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Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe

Homemade Strawberry Jam: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

This recipe shows you how to make homemade strawberry jam with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Perfect for beginners!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Preserves
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups Ripe Strawberries (1 pound), hulled and sliced
  • 3 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 0.25 cup Lemon Juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (optional, from 1 lemon)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Butter (optional, helps reduce foaming)
  • 1 packet Pectin (optional) For thicker jam

Equipment

  • Large, heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sterilized jars and lids
  • Jam thermometer (optional)
  • Chilled plate

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Zest the lemon (if using) before juicing.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and butter (if using). Stir gently to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low, and continue stirring occasionally. If using pectin, add it according to package directions.
  5. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam reaches setting point (see notes for testing).
  6. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids and rings.
  7. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (optional, for longer shelf life). Cool completely; check seals.
  8. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate unsealed jars.

Notes

To test for setting point: Place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. Let it cool slightly. Push the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles, it's ready. A jam thermometer should read 220°F (104°C).