Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

The Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every jar. Perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or adding to your favorite yogurt, this homemade jam is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With fresh strawberries and a splash of lemon juice, you can create a vibrant spread that brings joy to any occasion. The unique combination of flavors makes it an irresistible addition to your breakfast table or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This jam comes together in just about 70 minutes, making it easy to whip up even on busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe strawberries and natural lemon juice ensures you’re enjoying the best flavors without artificial additives.
• No Pectin Needed: This recipe doesn’t require pectin, allowing the natural sweetness of strawberries to shine through.
• Versatile Uses: Use it as a topping for pancakes, filling for pastries, or simply enjoy it on a slice of bread.
• Large Yield: With 70 servings per batch, this jam is perfect for sharing or storing for future enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your jam-making experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot
• Candy thermometer
• Hand blender
• Clean sterilized jars with lids
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking the jam, preventing burning.
• Candy thermometer: Helps you accurately check the setting temperature for perfect consistency.
• Hand blender: Provides a smooth texture by easily blending the jam to your desired consistency.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2.2 Pounds Strawberries
• 3 1/2 cups Sugar
• 1 large Lemon (see Notes)*

How to Make Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Strawberries

• Wash your strawberries thoroughly and pick out any that are moldy or spoiled. Only keep healthy fruits.
• Cut off the stems and chop your strawberries into small pieces.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

• Place the chopped strawberries into your heavy-bottomed pot.
• Add the sugar and lemon juice along with the squeezed-out lemon halves.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

• Turn on the heat and mix everything together.
• Slowly bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Set

• Reduce the heat and let your jam simmer for at least 30 minutes or until it reaches a set consistency.

Step 5: Blend for Smoothness

• Once you think it’s set, use a hand blender to blend the mixture until smooth.

Step 6: Test Setting Temperature

• Check the setting temperature using a candy thermometer; it should be at 220 Fahrenheit (105 Celsius).
• Alternatively, drop hot jam onto a frozen plate; if it doesn’t run, it’s set. If it does run, simmer longer.

Step 7: Jar Your Jam

• Prepare clean sterilized jars and fill them with hot jam up to the rim.
• Drop some lemon juice or alcohol-free vanilla extract into clean lids to eliminate germs.

Step 8: Create a Vacuum Seal

• Close each jar tightly with its lid and quickly turn it upside down to create a vacuum seal.
• Leave jars upside down until they cool completely before labeling them with names and dates.

Step 9: Storage Instructions

• Store your sealed jars in a cool, dry place. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator.

With this Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe, you can enjoy homemade goodness year-round!

How to Serve Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

Serving your homemade Easy Strawberry Jam is a delightful experience that can elevate many dishes. Whether you prefer classic pairings or creative twists, there are countless ways to enjoy this sweet treat.

On Toast

• Spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on warm, toasted bread for a simple yet delicious breakfast or snack.

With Yogurt

• Add a spoonful of jam to plain or flavored yogurt for an instant flavor boost and a touch of sweetness.

In Desserts

• Use the jam as a filling for cakes, pastries, or tarts. It adds a burst of fruity flavor to any dessert.

With Cheese

• Pair your strawberry jam with soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese on crackers for an enjoyable appetizer.

In Smoothies

• Blend your strawberry jam into smoothies for added sweetness and fruitiness without needing additional sugar.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Drizzle warm strawberry jam over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup for a fruity twist on breakfast classics.

How to Perfect Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

To ensure your Easy Strawberry Jam turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Use ripe strawberries: Choose the freshest and ripest strawberries available for the best flavor and sweetness.

• Measure accurately: Accurate measurements of sugar and lemon juice are crucial for achieving the right consistency and taste.

• Simmer correctly: Allow the jam to simmer long enough until it reaches the right setting point. Patience is key here!

• Test for consistency: Use either a candy thermometer or the frozen plate test to ensure your jam has the ideal thickness before canning.

• Sterilize jars properly: Make sure all jars are thoroughly sterilized before filling them with hot jam to prevent spoilage.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

Adding side dishes to complement your Easy Strawberry Jam can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a nutritious breakfast option that pairs well with strawberry jam.

2. Buttermilk Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits served warm offer a perfect base for spreading strawberry jam, enhancing their rich flavor.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses alongside fruits and nuts creates an elegant appetizer that matches beautifully with your homemade jam.

4. Oatmeal Bowl
   Stir in some strawberry jam into your morning oatmeal for added sweetness and vibrant color.

5. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the jam while providing additional textures and flavors.

6. Pancakes
   Classic pancakes topped with strawberry jam bring comfort and satisfaction during breakfast or brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry jam can be fun and rewarding, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Overripe Strawberries: Using strawberries that are too ripe can lead to a jam that lacks flavor. Always choose firm, fresh strawberries for the best results.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements of sugar and lemon juice are crucial for the right consistency. Invest in a kitchen scale and measuring cups for precise results.

• Ignoring Temperature Guidelines: Cooking the jam at the wrong temperature can prevent it from setting properly. Use a candy thermometer or test with a frozen plate to ensure correct cooking temperatures.

• Skipping Sterilization of Jars: Failing to sterilize jars can introduce bacteria, affecting shelf life. Always clean and sterilize your jars before filling them with hot jam.

• Not Allowing Proper Cooling Time: Turning jars upside down immediately after sealing helps create a vacuum seal, which is essential for preservation. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your homemade Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe in airtight containers.
• The jam can last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

• For longer storage, freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers.
• It will keep well for up to 6 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe

• Oven: Place the jar in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warm.

• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you might have about making this Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe.

How long does Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe last?

Homemade strawberry jam lasts about 3 weeks when stored in the refrigerator and up to 6 months if frozen properly.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure they are thawed and drained before using them in the recipe.

What can I use instead of lemon juice?

If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute with lime juice or apple cider vinegar to enhance flavor and preservation.

How do I know if my Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe is set?

You can check by using a candy thermometer; it should reach 220°F (105°C). Alternatively, test by placing a drop on a cold plate; if it holds its shape, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe is not just simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding other fruits or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious homemade jam on toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for desserts!