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Easy Homemade Strawberry Jam

July 21, 2024
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea

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Learn how to make Homemade Strawberry Jam with just 3 simple ingredients. This easy recipe transforms fresh strawberries into a delicious, thick jam without the need for pectin!

Easy Homemade Strawberry Jam

Transform fresh strawberries into a deliciously thick and sweet jam with this easy recipe—no pectin needed! This Homemade Strawberry Jam recipe is bursting with natural flavor and is perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on pancakes, or adding a fruity touch to your favorite desserts. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round! Completely Vegan, Gluten-free + Dairy-free.

Toast with strawberry jam and a knife with strawberries.

Ever wondered how to make Homemade Strawberry Jam? It's super easy and so much fun! I love slathering strawberry jam on everything—not just toast, but also on pancakes, strawberry milk, cakes, and so much more! There's something magical about turning fresh strawberries into a thick, sweet jam!

Every year during strawberry season, I love going to a local strawberry farm and picking strawberries with my kid—it's so wholesome, y'all! Afterward, we make this jam together, and it's the sweetest tradition. This recipe is the perfect way to use up all those fresh strawberries. Plus, it's super simple—just fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar, no pectin needed. Trust me, it tastes so much better than store-bought jam!

If you're as strawberry-obsessed as I am, you won't want to miss out on my other creations like Vegan Strawberry Oatmeal CakeCinnamon Brown Butter Strawberry Crumb Cake, and Strawberry Shortcake Donuts.

Jump to:

What Makes This Homemade Strawberry Jam SO DELICIOUS?

  • So rich in flavor --- It's intensely fruity + naturally sweet.
  • Thick and spreadable without any artificial preservatives or flavors, just pure strawberry bliss!
  • Super versatile --- Great on toast, pancakes, in strawberry milk, cakes, and SO much more.
  • Super simple ingredients + straightforward process.
  • Kid-friendly --- A fun recipe to make with your little ones.
  • Fresh, homemade goodness beats anything from the store!!
Strawberry jam mixture in a pot with a masher.

Ingredients For Homemade Strawberry Jam

You only need four ingredients for this recipe, with the strawberries being the star of the show. For the best flavor, go for fresh, organic, high-quality strawberries!

JAM:

  • Fresh strawberries. Stems removed.
  • Organic cane sugar. For sweetness!
  • Lemon juice. Freshly squeezed, this is what helps to thicken the jam up.
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon. Optional but i find it to be a such beautiful addition to the recipe!

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS STRAWBERRY JAM!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Homemade Strawberry Jam recipe. Everything from my pots, wooden spoons, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Strawberry jam in a jar with a spoon on brown wood table.

How To Make Homemade Strawberry Jam

There are 4 main steps for making this strawberry jam recipe, but don't worry they are all very easy + simple!

PREP THE STRAWBERRIES:

  • Be sure to remove the stems of the strawberries and rinse them with cold water. Pat dry and dice the strawberries.

PREP THE JAR(S):

  • Sterilize your mason jar(s) in boiling water and dry completely. Set aside.

TO MAKE THE JAM:

  • In a saucepan, add the diced strawberries, sugar, cinnamon (if using), and lemon juice, stirring until combined and the strawberries are coated. Let them sit for about 5 minutes or so---until they begin to release their juices. Turn on the heat to medium-low and continue to stir so that you can scrape down the sides of the pot if needed.
  • Let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Once strawberries begin to soften, continue stirring and begin to mash the strawberries until fully broken down. NOTE: Continue to stir frequently to avoid burning. The mixture should begin to thicken a bit as the strawberries become more mashed and softened.
  • Remove from heat. NOTE: Be sure to skim off any foam from the top of the jam, if needed.

LET EVERYTHING COOL:

  • Pour the strawberry mixture into the prepared jar(s), filling it only about ¾ths the way---leaving space at the top. Then, place the lid on immediately and allow it to cool until room temperature. Serve + enjoy as needed.
Strawberry jam in a jar with a spoon and strawberries.

How To Pick The BEST Strawberries

One of my favorite parts of this time of year is the fresh berries! But there is nothing worse than getting home and realizing you have accidentally brought squishy moldy strawberries! Here are a few tips for finding and buying the most delicious strawberries!

  • Consider buying locally grown strawberries for the freshest and most flavorful berries.
  • Choose strawberries that are bright red in color and avoid any that are pale, pinkish, or have white or green areas.
  • Look for berries with fresh, green leaves, and avoid any with brown, wilted, or moldy stems.
  • Smell the strawberries to ensure they have a sweet, fresh aroma.
  • Gently press the berries to check for firmness. They should be firm but not too hard or mushy.
  • Inspect the container for any signs of moisture or mold.

