Strawberry freezer jam is a perfect way to preserve the fresh, sweet flavors of strawberries without the hassle of traditional canning. This easy-to-make jam is spreadable, and it's an excellent topping for everything from toast to ice cream.
What makes this recipe so special is its quick preparation, and you don't even need to worry about cooking! You can keep the jam in your freezer and pull it out whenever you want a taste of summer.
Ingredients for Strawberry Freezer Jam
The best part about making strawberry freezer jam is that you only need four ingredients to get started. Here's what you'll need:
• 4 cups of fresh strawberries (halved)
• 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
• 1 package (1.75 oz) of dry pectin
• ¼ cup of water
That's it! With just these simple ingredients, you can make a fresh batch of strawberry jam without the need for any complicated techniques or long cooking times.
How to Make Strawberry Freezer Jam
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Freezer Jam
1. Prepare the Strawberries
Start by crushing the strawberries. You can use a potato masher or pulse them in a food processor until they're finely chopped (but not pureed). Then, drain the strawberries through a fine mesh strainer to separate the juice, reserving it for later use.
2. Combine with Sugar
Transfer 2 cups of crushed strawberries into a large bowl and add the sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully incorporated. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the sugar dissolve and the strawberries release their natural juices.
3. Boil the Pectin
In a small saucepan, combine the pectin and water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once the mixture thickens and the pectin dissolves completely (about 2 minutes), it's ready to be mixed with the strawberries.
4. Mix the Strawberry and Pectin Mixture
Stir the boiling pectin mixture into the strawberry-sugar mixture. Keep stirring for about 3 minutes. To check if your jam is set, coat the back of a spoon with the mixture and run your finger through it. If the jam separates, it's set. If it runs back together, continue stirring until it thickens.
5. Jar the Jam
Once your jam has set, pour it into sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Place the lids on the jars and let them sit at room temperature for 24 hours. After that, your strawberry freezer jam is ready to store in the freezer or refrigerator.
What to Do with Strawberry Freezer Jam
Now that your strawberry jam is ready, you can use it in so many ways. Here are a few ideas:
• Spread it on toast, muffins, or pancakes for a sweet treat.
• Add it to ice cream or yogurt.
• Use it in milkshakes for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Make a delicious strawberry jam bread.
You can even use it as a gift for friends and family, as homemade jams are always appreciated. Plus, you can make a large batch to enjoy throughout the year!
How to Store Strawberry Freezer Jam
Once your jam is set, you can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months, or in the refrigerator for up to one month. Be sure to use airtight jars to keep it fresh. When you're ready to enjoy your jam, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw for a few hours.
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Jam
• Use ripe strawberries that have a sweet smell and firm texture.
• Don't over-mash the berries; leaving some texture in the jam will give it a more authentic feel.
• If you have a canning funnel, use it to make pouring the jam into jars cleaner and easier.
• If you want a thicker jam, try reducing the amount of water and sugar slightly.
Strawberry freezer jam is a fantastic way to enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries year-round. Whether you spread it on your breakfast toast or serve it as a dessert topping, this easy recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
