Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a delightful way to preserve the sweet taste of fresh strawberries. This easy recipe captures the vibrant flavor of berries, making it perfect for spreading on toast, topping desserts, or adding to yogurt. With minimal ingredients and no cooking required, you can enjoy homemade strawberry jam any time of year. It’s an ideal choice for gifting or enjoying at family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This strawberry freezer jam takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Fresh Flavor: Using fresh strawberries ensures that every bite bursts with natural sweetness.
• No Cooking Required: Unlike traditional jams, there’s no need for lengthy cooking times; simply mix and freeze!
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on toast, in desserts, or even as a filling for pastries—this jam adds a fruity touch to any dish.
• Long-lasting: Freeze your jam for up to a year without losing its delicious taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this simple recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smoother process and helps you create the best strawberry freezer jam possible.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly jars: Essential for storing your jam properly while keeping it fresh.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Saucepan: Necessary for boiling the pectin, ensuring proper consistency in your jam.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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.

Step 2: Crush the Strawberries

1. Blend or crush your strawberries until you achieve your preferred consistency.
2. Measure out two cups of crushed strawberries and place them into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Sugar with Strawberries

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

Step 4: Prepare Pectin Mixture

1. In a saucepan, stir the 1.75 oz package of fruit pectin with 3/4 cup water.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil 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 to your strawberry mixture.
2. Stir vigorously for about three minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens.

Step 6: Jar Your Jam

1. Fill each jelly jar immediately, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
2. Secure lids tightly and let set at room temperature for 24 hours before transferring to the freezer.

Now you have delicious homemade strawberry freezer jam ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a delightful treat that adds a burst of flavor to various dishes. There are numerous creative ways to enjoy this sweet, homemade jam. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meals.

On Toast

• Classic Breakfast Spread: Spread a generous layer of strawberry freezer jam on toasted bread for a quick and delicious breakfast.

In Yogurt

• Fruity Yogurt Parfait: Swirl strawberry jam into your favorite yogurt for added sweetness and texture. Top with granola for crunch.

With Ice Cream

• Decadent Dessert Topping: Drizzle strawberry freezer jam over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm days.

In Smoothies

• Flavorful Addition: Blend strawberry jam into your morning smoothie for an extra layer of fruity flavor. It pairs well with bananas and spinach.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Delicious Brunch Option: Use strawberry freezer jam as a syrup alternative on pancakes or waffles for a sweet twist on brunch classics.

With Cheese

• Savory Pairing: Serve strawberry jam alongside cheese platters as a unique complement to soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.

How to Perfect Strawberry Freezer Jam

Making the perfect strawberry freezer jam requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your jam turns out just right.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness in your jam.
• Measure Accurately: Precision is key in canning; use exact measurements of sugar and pectin as specified in the recipe.
• Thoroughly Crush Strawberries: Ensure that strawberries are crushed well for an even consistency throughout the jam.
• Stir Consistently: When boiling the pectin, stir constantly to prevent it from sticking and burning.
• Cool Properly Before Freezing: Allow jars to set at room temperature before transferring them to the freezer. This helps them thicken properly.
• Label Your Jars: Don’t forget to label your jars with the date made so you can enjoy them within their best period.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, enhancing flavors and adding a sweet touch. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving this delightful treat.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie, cheddar, and goat cheese makes an excellent accompaniment.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: Mix seasonal fruits like melons, berries, and citrus for a refreshing contrast.
3. Oven-Baked Biscuits: Flaky biscuits served warm are perfect for slathering with strawberry freezer jam.
4. Savory Crackers: Pair crunchy crackers with cream cheese and top them with strawberry jam for an easy appetizer.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars drizzled with strawberry jam offer a sweet snack option.
6. Pancake Bites: Mini pancake bites served with strawberry jam create fun finger food for gatherings or breakfasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry freezer jam is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final product. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too many strawberries: It’s crucial to measure exactly 2 cups of crushed strawberries. Using more can alter the jam’s consistency and sweetness.
• Skipping the sugar measurement: The recipe calls for precisely 4 cups of sugar. Skimping on sugar will lead to a jam that does not set properly.
• Neglecting to boil the pectin: Always bring the pectin to a rolling boil for one minute. This step activates the pectin, ensuring your jam thickens correctly.
• Not letting it sit: Allow your strawberry mixture to sit for 10 minutes before stirring in the pectin. This helps the flavors meld together better.
• Improperly filling jars: Leave 1/2 inch of space at the top of each jar when filling. This space allows for expansion during freezing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers after opening.
• Use within 3 weeks for best taste and quality.

Freezing Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Freeze in jars or freezer bags.
• Ensure containers are labeled with date and contents.
• Best if used within 1 year for optimal flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place jam in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-30 seconds), stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Strawberry freezer jam is a type of fruit preserve made from fresh strawberries and sugar that requires no cooking. It’s kept in the freezer until ready to use.

How long does Strawberry Freezer Jam last?

When stored properly, strawberry freezer jam can last up to one year in the freezer. Once opened, it should be consumed within three weeks if kept in the refrigerator.

Can I use different fruits for freezer jam?

Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Just follow similar steps as with strawberry freezer jam but adjust sugar levels based on sweetness.

Is there a low-sugar option for Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Absolutely! Look for low-sugar pectin brands that allow you to reduce the amount of sugar while still achieving a good consistency.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry freezer jam is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its bright flavor enhances toast, pastries, and desserts alike. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices or mixing in other fruits. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of summer all year round!