Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry Freezer Jam is a delightful way to preserve the luscious taste of fresh strawberries. This simple and quick recipe allows you to create a sweet spread that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a filling for pastries. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the vibrant flavor of strawberries year-round. Whether you’re planning a picnic or simply want to elevate your breakfast game, this jam is sure to impress with its fresh taste and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This jam can be made in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Versatile Uses: Spread it on bread, use it as a topping for desserts, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes.
• No Cooking Required: Unlike traditional jams, this freezer jam requires minimal cooking, preserving the fresh flavor.
• Long Shelf Life: Once frozen, this jam can last up to one year without losing quality.
• Simple Ingredients: Just three straightforward ingredients make this jam accessible and fun to prepare.

Tools and Preparation

To make Strawberry Freezer Jam successfully, having the right tools is essential. These utensils ensure that your jam-making process runs smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jelly jars
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly jars: These are crucial for storing your finished jam safely and conveniently.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to thoroughly combine the ingredients without spilling.
• Saucepan: This is needed for heating the pectin mixture properly to activate its gelling properties.

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 fresh strawberries thoroughly.
2. Remove stems from strawberries.

Step 2: Crush Strawberries

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

Step 3: Combine Sugar

1. Add 4 cups of sugar to the bowl with crushed strawberries.
2. Allow the mixture to stand for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Prepare Pectin Mixture

1. In a saucepan, stir together the 1.75 oz package of fruit pectin with 3/4 cup water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring constantly.
3. Let it boil for one minute then remove from heat.

Step 5: Mix Pectin with Strawberries

1. Immediately add the boiled pectin mixture into the strawberry-sugar blend.
2. Stir well for about three minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens.

Step 6: Fill Jelly Jars

1. Fill each jelly jar immediately while leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
2. Secure lids on each jar and let them set at room temperature for 24 hours before freezing them for future use.

Now you’re ready to savor your homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam! Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or even as a topping for desserts!

How to Serve Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a versatile treat that can elevate many dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy this sweet spread.

On Toast

• Toasted bread or bagels topped with strawberry freezer jam makes for a quick and delicious breakfast or snack.

With Yogurt

• Swirl strawberry jam into plain or flavored yogurt for a refreshing twist. It adds both flavor and sweetness.

As a Cake Filling

• Use strawberry jam as a filling between cake layers or cupcakes for a burst of fruity flavor in desserts.

Accompanying Cheese

• Pair strawberry freezer jam with cream cheese or brie on crackers for an elegant appetizer that balances sweetness and creaminess.

In Smoothies

• Blend strawberry jam into your favorite smoothie for added sweetness and flavor without extra sugar.

Drizzled Over Pancakes

• Pour strawberry freezer jam over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup for a fruity alternative that’s sure to please.

How to Perfect Strawberry Freezer Jam

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

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will provide the best flavor and sweetness in your jam.

• Measure accurately: Precision in measuring the ingredients, especially sugar, is crucial for the right consistency.

• Stir thoroughly: After adding the pectin, stir the mixture well to dissolve the sugar completely for a smooth texture.

• Fill jars properly: Leave 1/2 inch of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion during freezing.

• Cool before freezing: Let the jars set at room temperature for 24 hours before placing them in the freezer. This helps achieve the right consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam pairs well with many side dishes, making it a perfect addition to various meals. Here are some great options:

1. Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with strawberry jam create a delightful breakfast experience.
2. Biscuits: Warm biscuits slathered with butter and strawberry freezer jam offer a comforting treat.
3. Scones: Traditional scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam make an elegant afternoon snack.
4. Oatmeal: Stirring in strawberry freezer jam adds sweetness and flavor to your morning oatmeal.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers and strawberry freezer jam makes an impressive appetizer.
6. Fruit Salad: Enhance your fruit salad by drizzling some strawberry jam over it for added sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Bold Measurement Errors: Using incorrect amounts of sugar or pectin can affect the texture and sweetness. Always measure precisely for the best results.
• Bold Ignoring Rest Time: Not allowing the strawberry mixture to sit before adding pectin can prevent proper thickening. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
• Bold Overheating Pectin: Boiling pectin for too long can diminish its gelling ability. Stick to the recommended boiling time of one minute.
• Bold Improper Jar Preparation: If jars aren’t cleaned correctly, it can lead to spoilage. Ensure jars are thoroughly cleaned and dried before use.
• Bold Skipping Cooling Time: Filling jars and immediately freezing them without letting them cool may cause jar breakage. Allow jars to set at room temperature for 24 hours first.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in the refrigerator after opening for up to 3 weeks.
• Use airtight containers or sealed jars to maintain freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars for up to 1 year.
• Leave 1/2 inch of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Bold Oven: Place the jam in an oven-safe dish at low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a small saucepan, stirring continuously until desired temperature is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about making strawberry freezer jam.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before crushing.

How long does homemade strawberry freezer jam last?

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

What is the best way to serve strawberry freezer jam?

Strawberry freezer jam is perfect on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt.

Is there a way to reduce sugar in strawberry freezer jam?

You can use less sugar by following specific recipes designed for low-sugar jams or using alternative sweeteners suitable for jams.

Can I customize my strawberry freezer jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor and variety.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry freezer jam is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on breakfast items or as a sweet treat paired with desserts. Plus, feel free to experiment with different fruits or adjust sweetness levels according to your taste preferences!