The Only Strawberry Jam Recipe I Trust – Full of Flavor & No Thickeners 🍓✨
If you’ve been searching for the perfect homemade strawberry jam recipe, this is the one! No added pectin, no thickeners—just pure strawberry flavor that shines through. Every spoonful tastes like fresh, sun-ripened strawberries, making it perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with desserts, or even enjoying straight from the jar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ No Thickeners Needed – The natural pectin in strawberries thickens the jam beautifully.
✔ Pure Strawberry Flavor – No artificial ingredients, just fresh, juicy berries.
✔ Simple & Time-Tested – A traditional method for deep, rich flavors.
✔ Versatile Use – Perfect for toast, yogurt, cakes, and more!
✔ Long-Lasting – Properly stored, this jam lasts for months.
Cooking & Prep Times
⏱ Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight maceration)
⏱ Cooking Time: 30–40 minutes (split into stages)
⏱ Cooling Time: Several hours between stages
⏱ Total Time: About 24 hours
⏱ Servings: Makes about 4–5 medium jars
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✅ Large, wide saucepan or jam pot
✅ Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
✅ Strainer for washing strawberries
✅ Sterilized glass jars with lids
✅ Ladle & funnel for easy jar filling
The Best Strawberry Jam Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 4–5 Jars)
✅ 2 kg (4.4 lbs) fresh strawberries – Sweet, ripe berries work best!
✅ 1 kg (2.2 lbs) sugar – Adjust to taste (more for sweeter jam, less for a tart finish).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
1️⃣ Gently rinse strawberries under running water to prevent them from absorbing too much moisture.
2️⃣ Remove the stems and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 2: Macerate the Berries Overnight
1️⃣ In a large bowl, layer the strawberries with sugar.
2️⃣ Cover and let sit overnight at room temperature. This process draws out natural juices, eliminating the need for added water.
Step 3: First Cooking Stage
1️⃣ Transfer the strawberries and their natural syrup to a wide, low saucepan.
2️⃣ Heat on low to medium, stirring occasionally.
3️⃣ Bring to a gentle simmer and skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
4️⃣ Let simmer for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Repeat Cooking Stages
1️⃣ Once cooled, reheat the jam on low heat and bring it to a simmer again.
2️⃣ Let it bubble gently for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat and cool completely.
3️⃣ Repeat this process 2–3 times for the best consistency and deep flavor.
Step 5: Jar & Store
1️⃣ While still hot, pour the jam into sterilized jars using a funnel.
2️⃣ Seal tightly and let cool at room temperature.
3️⃣ Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate after opening.
Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Jam
✔ Skip the Water! – Using only strawberry juice preserves the intense natural flavor.
✔ Use the Right Pot – A wide, shallow saucepan allows better evaporation for a thicker jam.
✔ Cook in Stages – Cooking in short bursts keeps the color vibrant and prevents overcooking.
✔ Let the Jam Rest – Cooling between stages allows flavors to deepen and thicken naturally.
✔ For Chunky Jam – Leave whole strawberries or mash lightly with a fork before cooking.
✔ For Smooth Jam – Use a hand blender for a finer texture before jarring.
Serving Suggestions 🍓
🍞 Spread on Toast – Classic and delicious!
🥞 Drizzle Over Pancakes & Waffles – Adds a fruity, homemade touch.
🍨 Swirl Into Yogurt or Ice Cream – A perfect, natural sweetener.
🍰 Use as a Cake Filling – Pairs beautifully with vanilla sponge or cheesecake.
🍪 Glaze for Cookies – Spread a thin layer between sandwich cookies.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
📌 Room Temperature: Store sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year.
📌 Refrigeration: Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks.
📌 Freezing Option: Pour jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving ½ inch space at the top. Freeze for up to 6 months.
FAQs
1️⃣ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Thaw first and drain excess liquid before using.
2️⃣ How do I know when my jam is ready?
Place a small spoonful on a cold plate—if it wrinkles when you push it, it’s done!
3️⃣ Do I have to add lemon juice?
Not for thickening, but 1–2 tbsp lemon juice can brighten the flavor and help preserve color.
4️⃣ Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! You can reduce sugar by 10–20%, but lower sugar may result in a softer jam.
5️⃣ What if my jam is too runny?
Cook a little longer, or add a natural thickener like chia seeds after cooking.
The Best Homemade Strawberry Jam – No Thickeners Needed
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Wide, shallow saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sterilized jars & lids
- Ladle & funnel
Ingredients
- 2 kg 4.4 lbs fresh strawberries
- 1 kg 2.2 lbs sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries – Wash, hull, and dry the strawberries.
- Macerate Overnight – Layer strawberries with sugar and let sit overnight.
- First Cooking Stage – Bring to a simmer for 1–2 minutes, then cool completely.
- Repeat Cooking – Simmer and cool 2–3 more times for the best consistency.
- Jar & Store – Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and store in a cool place
Notes
✔ Store sealed jars for up to 1 year.
✔ Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks.
✔ Try adding lemon juice for extra brightness.