Vanilla Strawberry Freezer Jam

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 32
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Vanilla Strawberry Freezer Jam is a delightful way to capture the essence of fresh strawberries and enhance them with a hint of vanilla. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, no-fuss jam that requires no canning skills. Enjoy the taste of summer all year long with this simple, delicious recipe.

Ingredients for Vanilla Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberries: The star of the show, they provide natural sweetness and vibrant color. Choose ripe, juicy berries for the best flavor.

Granulated sugar: Helps preserve the jam and balances the natural tartness of the strawberries.

Fruit pectin: Thickens the jam, giving it that classic, spreadable consistency. Look for a standard fruit pectin packet, which is usually 1.75 oz.

Lemon juice: Adds acidity, which helps the jam set and brightens the flavor.

Vanilla extract: Introduces a subtle, comforting aroma that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a smoother jam, use a blender to puree the strawberries instead of mashing them.
  • If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar by up to half without affecting the consistency too much.
  • Make sure your containers are completely dry before filling them with jam to prevent spoilage.

Serving Suggestions

This vanilla strawberry jam is fantastic over fresh-baked scones or stirred into yogurt. Try it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or even as a filling for homemade thumbprint cookies. For a savory twist, pair it with a soft cheese like brie on a charcuterie board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before crushing.
How long will the jam last in the freezer?
It can last up to a year in the freezer, but for best taste, use it within six months.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but ensure you have enough containers and space in your freezer. Stirring time may also need to be slightly longer.

Vanilla Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preparing your strawberries. Hull them by removing the green tops and any white cores. Then, crush them thoroughly using a potato masher or a fork. You want about 4 cups of crushed strawberries, so measure as you go.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed strawberries with the granulated sugar. Stir them well until the sugar is evenly distributed. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the sugar to start drawing out the juices from the strawberries.

Next, in another bowl, whisk together the fruit pectin, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully dissolved before moving on. This mixture will help your jam set properly.

Combine the pectin mixture with the strawberry mixture. Now, stir vigorously for about 3 minutes. You want everything to be well incorporated, so don't rush this step. The jam should start to thicken slightly as you mix.

Pour the jam into clean, freezer-safe containers. Leave about half an inch of space at the top of each container to allow for expansion as the jam freezes. Seal the containers tightly.

Let the sealed containers sit at room temperature for 24 hours. This resting period allows the jam to set properly.

Finally, transfer the containers to the freezer for long-term storage or keep them in the fridge if you plan to use the jam soon.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with no canning required.
  • Preserves the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries.
  • The touch of vanilla adds warmth and depth.
  • Great for gifting or enjoying on your own toast.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and crushed
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the strawberries by hulling and crushing them thoroughly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine crushed strawberries and sugar, stirring until well mixed.
3. Allow the strawberry-sugar mixture to sit for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together fruit pectin, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
5. Combine the pectin mixture with the strawberry mixture and stir vigorously for 3 minutes to ensure everything is well incorporated.
6. Pour the jam into clean, freezer-safe containers, leaving half an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
7. Seal the containers and let the jam sit at room temperature for 24 hours to set.
8. Transfer to the freezer for long-term storage or refrigerate for immediate use.

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