No-Cook Strawberry Freezer Jam
Have you ever tasted strawberries so sweet, juicy, and fragrant that the idea of cooking them down into traditional jam seemed like a tragedy? This summer, I discovered a delightful solution: No-Cook Strawberry Freezer Jam. It’s an incredibly simple method that captures the fresh, vibrant taste of ripe strawberries without ever turning on the stove. Imagine preserving those sunny afternoon U-pick strawberries in a way that keeps their essence as pure as the moment you picked them. With this no-cook technique, you can enjoy the true flavor of summer all year long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-Cook Strawberry Freezer Jam is perfect for anyone who loves homemade jam but doesn’t have the time or patience for traditional canning. It’s quick, easy, and keeps the strawberries tasting fresh and vibrant. Plus, there’s no need for boiling fruit or lengthy water baths, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced jam-makers alike.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- 8 1/2-pint freezer-safe plastic containers with lids
Ingredients
- 7 cups strawberries, hulled
- 1 (1 3/4 oz.) package light powdered pectin
- 1 3/4 cups sugar, divided
- 1 cup light corn syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe
- Thoroughly crush the hulled strawberries in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the pectin with 1/4 cup of the sugar.
- Gradually add the pectin mixture to the crushed strawberries, stirring vigorously to combine. Let the mixture stand for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the light corn syrup and mix well.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar, stirring until it is completely dissolved.
- Spoon the mixture into the sterilized containers, leaving a 1/2-inch headspace. Secure the lids tightly.
- Let the jam stand at room temperature overnight before transferring it to the freezer.
Tips for Success
- Ensure that the strawberries are thoroughly crushed to help the jam set properly.
- Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved before transferring the jam to containers to prevent graininess.
- Use freezer-safe containers to avoid cracking or breaking in the freezer.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with adding a splash of lemon juice for extra zing or mixing in other berries for a unique twist. Just ensure you maintain the overall fruit-to-pectin ratio for the jam to set properly.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This freezer jam is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation! Each serving provides a burst of fresh strawberry flavor without a lot of added preservatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long can I store the freezer jam? You can freeze the jam for up to one year. Once opened, it will last in the refrigerator for up to four weeks.
Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! This method works well with other berries and soft fruits. Just be sure to adjust the pectin as needed.
Conclusion
No-Cook Strawberry Freezer Jam is a delightful way to preserve the freshness of summer strawberries without the hassle of traditional jam-making. I invite you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade jam with minimal effort. If you do, please share your results and any creative variations you come up with. Happy jamming!