Strawberry Jam Magic: A Quick and Easy Recipe Using Frozen Fruit

Summer’s sweet bounty of strawberries doesn‘t have to end when the season does. Capture the vibrant flavors of the season with this easy-to-follow guide on how to make freezer jam from frozen strawberries. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 bag (12 ounces) frozen strawberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 package (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large bowl
• Potato masher or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Saucepans
• Clean glass jars with lids

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Thaw the Strawberries

Remove the frozen strawberries from the bag and place them in a large bowl. Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until they’re mostly softened.

2. Mash the Strawberries

Using a potato masher or fork, mash the thawed strawberries until they’re mostly broken down but still have some texture. This will help release their juices.

3. Add Sugar and Lemon Juice

Stir in the sugar and lemon juice to the mashed strawberries. The sugar will help thicken the jam, while the lemon juice will add a bit of tartness and help preserve it.

4. Bring to a Boil

In a separate saucepan, whisk the powdered fruit pectin into 1/2 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a full boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

5. Add to the Strawberries

Once the pectin mixture is boiling, slowly pour it into the strawberry mixture while stirring continuously. Bring the jam to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

6. Boil for 1 Minute

Continue boiling the jam for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will help thicken it and activate the pectin.

7. Remove from Heat and Let Cool

Once the jam has boiled for a minute, remove it from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. This will stop the cooking process and allow the jam to thicken further.

8. Ladle into Jars

While the jam is still hot, ladle it into clean glass jars. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.

9. Seal and Store

Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, then place the lids and rings on tightly. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Tips for Success:

• For a smoother jam, strain the strawberry mixture before boiling.
• Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have powdered fruit pectin, you can use liquid fruit pectin instead. Follow the instructions on the package.
• Freezer jam will keep for up to 3 months in the refrigerator or 1 year in the freezer.

Other Strawberry Delights:

• Strawberry Shortcake
• Strawberry Pie
• Strawberry Milkshake
• Strawberry Ice Cream

Wrapping Up

Making freezer jam from frozen strawberries is a simple and rewarding way to preserve the flavors of summer. With a little effort and these easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy homemade strawberry jam all year round. So, gather your ingredients, grab your supplies, and let’s get jamming!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen strawberries?

A: Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Simply wash and hull the strawberries before mashing them.

Q: How long does freezer jam last?

A: Freezer jam will keep for up to 3 months in the refrigerator or 1 year in the freezer.

Q: Can I use other fruits to make freezer jam?

A: Yes, you can use other fruits to make freezer jam. Some popular options include raspberries, blueberries, and peaches.