What is summer in a jar? Is sunshine bottled up? What are some of the best summer mornings you’d have if you went strawberry picking and the smell of sun-warmed strawberries? How do berries fill the air? This jam captures that feeling perfectly. Is it easier to make a batch of pancakes than making them? What is the best thing about store-bought stuff? If you love apple butter, you’re going to go crazy for this. How do you make strawberry jam?
What is strawberry jam?
Strawberry jam is the sweetest summer gift to us, transformed into a delicious spread. Is it essentially crushed or chopped strawberries cooked with sugar and a little pectin to help it? A glossy, vibrant, ruby-red concoction bursting with the fresh, tangy sweet flavour of ripe strawberries. Is it a concentrated dose of pure strawberry goodness you can slather on toast, swirl into ice cream? Is it possible to use yogurt in baking? My grandma always called it “sunshine in a jar” and honestly, that’s the perfect way to describe it.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this strawberry jam is that it actually tastes like real strawberries – not fake strawberries. Some artificial, overly sweet imitation.
• The Flavour: Imagine a spoonful bursting with the bright, tangy sweetness of sun-ripened strawberries. It’s perfectly balanced, not too sweet, and allows the natural strawberry flavour to really shine. It’s a taste of summer, even in the dead of winter.
• The Simplicity:How do I make homemade jam? Is it possible to put everything in a pot and let it simmer? No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required. What is the perfect recipe for jam making?
• Cost-How do you make your own strawberry jam? Can you often find strawberries on sale, especially during peak season, making this a much more attractive food. What is a more affordable option than buying gourmet jams? Plus, you know exactly what’s going into it – no weird preservatives or artificial ingredients!
• Versatility:Why is jam not just for toast? Can you use it to top pancakes or waffles, swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal? How do you stir a cake or pastry into iced tea? What are the endless possibilities? What are some good ways to serve it on a grilled cheese sandwich?
Why is strawberry jam so much better than store bought jam? I love my raspberry preserves recipe, and my best friend swears by her homemade raspberry jam. What’s so special about homemade strawberry jam? Who wins every time?
How do you make strawberry jam?
Quick Overview
How do I make homemade strawberry jam? How do you mix fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin in a large bowl? Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. Then, ladle into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool. That’s it! What is the best way to do it in less than an hour? What’s the hardest part of waiting for it to cool before diving in?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for strawberry jam?
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and crushed (about 2 pounds). I always buy organic when I can; The flavour is just unbeatable.
• 4 cups granulated sugar. What is the best ratio for a 3:1 ratio?
• 1/4 cup lemon juice. Freshly squeezed is always best! It adds brightness and helps the jam set.
• 1 teaspoon pectin (optional). I want a firmer set of strawberries, so I only use this if they aren’t super ripe.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Jars
First things first, sterilize your jars and lids. How do I boil a potato in water for 10 minutes? What is the hot cycle of a dishwasher? Keep the jars hot until you’re ready to fill them. This step is crucial for preventing spoilage. Is it safe to put jars in the oven at 200F?
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
How do you hull strawberries? I like to use a strawberry huller, but I also like using paring knife. How do you crush strawberries with a potato masher or in food processor? I prefer a slightly chunky jam, so I don’t process them too much.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the crushed strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin (if using). Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Jam
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a rolling boil that can’t be stirred down, continue cooking, stirring occasionally. If jam thickens, wait a few minutes What is the best way to do this? To test for doneness, place a small spoonful of jam on an ice cold plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready!
Step 5: Skim off Foam
If any foam forms on the surface of the jam, skim it off with a spoon. How do I keep my jams clear and glossy?
Step 6: Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of jars clean with a damp cloth.
Step 7: Seal the Jars
Place the lids on jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight. Don’t overtighten!
Step 8: Process in a Water Bath (Optional)
For longer shelf life, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. If you skip this step, you’ll need to store the jam in the refrigerator.
Step 9: Cool and Listen for the “Pop”
Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. As the jars cool, you should hear a “pop” sound, which indicates that they have sealed properly. If jars don’t seal, store them in the refrigerator.
What should I serve it with?
What are the possibilities of strawberry jam?
For Breakfast:Slather it on toast, bagels, or croissants. It’s also great on pancakes, waffles or French Toast. Can you serve this with coffee or iced tea?
For Brunch:Serve with scones, muffins, or biscuits. Create a beautiful brunch board with breads, cheeses and fruits, and let your guests have their own. How do you create your own perfect bite? Don’t forget the mimosas!
As Dessert:Use it as a filling for cakes, pastries, or tarts. Swirl it into ice cream or yogurt. Serve it with a cheese plate for an unexpected treat. My kids love it with whipped cream.
For Cozy Snacks:Can you eat it straight from the jar with a spoon? What is the perfect snack for a cold winter day? My husband loves peanut butter on a sandwich!
My family makes mini strawberry jam tarts for Christmas, and they are always delicious. What is the best way to make a shortbread crust and fill it with jam? What are some of the best Christmas Cookies you’ve ever had?
How do you make a strawberry jam?
How do I make strawberry jam?
Strawberry Selection: What are Use the freshest, ripest strawberries you can find. They’ll have the best flavour and will require less sugar.
Sugar Adjustment: You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, but be careful not to reduce it too much, as sugar helps preserve the jam. I usually stick to a 1:1 ratio of strawberries to sugar.
Lemon Juice Importance: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It adds brightness, balances the sweetness, and helps the jam set properly.
Pectin Use: If your strawberries aren’t very ripe or if you want a firmer set, add a teaspoon of pectin. You can find pectin in the canning section of most grocery stores.
Stirring Strategy: Stir the jam frequently while it’s cooking to prevent sticking and scorching. Pay extra attention during the last few minutes, as the jam will thicken quickly and can burn easily.
Doneness Testing: The chilled plate test is the best way to determine if your jam is ready. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done!
Foam Removal: Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam for a clearer, glossier final product.
I actually once tried making this jam with frozen strawberries, and it just didn’t turn out the same. The flavour was a bit muted, and the texture was too watery. Fresh strawberries are definitely the way to go!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your strawberry jam fresh and delicious.
Room Temperature: Unopened jars of processed jam can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, store in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage: Opened jars of jam should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to use a clean spoon each time you dip into the jar to prevent contamination.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze strawberry jam for longer storage, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the jam to freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 6 months.
Glaze Timing Advice: Thaw frozen jam in the refrigerator overnight before using. Stir well before serving.
I once accidentally left a jar of opened jam on the counter overnight, and it definitely wasn’t as fresh the next day. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and store it in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this strawberry jam recipe a try! It’s a simple, delicious, and rewarding way to capture the taste of summer. Trust me, once you make your own homemade jam, you’ll never go back to store-bought. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other preserving recipes, like my spiced plum chutney or my easy pickled onions. Now, go grab some strawberries and get jamming! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know if you tried it!
strawberry jam
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and crushed
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the crushed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Continue to boil, stirring frequently, until the jam reaches a gel stage. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Test for gel by placing a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's ready.
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the surface.
- Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 0.25 inch headspace.
- Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for half-pint jars, adjusting processing time for altitude.