Strawberries are not only yummy, but they're also packed with healthy nutrients that can keep you feeling great. Head on over to my blog post Strawberry Season to learn more. Having a fridge full of fresh strawberries is the perfect excuse to get creative in the kitchen and whip up some delicious strawberry jam!

Strawberry jam in a jar with a spoon.

Ways To Use Homemade Strawberry Jam

Homemade strawberry jam is incredibly versatile and can be used in so many delicious ways!

  • The classic choice—spread it on your morning toast for a sweet start to your day.
  • Drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast treat.
  • Stir a spoonful into a glass of milk or make homemade strawberry milk for a refreshing and fruity drink.
  • Layer it with yogurt + granola for a delicious and healthy parfait.
  • Use it as a filling for cakes, cupcakes, or even donuts for an extra burst of strawberry flavor!
  • Spoon it over vanilla ice cream or try my Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream!
  • PB&J sandwiches --- Upgrade your peanut butter + jelly sandwiches with homemade jam.
  • Use it as a glaze for meats like these Southern Strawberry BBQ Chicken Tenders for a sweet + savory twist.

Can You Freeze Homemade Strawberry Jam?

Yes, you can freeze homemade strawberry jam! Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. This way, you can make several jars in batches and have them on hand to pull from the freezer whenever you start running low. Just thaw in the fridge and enjoy!

Strawberry jam in a jar with a spoon and strawberries.

Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe Q + A's

How to store?

Leftover strawberry jam can be refrigerated until firm and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Do I need pectin to make this strawberry jam?

This recipe doesn't require pectin. The natural pectin in the strawberries, combined with lemon juice and sugar, helps the jam set perfectly.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them before using.

Why is my jam too runny?

If your jam is runny, it might not have cooked long enough. You can return it to the pot and cook it a bit longer until it thickens up.

How do I sterilize my jars?

You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes, or running them through the dishwasher on the hottest setting without any detergent.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure you have a large enough pot to prevent overflow while cooking.

What’s the best way to test the flavor before jarring?

Spoon a bit of the hot jam onto a plate, let it cool, and taste it. Adjust the sugar or lemon juice if necessary to get the perfect balance.

Strawberry jam in a jar with toast on a plate with a knife and strawberries.

More Homemade Strawberry Recipes To Try

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Homemade Strawberry Jam recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram  and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Strawberry jam in a jar with a spoon and strawberries.

Easy Homemade Strawberry Jam

July 21, 2024
No ratings yet
Transform fresh strawberries into a deliciously thick and sweet jam with this easy recipe—no pectin needed! This Homemade Strawberry Jam is bursting with natural flavor and is perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on pancakes, or adding a fruity touch to your favorite desserts. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round! Completely Vegan, Gluten-free + Dairy-free.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 2 cups

Ingredients

STRAWBERRY JAM:

  • 1 lb. fresh strawberries, stems removed
  • 1 ¼ cups organic cane sugar
  • 1-2 Tbsps freshly-squeezed lemon juice
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon

Instructions

PREP THE STRAWBERRIES:

  • Be sure to remove the stems of the strawberries and rinse them with cold water. Pat dry and dice the strawberries.

PREP THE JAR(S):

  • Sterilize your mason jar(s) in boiling water and dry completely. Set aside.

TO MAKE THE JAM:

  • In a saucepan, add the diced strawberries, sugar, cinnamon (if using), and lemon juice, stirring until combined and strawberries are coated. Let them sit for about 5 minutes or so---until they begin to release their juices. Turn on the heat to medium-low and continue to stir so that you can scrape down the sides of the pot if needed.
  • Let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Once strawberries begin to soften, continue stirring and begin to mash the strawberries until fully broken down. NOTE: Continue to stir frequently to avoid burning. Mixture should begin to thicken a bit as the strawberries become more mashed and softened.
  • Remove from heat. NOTE: Be sure to skim off any foam from the top of the jam, if needed.

LET EVERYTHING COOL:

  • Pour the strawberry mixture into the prepared jar(s), filling it only about ¾ths the way---leaving space at the top. Then, place the lid on immediately and allow it to cool until room temperature.
  • Serve + enjoy as needed.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

STORAGE: Leftover strawberry jam can be refrigerated until firm and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcal | Carbohydrates: 126g | Protein: 0.03g | Fat: 0.02g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 0.1mg | Potassium: 49mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 125g | Vitamin A: 0.5IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 0.5mg | Iron: 0.01mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Xx, Shanika in script writing

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