Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a delightful way to preserve the sweet taste of fresh strawberries all year round. This simple recipe highlights the natural flavor of strawberries, making it perfect for spreading on toast, topping desserts, or even adding to yogurt. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy homemade strawberry goodness that is sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This strawberry freezer jam can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy days.
• Fresh Flavor: Using fresh strawberries ensures that your jam bursts with vibrant flavors that store-bought versions can’t match.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy this jam on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for desserts—it’s perfect for any occasion!
• No Cooking Required: With our easy method, there’s no need to cook the fruit, preserving its natural qualities.
• Long-Lasting: Once frozen, this jam will keep for up to a year, letting you savor summer’s sweetness whenever you’d like.

Tools and Preparation

To make strawberry freezer jam, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify the process. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly jars: These are crucial for storing your jam safely in the freezer and keeping it fresh.
• Large bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Saucepan: Necessary for boiling the pectin; it ensures proper consistency in your jam.

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.
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

1. To the large bowl with crushed strawberries, add 4 cups of sugar.
2. Let this mixture stand for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Pectin

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

Step 4: Mix Pectin with Strawberry Mixture

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

Step 5: Fill Jelly Jars

1. Fill jelly jars immediately with the jam mixture, leaving about half an inch of space at the top.
2. Cover each jar with lids and let them set at room temperature for 24 hours before freezing.

Now you have delicious strawberry freezer jam ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a delightful treat that can elevate many dishes. Whether enjoyed on breakfast items or as a sweet addition to desserts, this jam adds a burst of flavor to your meals.

On Toast or Bread

• Classic Breakfast: Spread strawberry freezer jam on warm toast or fresh bread for a simple yet delicious breakfast.
• French Toast Delight: Use it as a topping for French toast instead of syrup for a fruity twist.

In Yogurt or Oatmeal

• Creamy Yogurt: Stir strawberry freezer jam into yogurt for an easy and tasty snack.
• Sweet Oatmeal: Add a spoonful of jam to your morning oatmeal for natural sweetness and added flavor.

As a Dessert Topping

• Ice Cream Treat: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Cheesecake Enhancement: Use it as a topping on cheesecake, adding both color and taste.

For Baking

• Fill Pastries: Incorporate strawberry freezer jam into pastries like danishes or turnovers for added sweetness.
• Cake Filling: Layer between cake slices as a fruity filling in layer cakes.

How to Perfect Strawberry Freezer Jam

Creating the perfect strawberry freezer jam requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your jam turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Always opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in your jam.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key; use exact amounts of sugar and pectin as specified in the recipe.
• Stir Constantly When Boiling: Keep stirring while boiling the pectin mixture to prevent burning and ensure even consistency.
• Allow Proper Setting Time: Let the jars sit at room temperature for the full 24 hours before freezing, ensuring proper thickening.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing flavors and providing extra sweetness. Here are some ideal options to serve alongside your delicious jam.

1. Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with strawberry freezer jam create a delightful breakfast experience.
2. Scones: Serve warm scones with butter and strawberry jam for an elegant tea-time treat.
3. Biscuits: Light, flaky biscuits slathered with strawberry freezer jam make for a comforting side dish.
4. Cheese Platter: Pair with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese on a charcuterie board for balance between sweet and savory.
5. Fruit Salad: Drizzle some strawberry jam over fresh fruit salad, enhancing its natural flavors with sweetness.
6. Savory Sandwiches: Add a layer of strawberry freezer jam to sandwiches featuring turkey or ham for an unexpected twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry freezer jam can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for the best results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too few strawberries – Ensure you measure exactly 2 cups of crushed strawberries. Using less can affect the jam’s consistency and flavor.
• Incorrect sugar measurement – It’s important to use exactly 4 cups of sugar. Too much or too little can prevent proper gelling.
• Skipping the pectin boiling – Don’t skip boiling the pectin with water. This step is essential for activating the thickening properties of the pectin.
• Not stirring enough – Stirring for the full 3 minutes after adding pectin is vital. It helps dissolve the sugar and achieve the right texture.
• Improper jar filling – Leave a 1/2 inch space at the top of jars when filling. This allows room for expansion during freezing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers or jars.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks after thawing.

Freezing Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Use freezer-safe jars or containers.
• Jam can be frozen for up to 1 year without losing quality.

Reheating Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Oven – Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at a low temperature until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe container; heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat, stirring constantly until heated to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making strawberry freezer jam:

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry freezer jam?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure they are thawed and well-drained before crushing.

How long does strawberry freezer jam last in the freezer?

Strawberry freezer jam can last up to one year in the freezer without losing its flavor or quality.

What makes strawberry freezer jam different from regular jam?

Strawberry freezer jam is uncooked, which helps retain fresh fruit flavors and color compared to traditional cooked jams.

Can I customize my strawberry freezer jam?

Absolutely! You can add lemon juice for brightness or mix in other fruits like raspberries for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry freezer jam is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for desserts. Feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or spices to suit your taste. Give this easy recipe a try and savor that fresh strawberry goodness!