recipe for strawberry jam
The Best recipe for strawberry jam
The kids love it too, especially when we let them help with the chopping or stirring. Itās a fun, low-effort activity that turns a simple kitchen task into something special. And honestly? Itās not just a treat for the taste budsāstrawberries are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, so itās a little health boost you can enjoy anytime. Whether youāre making it for a weekend brunch or just because youāre craving something sweet, this jam is a reliable choice. Itās easy to customize too, whether you want it sweeter, tangier, or with a hint of vanilla for extra depth. Itās the kind of recipe that feels like a no-brainer, but still makes everything feel a little more delicious.
Classic Strawberry Jam
A simple, homemade strawberry jam thatās perfect for toast, yogurt, or spreading on fresh bread. Fresh strawberries yield the sweetest, most vibrant flavor.
š„Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
šØāš³Directions
-
1
In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well to distribute the sugar evenly. -
2
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. -
3
Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 25ā30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. -
4
Remove from heat and let the jam cool for 5 minutes. Test the thickness by dropping a spoonful onto a chilled plateāit should hold its shape when pressed. -
5
Once thickened, ladle the jam into clean, hot jars, leaving Ā¼-inch headspace at the top. Seal with lids and process in a water bath for 10 minutes to ensure sterility.
š§Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Clean jars and lids
- Jar lifter
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
- Tips: Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If your jam is too thin, simmer longer. Store jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Watch Video Of How Classic Strawberry Jam Works
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Jam
1. Whatās the best way to store homemade strawberry jam?
Keep your jam in a clean, airtight jar in a cool, dark placeālike a pantryāonce itās fully cooled. If you plan to store it for more than a few weeks, refrigerate it instead. Once opened, transfer any remaining jam to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Thaw frozen strawberries overnight in the fridge, then drain any excess liquid before using. Fresh strawberries are ideal, but frozen works well if youāre short on time.
3. How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is done when it reaches about 210Ā°F (99Ā°C) on a candy thermometer and coats the back of a spoon in a thick, glossy layer. It should pull away from the pan edges when you lift the jar.
4. What if my jam isnāt thick enough?
If the jam is too thin, let it sit uncovered on the stove for another 5ā10 minutes to thicken further. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For extra thickness, add a splash of water or sugar-free pectin if youāre using a commercial version.
5. Can I make this jam ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the jam in batches and store it in sterilized jars at room temperature for up to 6 months. If youāre unsure, refrigerate it for a shorter trial run before committing to long-term storage.
