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Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam

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If you’re a fan of fresh, sweet strawberries and looking for a simple way to preserve their flavor, homemade strawberry freezer jam is your answer. This delightful treat is perfect for adding a burst of summer to your toast, yogurt, or desserts throughout the year. Plus, making it at home is surprisingly easy and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s everything you need to know to create your own delicious strawberry freezer jam.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups crushed fresh strawberries (about 1 pound of whole strawberries)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
  • 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell or another brand)
  • 1/4 cup water

Equipment:

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 medium saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sterilized jars or containers (for freezing)

Instructions:

this recipe
  1. Prepare the Strawberries:
  • Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the stems.
  • Mash the strawberries using a potato masher or a fork until you have about 2 cups of crushed fruit.
  1. Mix Sugar and Pectin:
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the fruit pectin and 1/4 cup water.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a boil, let it cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
  1. Combine Ingredients:
  • In a large bowl, add the crushed strawberries and lemon juice. Stir in the granulated sugar and mix well.
  • Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sugar to dissolve completely and the strawberries to release their natural juices.
  1. Add Pectin Mixture:
  • Pour the hot pectin mixture into the strawberry mixture. Stir continuously for 3 minutes to ensure it’s well combined.
  1. Fill Containers:
  • Pour the strawberry jam into your sterilized jars or freezer containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
  1. Cool and Freeze:
  • Let the filled containers sit at room temperature for about 24 hours, allowing the jam to set.
  • Once set, store the containers in the freezer. Homemade strawberry freezer jam can be kept in the freezer for up to a year.
  1. Thaw and Enjoy:
  • To use, simply remove a jar from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

Tips for Success:

  • Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries. Frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh fruit will yield the most vibrant flavor.
  • Sterilize Jars: Ensure your jars or containers are properly sterilized before using them to prevent any contamination.
  • Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect texture and consistency of your jam.

Why Make Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Homemade strawberry freezer jam offers a few key benefits over store-bought options:

  • Freshness: You get the true taste of fresh strawberries.
  • No Preservatives: Control what goes into your jam without artificial additives.
  • Customization: Adjust the sugar level to suit your taste preferences.

Making strawberry freezer jam at home is a rewarding and enjoyable way to capture the essence of summer. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to making preserves, this recipe is a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the vibrant taste of strawberries all year long with this easy, homemade freezer jam!

Serving and Storage Tips for Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam

Serving Tips:

  1. Toast and Bread:
  • Spread your homemade strawberry freezer jam generously over a warm slice of buttered toast or freshly baked bread. It’s a classic choice for breakfast or a snack.
  1. Yogurt and Oatmeal:
  • Swirl a spoonful of jam into your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of fruity sweetness. It adds flavor and a pop of color to your breakfast.
  1. Desserts:
  • Use the jam as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or cheesecakes. It’s also a great filling for pastries, tarts, and cakes.
  1. Cheese Pairings:
  • Serve the jam with a cheese platter. It pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like Brie or goat cheese.
  1. Savory Dishes:
  • Incorporate the jam into savory dishes like glazes for meats or as a sweet addition to salad dressings. Its sweetness can balance out the flavors in various recipes.

Storage Tips:

  1. Freezing:
  • Containers: Store the jam in clean, airtight jars or plastic freezer containers. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
  • Labeling: Clearly label each container with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of how long the jam has been in the freezer.
  1. Refrigeration:
  • Thawing: When ready to use, transfer a jar from the freezer to the refrigerator. Let it thaw for several hours or overnight.
  • Storage Duration: Once thawed, your jam can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Always keep the lid tightly closed to maintain freshness.
  1. Shelf Life:
  • In the Freezer: Homemade strawberry freezer jam can be stored in the freezer for up to a year. While it’s best used within 6-8 months for optimal flavor, it remains safe to eat beyond this time.
  • In the Refrigerator: Once thawed, use the jam within 3 weeks. If you notice any signs of spoilage (off smells, mold, or changes in texture), discard the jam.
  1. Avoiding Contamination:
  • Clean Utensils: Always use clean spoons or knives when serving the jam to prevent introducing bacteria or contaminants.
  • Tight Seals: Ensure jars or containers are sealed properly after each use to keep the jam fresh and prevent freezer burn.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure your homemade strawberry freezer jam stays delicious and ready to enjoy whenever you crave a taste of summer.

1. How long does homemade strawberry freezer jam last in the freezer?

Homemade strawberry freezer jam can be stored in the freezer for up to a year. For the best flavor and quality, it is recommended to use it within 6-8 months. Properly stored in airtight containers, the jam remains safe to eat beyond this time.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries to make freezer jam. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before mashing. However, fresh strawberries are preferred for their superior flavor and texture.

3. How can I adjust the sweetness of my strawberry freezer jam?

If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly. Keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with the gelling process. Using too little sugar may affect the texture and consistency of the jam.

4. What should I do if my freezer jam doesn’t set properly?

If your freezer jam doesn’t set properly, it may be due to insufficient pectin or incorrect proportions of sugar and fruit. To fix this, you can re-cook the jam with additional pectin. Simply follow the instructions on the pectin package for a “set failure” fix or consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for troubleshooting.

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