Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. This easy-to-make jam uses fresh strawberries, sugar, and pectin to create a spread that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a topping for yogurt. Its vibrant color and sweet flavor make it suitable for various occasions, from breakfast spreads to party snacks. Plus, with no cooking required, you can enjoy homemade strawberry jam in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This strawberry freezer jam can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a breeze for anyone.
• Fresh Flavor: Using fresh strawberries ensures a burst of flavor that is unmatched by store-bought options.
• Long Shelf Life: Once frozen, this jam can last up to one year, allowing you to enjoy summer’s bounty all year round.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for spreading on bread, topping desserts, or incorporating into smoothies and sauces.
• No Cooking Required: With simple steps that don’t involve cooking, it’s safe and fun for the whole family to make together.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your strawberry freezer jam, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jelly jars
• Large bowl
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly jars: Essential for storing your freezer jam; they keep it fresh and prevent spoilage.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Saucepan: Necessary for boiling the pectin mixture to activate its gelling properties.

Ingredients

To make your delicious strawberry freezer jam, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Jam

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (crushed)
• 4 cups sugar
• 1.74 oz Sure Jell fruit pectin

How to Make Strawberry Freezer Jam

Follow these simple steps to create your own strawberry freezer jam.

Step 1: Clean Your Ingredients

1. Clean jelly jars thoroughly to ensure they are free of bacteria.
2. Remove stems from the fresh strawberries.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

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

Step 3: Mix Sugar with Strawberries

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: Cook Pectin Mixture

1. In a saucepan, stir 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 1 minute before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

1. Immediately add the boiled pectin to the strawberry-sugar mixture.
2. Stir continuously for about 3 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens.

Step 6: Fill Jelly Jars

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

With these easy steps completed, you’ll have delicious strawberry freezer jam ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam is a delightful, sweet treat that can elevate many dishes. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast or planning a special dessert, there are endless ways to serve this delicious jam.

On Toast

• Spread a generous layer of strawberry freezer jam on warm toast for a sweet start to your day.

With Pancakes

• Drizzle strawberry jam over pancakes for an added fruity flavor. Pair with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

In Yogurt Parfaits

• Layer strawberry freezer jam with yogurt and granola for a refreshing parfait. This makes for a healthy snack or breakfast option.

As a Dessert Topping

• Use the jam as a topping for ice cream or cheesecake. It adds a burst of flavor that complements creamy desserts perfectly.

In Smoothies

• Blend strawberry freezer jam into smoothies for an easy way to infuse fruitiness without needing fresh strawberries.

With Cheese Plates

• Serve alongside cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The sweetness of the jam contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

How to Perfect Strawberry Freezer Jam

Getting your strawberry freezer jam just right requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries yield the best flavor and sweetness in your jam.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision is key, especially when it comes to sugar and pectin quantities.
• Let the mixture sit: Allowing the crushed strawberries and sugar to sit helps release juices which enhance the flavor.
• Stir consistently while boiling: Continuous stirring prevents pectin from clumping and ensures even distribution in the mixture.
• Fill jars properly: Leave enough space at the top of jars for expansion during freezing to avoid spills.
• Label your jars: Don’t forget to label your jars with the date so you can enjoy your jam at its freshest!

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberry freezer jam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing their taste with its sweet and fruity notes. Here are some delicious options:

1. Buttermilk Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits make an excellent base for spreading strawberry jam, adding warmth and comfort.

2. Cream Cheese Toasts
   Cream cheese spread on crackers or bread topped with strawberry freezer jam creates a simple yet sophisticated snack.

3. Oatmeal
   Stirring in some strawberry jam into warm oatmeal adds natural sweetness and fruitiness, making breakfast exciting.

4. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can be dressed up with a drizzle of strawberry freezer jam, enhancing the overall sweetness of mixed fruits.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   Add a layer of strawberry jam inside grilled cheese sandwiches for an unexpected sweet-savory combination.

6. Yogurt Bowls
   Mix strawberry freezer jam into yogurt bowls filled with fresh fruits and nuts for a nutritious treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Strawberry Freezer Jam experience smoother and more successful.

• Incorrect Strawberry Preparation: Failing to properly clean and remove stems from the strawberries can lead to an unclean jam. Always wash your strawberries thoroughly and remove all stems before use.
• Not Measuring Sugar Accurately: Using too much or too little sugar can affect the texture and taste of your jam. Be sure to measure exactly 4 cups of sugar as specified in the recipe.
• Ignoring Pectin Instructions: Overcooking or undercooking the pectin can result in jam that doesn’t set properly. Follow the boiling instructions carefully, stirring constantly for one minute.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Not letting the strawberry mixture sit for 10 minutes after adding sugar can prevent proper dissolution. Allow it to rest and stir occasionally for optimal results.
• Improper Jar Filling: Filling jars too full can cause overflow during freezing. Always leave a 1/2 inch space at the top of each jar to account for expansion.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store opened jars in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to 3 weeks once opened.

Freezing Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars.
• Properly sealed, it lasts up to 1 year in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Freezer Jam

• Oven: Place jars in a preheated oven at 200°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds) until desired temperature is reached; stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Strawberry Freezer Jam last?

Strawberry Freezer Jam can last up to one year when frozen and about three weeks once opened in the refrigerator.

Can I use other fruits for freezer jam?

Yes! You can use other berries or fruits like blueberries or raspberries following similar methods to make freezer jam.

What is the best way to thaw Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Is Strawberry Freezer Jam safe to eat?

Yes! As long as it’s stored properly, it is safe and delicious. Just be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

Can I adjust the sweetness of my Strawberry Freezer Jam?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sugar according to taste, but be aware that this may affect how well the jam sets.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Freezer Jam recipe is not only easy but also brings vibrant flavors right into your kitchen. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or using other fruits for a unique twist. Enjoy spreading this delightful jam on toast, pancakes, or even yogurt!