Description
Homemade strawberry jam is a sweet, fruity preserve made with just a few simple ingredients. Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, it’s perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (optional, for thicker consistency)
Instructions
- Place strawberries in a large saucepan and mash slightly with a potato masher or fork to release juices.
- Add sugar and lemon juice, stir to combine, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
- If using pectin, stir it in according to package instructions at this stage.
- Boil the mixture for about 15–20 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches the gel stage (220°F/104°C).
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam if needed.
- Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal with lids and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes (optional for shelf storage).
- Let jars cool and check seals. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate and use within a few weeks.
Notes
- To test if jam is ready, place a spoonful on a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s done.
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your berries and personal preference.
- For a chunkier jam, mash strawberries less; for smoother texture, blend before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg