Strawberry Freezer Jam

Easy strawberry freezer jam is a delightful way to preserve the sweetness of fresh strawberries. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a holiday breakfast. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a spread that bursts with flavor and brings joy to your table. The best part? This strawberry freezer jam requires no canning skills and can be stored in your freezer for up to a year, making it a convenient choice for busy families.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: This recipe is easy and quick, requiring only 15 minutes of prep time.
• Fresh Flavor: Using fresh strawberries ensures the jam is bursting with natural sweetness.
• Versatility: Perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a filling for pastries.
• Long-lasting: Store in the freezer for up to one year without losing flavor.
• No Canning Required: Skip the complicated canning process; this jam sets perfectly in jars.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your jam-making experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your strawberry freezer jam.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jelly jars
• Large bowl
• Blender or potato masher
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly jars: Ensure proper storage and preservation of your strawberry jam.
• Large bowl: Allows enough space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Blender or potato masher: Helps achieve the desired texture of crushed strawberries.

Ingredients

Easy strawberry freezer jam using fresh strawberries, sugar and pectin.

For the Jam

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (crushed)
• 4 cups sugar
• 1.74 oz Sure Jell fruit pectin

How to Make Strawberry Freezer Jam

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Clean jelly jars and strawberries thoroughly.
2. Remove stems from strawberries before crushing them.

Step 2: Crush the Strawberries

1. Blend or crush strawberries until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Measure out two cups of crushed strawberries and place them in a large bowl.

Step 3: Mix with Sugar

1. Add 4 cups of sugar to the large bowl with crushed strawberries.
2. Let this mixture stand for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Prepare the Pectin

1. In a saucepan, stir together 1.75 oz of fruit pectin with 3/4 cup water.
2. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly, then let it boil for one minute before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

1. Immediately pour the hot pectin mixture into the strawberry mixture.
2. Stir continuously for about three minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens.

Step 6: Fill Jars and Freeze

1. Fill jelly jars with the mixture, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
2. Cover with lids and let set at room temperature for 24 hours before placing in the freezer, where it will keep for up to one year.

How to Serve Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a versatile treat that can elevate many meals and snacks. Here are some delightful ways to serve your homemade jam.

On Toast or Bread

• Toasted Sourdough: Spread the jam on crispy sourdough for a delicious breakfast option.
• Whole Wheat Bread: Enjoy a healthier choice with whole wheat toast topped with strawberry freezer jam.

With Breakfast Items

• Pancakes: Add a spoonful of strawberry jam on top of fluffy pancakes for a fruity twist.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layer the jam with Greek yogurt and granola for a refreshing parfait.

In Desserts

• Cheesecake Topping: Use strawberry freezer jam as a topping for cheesecake to enhance its flavor.
• Ice Cream Sundaes: Drizzle the jam over vanilla ice cream for an easy and tasty dessert.

As a Glaze

• For Meat Dishes: Brush on grilled chicken or pork as a glaze for added sweetness and flavor.
• On Biscuits: Serve warm biscuits with a dollop of strawberry jam for an irresistible treat.

How to Perfect Strawberry Freezer Jam

To ensure your strawberry freezer jam turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries yield the best flavor and sweetness, making your jam more enjoyable.
• Measure accurately: Precision in measuring both strawberries and sugar is essential for achieving the right consistency.
• Allow resting time: Letting the sugar and strawberries sit before adding pectin helps enhance the flavors through maceration.
• Stir constantly while boiling: This prevents the pectin from sticking to the pan, ensuring an even mixture and proper thickening.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Freezer Jam

Pairing side dishes with strawberry freezer jam can make meals even more delightful. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cream Cheese Toast: Spread cream cheese on toast and top it with strawberry jam for a creamy, sweet bite.
2. Savory Crackers: Serve crackers with cream cheese and a layer of strawberry freezer jam for an elegant appetizer.
3. Fruit Salad: Complement your meal with a fresh fruit salad that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberry jam.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Add a touch of sweetness by spreading some strawberry freezer jam inside your grilled cheese sandwich.
5. Porridge: Stir in some strawberry freezer jam into warm oatmeal or porridge for extra flavor at breakfast.
6. Cheese Platter: Include strawberry freezer jam on cheese platters alongside assorted cheeses for delightful contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry freezer jam can be a delightful experience, but certain pitfalls can affect the final product. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Incorrect measurements: Always use the exact amounts of sugar and pectin as specified in the recipe. Deviating can alter the jam’s consistency.
• Not using ripe strawberries: Ensure your strawberries are fresh and ripe. Overripe or under-ripe berries can lead to poor flavor and texture.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the strawberry mixture to stand after adding sugar is crucial. This step helps dissolve the sugar properly.
• Not boiling pectin correctly: Bring pectin to a full boil for the correct time. Under-boiling can lead to a runny jam, while over-boiling may cause it to set too firm.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Ensure jars are filled correctly and stored in appropriate conditions. This ensures freshness and prevents spoilage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store strawberry freezer jam in airtight jars.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks after thawing.

Freezing Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of jars for expansion while freezing.
• Properly sealed, it can be frozen for up to 1 year.

Reheating Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Oven: Place the jar in a warm oven (not exceeding 200°F) until soft.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally until desired consistency is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making strawberry freezer jam.

How do I know if my strawberry freezer jam has set?

If your jam thickens after cooling and holds its shape when spooned out, it has set properly.

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry freezer jam?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before crushing them for the recipe.

What can I do if my strawberry freezer jam is too runny?

If your jam doesn’t set, you can reheat it and add more pectin following package instructions. Be sure to adjust sugar accordingly.

How should I label my jars of strawberry freezer jam?

Label each jar with the date made and contents. This helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you enjoy your delicious strawberry freezer jam at its best!

Final Thoughts

This easy strawberry freezer jam recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it by adding spices or mixing in other fruits. Try this delightful spread on toast, pancakes, or even as a topping for desserts!