Sweet & Simple: Your Perfect Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe
Introduction
Nothing beats the fresh burst of flavor from homemade strawberry jam, and it’s far better than anything store-bought. Making it yourself lets you control the sweetness, texture, and all those luscious strawberry bits that make each spoonful a delight. Plus, your kitchen will smell like summer in a jar!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Measure 4 cups of fresh strawberries, hull and halve them, then set aside.
- Step 2: Pour strawberries into a large saucepan. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon. You should see bubbles forming and hear a gentle boil.
- Step 4: Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 5: Test the jam’s readiness by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate and running a finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done.
- Step 6: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars or containers. Allow to cool slightly before sealing. Label and store in the refrigerator.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your strawberries for a perfectly balanced jam.
- For a smoother texture, blend the jam gently before storing.
- Make sure your jars are properly sterilized to extend the shelf life of your jam.
Storage
Store homemade strawberry jam in sterilized jars or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave before serving. For longer storage, consider freezing the jam in freezer-safe containers.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries to make this jam?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before cooking. The jam might take a bit longer to thicken.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is ready when it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. When you put a small spoonful on a cold plate and run your finger through it, the jam should wrinkle and hold its shape.
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Sweet & Simple: Your Perfect Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups of jam 1x
Description
This homemade strawberry jam recipe captures the fresh, sweet flavor of ripe strawberries cooked with sugar and a splash of lemon juice to create a thick, glossy spread. Easy and quick to make, it delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and tang with a smooth, chunky texture ideal for toast, muffins, or as a versatile condiment.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: Measure 4 cups of fresh strawberries, hull and halve them, then set aside.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the strawberries into a large saucepan, then add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Boil the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon until bubbles form and a gentle boil is heard.
- Simmer the jam: Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- Test for readiness: Place a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate and run a finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is ready.
- Store the jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars or containers. Allow to cool slightly before sealing. Label and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the natural sweetness of your strawberries.
- For a smoother jam texture, process the cooked jam in a blender before storing.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to extend the shelf life of your jam.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment, Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade strawberry jam, strawberry jam recipe, easy jam recipe, fresh strawberry spread, stovetop jam
