward and allows for a little creative flair. Let’s get those strawberries transformed into delicious jam!
Start by washing and drying the freezer-safe containers. This is essential because you want to ensure everything is clean before storing your jam. Set them aside so they’re ready once you’re done.
Next, take the 2 pounds ripe strawberries and either use a potato masher or a food processor to mash them. I like to leave some chunks for texture; it makes the jam feel more rustic. Measure out 2 cups of the mashed berries into a large bowl.
Now, stir in 4 cups granulated sugar with the strawberries. This helps infuse the sweetness into the berries. Allow the mixture to stand for about 10 minutes, letting the sugar draw out the natural juices from the strawberries.
While the berries are resting, prepare the pectin. In a small saucepan, add the 1 (1.75-ounce) package fruit pectin and ¾ cup water. Whisk it together until well combined. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly for about 1 minute.
Once your pectin mixture is bubbling away, pour it directly into the strawberry mixture. Stir this for about 3 minutes, ensuring the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect jam consistency.
Now it’s time to ladle the jam into your prepared 5 (8-ounce) jars or freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave about ½ inch at the top for expansion during freezing. Seal each jar with a lid to prevent any air from getting in.
Allow the jars to stand at room temperature for 24 hours. This gives the jam time to set properly. Afterward, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 1 year. It’s that simple!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh strawberries: Always opt for the freshest strawberries you can find, as they yield the best flavor. Look for ones that are bright red and fragrant.
- Let it sit: Allowing the sugar to mingle with the strawberries for a few minutes before cooking helps enhance the flavor.
- Storage matters: Make sure your jars are completely dry before filling them with jam to prevent any moisture that could spoil it.
- Check the pectin: Not all pectins are created equal; ensure you’re using a reliable brand for consistent results.
Helpful Hints
Before diving in, here are some helpful hints to ensure your Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam turns out perfectly!
- Storage: Keep your jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Use freezer-safe containers for long-term storage, and be sure to label them with dates.
- Freezing: This jam can be frozen for up to 1 year. Just make sure to leave space at the top of the jar for expansion.
- Pairing: This jam is delightful on toast, pancakes, or even in desserts like cheesecakes. Don’t hesitate to experiment!
- Serving suggestions: Serve it as a topping for ice cream or mix it into yogurt for a refreshing treat.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add herbs like mint for a unique twist!
Pairing Suggestions for Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam
There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy your Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam. Here’s a list of ideas to inspire you:
- Toast: Spread it generously on your morning toast for a delightful breakfast.
- Pancakes and Waffles: Slather it on pancakes or waffles for a sweet brunch addition.
- Yogurt: Mix it into yogurt for a deliciously sweet snack or breakfast option.
- Ice Cream: Top your favorite ice cream with a spoonful of jam for a fresh twist.
- Cheese Plates: Pair it with cheese on a charcuterie board for a sweet and savory combo.
- Gift It: Share the love by gifting jars to friends or family during the holidays or special occasions.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam is a delightful way to preserve the essence of summer in a jar. I encourage you to give it a try, and I promise you won’t regret it! It’s not only easy to make, but it’s also a wonderful way to bring back memories of fresh strawberries and sunny days. Enjoy making and sharing this sweet treat with your loved ones!
Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and dry the freezer-safe containers and set aside.
- With a potato masher or in a food processor, mash 2 pounds ripe strawberries, leaving some chunks. Measure out 2 cups of berries into a large bowl.
- Stir in 4 cups granulated sugar. Allow the mashed berries to stand for 10 minutes.
- In a small saucepan, add 1 (1.75-ounce) package fruit pectin and ¾ cup water and whisk to combine. Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a boil over high heat and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour the pectin mixture in the strawberry mixture and stir for 3 minutes or until the sugar is dissolved.
- Ladle the jam into 5 (8-ounce) jars or freezer-safe containers, leaving about ½ inch at the top for expansion. Top with lids and allow to stand for 24 hours at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for 1 year.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Tip 2: Freeze for up to 1 year.
- Tip 3: Serve on toast or pancakes.
- Tip 4: Make it as gifts for special occasions.
- Tip 5: Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
