Name: Irresistibly Fresh Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1460 min
Ingredients: 3.5 cups Fresh Strawberries (Choose ripe, juicy strawberries.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (Enhances flavor and preserves jam.); 1 box Sure Jell Low Sugar Freezer Jam Pectin (Essential for achieving the perfect set.); 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Sweetens jam and aids setting process.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the sweet scent of strawberries filled the air, instantly transporting me to sun-soaked summer days. That’s the magic of making Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam; it captures all the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries, without the guilt of excess sugar. This no-cook jam is not only a breeze to whip up in just 20 minutes, but it’s also a delightful, healthier alternative to traditional jams, perfect for your morning toast or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just embarking on your culinary journey, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings joy and sweetness into everyday life. Ready to savor the taste of summer all year round? Let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!

Why is This Jam So Special?

Quick and Easy: This no-cook jam comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gifts.

Fresh Strawberry Goodness: The vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries shines through, delivering a taste that far exceeds any store-bought option.

Low Sugar Delight: With significantly reduced sugar, you can indulge without the guilt—ideal for health-conscious food lovers!

Versatile Use: Enjoy it on toast, swirled into yogurt, or baked into delightful treats like Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.

Long-Lasting: This jam is perfect for meal prepping; just freeze and enjoy fresh strawberry taste all year! Don’t forget to check out my Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies for more easy recipes to complement your meal planning.

Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam Ingredients

For the Jam

Fresh Strawberries – Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor; you can substitute with thawed frozen strawberries but remember to adjust the liquid content.
Fresh Lemon Juice – This ingredient enhances the strawberry flavor and is crucial for preserving your jam, so don’t skip it!
Sure Jell Low Sugar Freezer Jam Pectin – Essential for achieving a perfect set without cooking; regular pectin isn’t a suitable substitute here.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your jam while aiding in the setting process; consider alternatives like monkfruit sweetener cautiously as they may impact texture and taste.

Enjoy crafting your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam with these simple, fresh ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam

Step 1: Prepare Strawberries
Start by hulking and rinsing your fresh strawberries thoroughly. Using a potato masher, gently crush the strawberries in a large mixing bowl until they’re broken down yet still maintain some chunky texture. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes and will yield a vibrant, ruby-red mix, perfect for your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam.

Step 2: Measure Fruit
Once you’ve crushed the strawberries, carefully transfer the mixture to a measuring cup. Ensure you have exactly 3½ cups of crushed strawberries for the best results when setting the jam. This precise measurement is crucial; too much liquid will make the jam runny, so take your time to get it just right.

Step 3: Mix Pectin
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the Sure Jell Low Sugar Freezer Jam Pectin. This dry mixing helps to prevent clumps from forming in your jam. Take a moment to ensure it’s fully combined, as this pectin is vital to achieving the perfect, no-cook consistency in your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually stir in the measured crushed strawberries along with the fresh lemon juice. Mix this blend for about 2 minutes, ensuring the pectin fully hydrates. You will notice the mixture becoming thicker; this signals that the pectin is activating, enhancing the fresh fruit flavors wonderfully.

Step 5: Add Sugar
Now, it’s time to stir in the granulated sugar, doing so vigorously to ensure it dissolves completely. Take about 3-5 minutes for this step, as you want the mixture to reach a thick and glossy texture. The sugar will create a delightful sweetness that balances beautifully with the tartness of the strawberries.

Step 6: Jar the Jam
Using a spoon, carefully fill your half-pint freezer-safe jars with the jam mixture. Leave about ¼ inch of headspace at the top of each jar, helping to prevent overflow during freezing. As you fill, tap the jars gently to eliminate any air pockets for a smoother result in your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam.

Step 7: Chill
Finally, place the filled jars in the freezer for about 24 hours, allowing the jam to set properly. After this time, it will transform into a thick, glossy jam filled with delicious strawberry chunks. Make sure to label your jars before storing them, so you can enjoy this delightful treat throughout the year!

Expert Tips for Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam

Measurement Precision: Ensure you measure 3½ cups of crushed strawberries accurately; excess liquid can lead to a runny jam instead of the perfect thick consistency.
Whisk Carefully: Whisk the Sure Jell pectin in a dry bowl before adding to ensure it hydrates properly without forming clumps, which could mess with the texture of your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the ingredients just enough to integrate them without overworking; over-mixing can result in a jam that doesn’t set as well.
Thawing Tips: When you’re ready to use the frozen jam, transfer jars to the refrigerator for about 24 hours to ensure gentle thawing and maintain quality.
Storage Success: Store your jars at the back of the freezer for the most stable temperature; this will help preserve freshness for up to one year.

Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these fun twists!

Pinch of Salt: Adds a delightful balance to the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Vanilla Bean Paste: Introduce a rich and creamy depth to your jam, perfect for those who enjoy a touch of indulgence. Just a teaspoon can elevate your jam to new heights!
Balsamic Glaze: For a unique flavor twist, incorporate a teaspoon of balsamic glaze. This addition brings a sophisticated tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of strawberries.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh mint or basil for a refreshing herbal twist. Infuse your jam with a handful of finely chopped herbs, and you’ll have a delightful pairing for your morning toast.
Zesty Citrus: Brighten your jam with a splash of orange juice or zest. This citrusy addition complements the strawberries and adds a wonderful pop of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a hint of heat. The spiciness will offer an unexpected yet pleasant contrast to the sweetness.
Mixed Berry Delight: Challenge your taste buds by swapping half of the strawberries with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries. This recipe is wonderful for experimenting!

And if you’re looking for more delicious dishes to complement your pantry staples, consider whipping up my Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet or a Low Carb Burrito for a satisfying meal!

Make Ahead Options

Making this Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor fresh strawberries all year round! You can crush and measure your strawberries up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, prepare the pectin mixture and store it separately in an airtight container. When you’re ready to make the jam, simply combine the strawberries with the pectin and lemon juice, mix in the sugar, and jar it up. This method not only saves you time during busy mornings but ensures your jam is just as delicious and vibrant as if you made it all in one go!

How to Store and Freeze Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam

Fridge: Keep opened jars of Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Ensure they are tightly sealed to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze jars of jam for up to 1 year. Make sure to leave ¼ inch of headspace in each jar to accommodate expansion as it freezes.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer a jar from the freezer to the fridge, allowing it to thaw for about 24 hours before use. This ensures a smooth texture and great flavor.

Reheating: If your jam is a bit too cold, gently mix it with a spoon after thawing to reincorporate any separated liquid and achieve that delightful, spreadable consistency.

What to Serve with Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam

Spread the joy of homemade treats by creating delightful pairings that perfectly complement your jam.

Toasted Brioche: This warm, buttery bread provides a soft base that marries well with the sweet acidity of the jam, creating a heavenly breakfast option.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: The creaminess of Greek yogurt combined with fresh fruit and your jam adds delightful layers of flavor and texture to your morning routine.
Scones: Flaky, buttery scones are a classic choice that allow the jam to shine, making them perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.
Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle some jam over fluffy pancakes or crispy waffles for a burst of fruity sweetness—great for lazy weekend mornings!
Cheesecake Cookies: Fold the jam into cookie batter before baking for a fruity twist on classic cookies, combining sweetness with gooey goodness.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink, mix a spoonful of your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam into sparkling water for a bubbly, fruity delight.
Fruit Salad: Toss together seasonal fruits to create a vibrant fruit salad that complements the refreshing taste of your jam perfectly.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with your vibrant jam creates a simple yet indulgent dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!
Cottage Cheese: Pairing the jam with cottage cheese makes for a protein-packed snack that’s both satisfying and delicious, showcasing the jam’s taste wonderfully.

Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best strawberries for the jam?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ripe, firm berries that are bright red and free of dark spots or blemishes. The best strawberries have a sweet smell and feel slightly soft to the touch. If you must use frozen strawberries, remember to thaw and drain them fully, adjusting the liquid in the recipe accordingly.

How should I store my Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam once made?
For opened jars, store your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. Be sure to keep the lids tightly sealed to retain flavor and moisture. For unopened jars, freeze them for optimal freshness, where they can last for up to one year; simply leave ¼ inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.

Can I freeze the jam? What’s the best way to do it?
Certainly! To freeze your Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam, spoon the mixture into freezer-safe half-pint jars, ensuring you leave about ¼ inch of space at the top. Seal them tightly and store at the back of your freezer. When you’re ready to use a jar, just move it to the refrigerator for about 24 hours to thaw—perfect and hassle-free!

What if my jam turns out runny? How can I fix it?
If your jam hasn’t set as expected and is looking runny, don’t worry! You can try this method: pour the jam back into a saucepan and gradually stir in another packet of Sure Jell pectin. Bring it to a gentle boil while mixing well, then return it to jars. This second chance often helps re-establish that thick, luscious consistency you desire.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! While the Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam is relatively healthy, always be cautious about allergies. Make sure no one has sensitivities to strawberries, lemon juice, or the sugar choice you use. Additionally, if you’re considering substitutes for the sugar, be aware that sweeteners like monkfruit may alter the texture and taste. Always do a test batch to find what works best for you!