Make this simple strawberry freezer jam without boiling or canning. It captures the fresh flavor of summer berries and sets quickly, making it perfect for busy cooks.
Author:felixhayes
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:About 6 half-pint jars 1x
Category:Preserves
Method:No Cook
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and crushed
7 cups granulated sugar
1 package (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin (optional, for a firmer set)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the strawberries: Wash, hull, and crush the fresh strawberries. You can use a potato masher or pulse them lightly in a food processor. Measure out 4 cups of crushed fruit.
Combine sugar and fruit: In a large bowl, mix the crushed strawberries and the granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Add pectin (if using): If you want a firmer set, sprinkle the powdered fruit pectin over the sugar-fruit mixture. Stir well for about 2 minutes until the pectin is fully incorporated. Add the lemon juice now if you are using it.
Rest the mixture: Let the jam mixture stand for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. This allows the pectin to activate and the mixture to thicken slightly.
Fill containers: Ladle the jam mixture into clean, freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top for expansion. Wipe the rims clean.
Seal and freeze: Cover the containers tightly. Let the jam sit at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer the containers to the refrigerator for 24 hours to fully set before moving them to the freezer.
Store: The freezer jam lasts up to one year in the freezer or up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator once thawed.
Notes
For a no-pectin variation, skip the pectin and increase the sugar slightly, or use a recipe specifically designed for no-pectin jam. Note that the texture will be softer.
If you prefer a smoother jam, process the strawberries longer until they reach your desired consistency.
This recipe makes a small batch, perfect for beginners or those wanting to try homemade preserves.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.