Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry Freezer Jam is a delightful way to capture the fresh taste of strawberries all year round. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the sweetness and vibrant flavor of summer, making it perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on yogurt, or using as a filling for pastries. Its quick preparation and no-cook nature make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. With just a few ingredients, you can create a homemade treat that stands out in flavor and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for beginners and busy schedules.
• Fresh Flavor: Using ripe strawberries ensures that your jam bursts with the authentic taste of summer.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy this jam on pancakes, toast, or even as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.
• Long-Lasting: Freezing allows you to preserve your jam for up to a year without losing its delicious flavor.
• Natural Ingredients: Made with fresh fruit and no preservatives, this jam is a wholesome addition to your pantry.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Strawberry Freezer Jam, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jelly jars
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Saucepan
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly jars: These help store your jam safely while keeping it fresh in the freezer.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Saucepan: Necessary for boiling the pectin, ensuring proper consistency in your jam.

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

Step 2: Combine Strawberries and Sugar

• To the large bowl with crushed strawberries, add 4 cups of sugar. Make sure you use the exact amount for best results.
• Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally to help dissolve some of the sugar.

Step 3: Prepare Pectin Mixture

1. In a saucepan, stir together 1.75 oz package of fruit pectin with 3/4 cup water.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring constantly.
3. Once boiling, let it simmer for 1 minute while continuing to stir constantly before removing it from heat.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

1. Immediately add the boiled pectin mixture to the strawberry mixture.
2. Stir vigorously for about 3 minutes or until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens.

Step 5: Fill Jars

• Fill jelly jars immediately with the jam mixture, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
• Secure lids onto jars and let them set at room temperature for about 24 hours before transferring them to the freezer.

Now you have delicious Strawberry Freezer Jam ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a versatile treat that can elevate various dishes. Whether you enjoy it on breakfast items or as a sweet addition to desserts, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this delicious jam.

On Toast and Bread

• Spread it generously on toasted bread or bagels for a delightful breakfast or snack.

With Yogurt

• Add a spoonful of strawberry freezer jam to your yogurt for a refreshing twist and added sweetness.

As a Dessert Topping

• Drizzle it over ice cream, pancakes, or waffles for a fruity burst of flavor.

In Smoothies

• Blend in some strawberry freezer jam with your favorite fruits and yogurt for a tasty smoothie.

With Cheese

• Pair it with cream cheese on crackers for a delightful appetizer or snack option.

In Baking

• Use it as a filling in pastries, cookies, or cakes to add moisture and sweetness.

How to Perfect Strawberry Freezer Jam

To make sure your strawberry freezer jam turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Select ripe strawberries: Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness in your jam.

• Measure accurately: Ensure you measure your ingredients precisely. Too much sugar can affect the texture, while too little may not set properly.

• Use the right pectin: Stick with Sure Jell or another suitable pectin brand that is designed for freezer jams to ensure good results.

• Stir well: Mix the strawberry and sugar mixture thoroughly before adding pectin; this helps dissolve the sugar completely.

• Leave space in jars: Always leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of each jar. This allows for expansion when freezing.

• Cool before freezing: Let the filled jars sit at room temperature for 24 hours before placing them in the freezer for optimal setting.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with strawberry freezer jam create an indulgent breakfast experience.

2. French Toast: Serve warm French toast with a layer of strawberry jam on top for extra sweetness.

3. Biscuits: Flaky biscuits drizzled with jam make for an excellent addition to any brunch spread.

4. Oatmeal: Stir some strawberry freezer jam into your morning oatmeal for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Scones: Enjoy freshly baked scones paired with butter and strawberry jam; it’s a classic combination!

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses complemented by strawberry jam adds a sweet touch to any cheese board.

7. Fruit Salad: Toss fresh fruit with a spoonful of strawberry freezer jam to create a vibrant, sweet salad.

8. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and strawberry freezer jam in a glass for an eye-catching dessert or snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry freezer jam can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong amount of sugar: Sugar plays a crucial role in the texture and flavor of your jam. Make sure to measure exactly 4 cups as specified.
• Not preparing jars properly: Clean jelly jars are essential for preventing spoilage. Always ensure your jars are sanitized before filling them with jam.
• Skipping the pectin activation step: Pectin must be dissolved correctly to thicken the jam. Don’t skip boiling it with water—this step is vital for achieving the right consistency.
• Overcooking the mixture: Cooking the jam too long can lead to a tough texture. Follow the instructions closely and only boil until the pectin is activated.
• Ignoring storage tips: Proper storage ensures your strawberry freezer jam stays fresh. Remember to leave 1/2 inch of space in jars before sealing and freezing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store opened jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
• Use airtight containers for longer freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Freeze jars for up to 1 year.
• Leave 1/2 inch of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion.

Reheating Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm jam in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat, stirring frequently, until desired temperature is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Strawberry Freezer Jam last?

Strawberry freezer jam lasts up to 1 year in the freezer and about 3 weeks once opened and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and measure after mashing.

What’s the best way to enjoy Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a filling for pastries or desserts.

Is Strawberry Freezer Jam easy to make?

Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal time and ingredients, making it perfect for beginners.

Can I customize my Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This homemade strawberry freezer jam is a simple yet delicious treat that brings summer flavors into your kitchen year-round. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it on various dishes or even experiment with different fruit combinations. Give this easy recipe a try today!