Make It Yourself Monday

Strawberry Freezer Jam

I found this great tutorial from Marie @ Make and Takes on how to make strawberry freezer jam.

Strawberry Freezer Jam

Apr 29th, 2008 by Marie

I recently had a friend ask me how to make jam. I started talking about pectin and storing it in the freezer, and she didn’t know what I was talking about. So I’ve decided to do a little how-to for making Freezer Jam. It’s so easy and super delicious, you will never buy store jam again!

First buy a box of pectin. Pectin is the stuff that makes the jam jiggly. You will need it for any kind of jam you make. I usually buy the Sure Jell brand, but there is also Fruit Pectin, and others too. You can find it in the baking aisle, or next to the canning supplies. The directions to make the jam, whether it’s cooked & canned or for the freezer, are included right in the pectin box. Just follow the directions. Really all you need is, your pectin, sugar, and your fruit. There are some fruit flavors that will require lemon juice. Just check the pectin directions to be sure.

Because strawberries are so easy to get and cheap when they are in season, I have only made Strawberry Jam. I have used frozen strawberries too, but it’s better if they’re fresh. If you choose to use frozen strawberries, make sure you drain as much liquid as you can before you puree them. Cut up your strawberries, then mash them to a puree. I use a mini food processor, but you could use a potato masher or blender. You will need 2 cups of strawberry puree. Then add 4, yes I said 4, cups of sugar. I didn’t say this was low calorie, just delicious.

Then pour your pectin packet into a small pot and bring it to a boil with some water, read the directions from the pectin box for how much. Once the pectin is dissolved, stir it into the fruit/sugar mixture.

It’s now ready to pour into containers. I like to use plastic containers that are freezer safe. I found these great jam containers (with the purple lids) but I need a few more for a whole batch.

Now you are ready to devour your Jam. I keep one out to eat now, and save the rest in the freezer for later. It should last up to a year if stored properly. I have also given these little containers as gifts to neighbors. Enjoy putting this yummy jam on your toast or simply eat it with a spoon straight from the jar like my Grandma!