If you’ve ever wished for a homemade jam that captures the vibrant sweetness of fresh berries without a long, complicated process, you’re in for a treat. This Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe is exactly what you need when you want that burst of strawberry goodness on your toast, yogurt, or desserts in just about 20 minutes. With only a few simple ingredients that you probably already have, it’s a delightful way to bring homemade charm into your kitchen without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this jam is refreshingly simple, yet every element plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each ingredient has been carefully chosen to keep things straightforward while highlighting the natural sweetness and brightness of strawberries.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped): The star of the show; fresh, ripe strawberries provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and helps with the jam’s preservation and thickening.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and a subtle tang, while also helping the jam set perfectly.
How to Make Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Strawberries
Start by washing and hulling your fresh strawberries, then chop them roughly. Having them chopped allows the jam to develop a great texture as the strawberries soften and break down during cooking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan
Place your fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Stir gently to blend all the ingredients before heating. This step ensures the sugar starts dissolving evenly, enhancing the jam’s sweetness.
Step 3: Cook and Mash
Over medium heat, cook the mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes. As the strawberries begin to soften, use a spoon or a potato masher to gently mash them to your preferred consistency. Mash more for smoother jam or less for chunkier bits of strawberry in every spoonful.
Step 4: Simmer to Thicken
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. During this phase, the jam will thicken beautifully as the natural pectin from the strawberries and the sugar work together.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly. Then transfer it into a clean jar or container. As it cools, the jam will continue to thicken, locking in that luscious, spoonable texture. Refrigerate and enjoy within two weeks for the freshest experience.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your jam by topping it with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This not only adds a little flair but also enhances the freshness and sweetness of your homemade spread.
Side Dishes
This jam pairs wonderfully with buttered toast, warm scones, or even alongside creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a quick snack anytime.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming touch, layer this strawberry jam in parfait glasses with yogurt and granola. You can also swirl it into oatmeal or drizzle over ice cream for a quick dessert that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover strawberry jam in a tightly sealed jar refrigerated for up to two weeks. This handy shelf life makes it easy to enjoy throughout the week without any rush.
Freezing
If you want to store your Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Reheating
To bring out the fresh flavors after refrigeration or freezing, gently reheat the jam on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This rejuvenates its spreadable consistency without losing that fresh homemade charm.
FAQs
Can I make this jam with frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery jam. The texture might be slightly softer but still delicious.
Do I need to add pectin to this Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe?
There’s no need for pectin here because strawberries naturally contain enough to help the jam set. The lemon juice also helps activate the natural pectin for that perfect jam consistency.
How can I make the jam smoother?
If you prefer a smoother texture, simply blend the cooked jam with an immersion blender or in a regular blender before cooling. This step is optional but adds a silky finish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but keep in mind you may need to increase the simmering time slightly to allow the jam to thicken properly.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
It sure is! With just strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice, this Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe fits perfectly into vegan and gluten-free diets.
Final Thoughts
Once you try making this Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe, you’ll see how simple and rewarding homemade jam can be. It brings a fresh sweetness that store-bought options just can’t match, and it’s ready before you know it. Whether you’re spreading it onto toast or adding a dollop to your desserts, this jam is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and savor the joy of homemade strawberry jam in no time at all!
Print
Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam recipe is a simple, small-batch homemade jam made with fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts, this no-pectin jam cooks on the stovetop in just 20 minutes. It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, and can be adjusted for chunkier or smoother textures.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped strawberries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sugar and lemon juice, then stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cook and Mash: Cook the mixture for 5–7 minutes, mashing the strawberries gently with a spoon or potato masher as they soften to your preferred chunkiness.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, continuing until the jam thickens to your desired consistency.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly. Transfer the jam into a clean jar or container and refrigerate. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
Notes
- For chunkier jam, mash the strawberries less during cooking.
- This small-batch recipe yields about 1 cup of jam and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a smoother texture, blend the cooked jam before cooling.
- You can double the recipe if needed, but increase the simmering time slightly to achieve the proper thickness.
