Green Willow Crafts and Cooking

Your New Favorite Strawberry Freezer Jam is Here!

Oh, friends, there’s nothing quite like the vibrant taste of summer sunshine captured in a jar. That first spoonful of homemade strawberry jam, bursting with fresh berry flavor, truly feels like pure magic. And guess what? That magic is easier to create than you might think! Forget complicated canning processes; today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of freezer jam, a no-fail, super-easy method that lets you enjoy that “springtime in a jar” feeling all year long.

We’ve researched recipes to bring you the ultimate guide to whipping up batches of this delightful spread, with some alternatives mentioned to help make it even easier. Get ready to embrace the joy of homemade jam!

This Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe is designed for maximum flavor and minimum fuss. It leans into the simplicity of freezer jam while ensuring that perfect set and amazing fresh taste.

Juicy Easy Strawberry Jam

Yields: Approximately 5-6 half-pint jars Prep time: 15-20 minutes Resting time: 2 hours (minimum) Total time: About 2.5 hours (including resting)

Ingredients: 1 quart (approx. 4 cups) fresh, ripe strawberries: Washed, stemmed, and ready for crushing. This will yield about 2 cups of crushed berries.

 4 cups granulated white sugar

 1 (1.75-ounce) box powdered fruit pectin: Such as Sure-Jell Original (yellow box)

. ¾ cup water 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (bottled works too!)

 Equipment (You’ll Love): 

Clean glass jars or freezer-safe plastic containers (half-pint jars are perfect!) 

Potato masher, blender, or food processor 

Large microwave-safe bowl

 Small saucepan

 Dry measuring cups and spoons 

Let’s Get Jammin’! (Instructions):

 Prep Your Jars: Wash and rinse your chosen containers and lids. You can run them through the dishwasher or wash them with hot, soapy water. Ensure they are thoroughly dry before you begin.

 Berry Bliss: Stem your beautiful strawberries. Then, gently crush them. A potato masher works wonderfully for this, giving you a lovely chunky texture. If you prefer, a food processor or blender can do the job with a few quick pulses – just be sure to leave some small pieces for that delightful rustic feel!

 Measure Exactly: This is key for a good set! Measure exactly 2 cups of your crushed strawberries into a large microwave-safe bowl. Use a dry measuring cup and level it off. 

Sweeten the Deal: Add the 4 cups of granulated sugar to the crushed strawberries in the bowl. Stir it really well for at least one minute until combined. 

A Little Warmth: Place the strawberry and sugar mixture in the microwave and heat on high power for 3 minutes. This step helps the sugar dissolve. Remove from the microwave and stir well again for another minute. 

Let It Mingle: Now for a little patience! Let your strawberry mixture sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours, giving it a good stir every 30 minutes or so. You’ll know the sugar is well-dissolved when the mixture deepens in color and loses its “cloudiness.” A quick taste test will confirm it’s smooth and not grainy.

 Pectin Power: While your berries are mingling, combine the ¾ cup water and the powdered pectin in a small saucepan. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Continue boiling and stirring for 1 minute. 

Lemon Zest: Remove the pectin mixture from the heat and stir in the 1 to 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. This adds a lovely bright note and helps with setting. 

Combine & Stir: Pour the hot pectin and lemon juice mixture into your strawberry and sugar mixture. Stir, stir, stir! Keep stirring vigorously for 3 minutes (set a timer – no cheating!) to ensure everything is perfectly combined and the jam begins to thicken. 

Fill ‘Em Up!: Carefully ladle your gorgeous jam into your prepared containers, leaving about 1 cm of headspace at the top. The jam will expand slightly when frozen. 

Seal & Set: Wipe off any jam from the container rims and secure them with lids. Let your jars stand at room temperature for 24 hours. During this time, the jam will continue to set. 

Store & Savor: After 24 hours on the counter, your beautiful homemade strawberry freezer jam is ready! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze it for up to 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy! 

Reminders for Strawberry Spread Success: 

Say it Again! Exact Measurements Matter: Especially for the fruit and sugar, precise measurements are crucial for the jam to set properly. 

Don’t Over-Mash: A little texture from small berry pieces makes for a more delightful jam experience! 

Stir, Stir, Stir: Ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved and the pectin is well incorporated makes all the difference.

 Headspace is Your Friend: That ½ inch of space is important for safe freezing, preventing containers from cracking as the jam expands. 

Imagine that incredible flavor on your morning toast, swirled into yogurt, or as a delightful topping for ice cream. Making your own jam is such a rewarding experience, and with this easy freezer method, you’ll be a jam master in no time.

Celebrate Summer, everyone! What’s your favorite way to enjoy homemade strawberry jam?