Olivia Carter
If you’re a fan of homemade jam and love strawberries, then this recipe for strawberry freezer jam with Jello is a must-try!
Strawberry jam is a quintessential summer treat, and making it at home is easier than you might think. Instead of going through the traditional canning process, this recipe uses Jello to set the jam and doesn’t require any special equipment.
Made with fresh strawberries and just a few simple ingredients, this strawberry freezer jam is bursting with sweet strawberry flavor. The Jello adds a lovely color and helps to thicken the jam, giving it the perfect consistency. Plus, since it’s stored in the freezer, it will keep for months, so you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round!
To make this strawberry freezer jam, you’ll need ripe strawberries, sugar, Jello, and pectin. Begin by hulling and crushing the strawberries, then mix in the sugar and let it sit for a few minutes to macerate. Next, add the Jello and pectin, and bring the mixture to a boil. Finally, ladle the jam into jars or containers, and let it cool before transferring to the freezer.
Whether you spread it on toast, drizzle it over ice cream, or use it as a filling for cakes and pastries, this strawberry freezer jam with Jello is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s a versatile, delicious treat that captures the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries in a simple and convenient way.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Strawberry Freezer Jam With Jello
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
Before starting, make sure you have gathered all the necessary ingredients for making strawberry freezer jam with Jello:
- 4 cups strawberries, washed and hulled
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored Jello
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
Using a potato masher or fork, mash the strawberries to your desired consistency. Some prefer chunkier jam, while others prefer a smoother texture. It’s up to you!
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the mashed strawberries, sugar, Jello, water, and lemon juice. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Fill the Containers
While the jam mixture is still hot, carefully pour it into clean, sterilized containers. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Let the jam cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then cover with lids and transfer to the refrigerator to set for at least 24 hours.
Step 6: Freeze and Enjoy
Once the jam has set, transfer the containers to the freezer. The jam can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Note: This recipe does not require any additional pectin, as the Jello acts as a natural thickener.
Now that you have learned how to make strawberry freezer jam with Jello, you can enjoy the delicious taste of fresh strawberries all year round!
Gathering the Ingredients and Supplies
Before you can start making strawberry freezer jam with Jello, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of crushed strawberries
- 4 cups of sugar
- 1 package of strawberry-flavored Jello
- 3/4 cup of water
Supplies:
- A large mixing bowl
- A canning funnel
- A ladle or spoon for transferring the jam
- Jars for storing the jam (make sure they are freezer-safe)
- Airtight, freezer-safe lids for the jars
- A pot for boiling the jars and lids
- A towel for drying the jars
Make sure you have everything ready and organized before you start the process. This will help you work efficiently and avoid any last-minute trips to the store. Once you have all the ingredients and supplies, you’re ready to move on to the next steps of making the strawberry freezer jam with Jello.
Preparing the Strawberries
To make strawberry freezer jam with Jello, the first step is to properly prepare the strawberries. Follow these steps to ensure your jam turns out delicious:
1. Choose ripe strawberries: Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid overripe or mushy ones as they may affect the texture of the jam.
2. Wash and hull the strawberries: Rinse the strawberries gently under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the stems and green leaves by carefully cutting or pulling them off.
3. Mash the strawberries: Place the hulled strawberries in a large bowl and use a potato masher or fork to mash them until they reach your desired consistency. For a chunkier jam, mash them less, and for a smoother jam, mash them more.
4. Measure the mashed strawberries: Measure out the mashed strawberries using a measuring cup. You will need a specific amount of strawberries depending on the recipe you are following.
5. Prepare the strawberries for cooking: Transfer the mashed strawberries to a saucepan and stir in any additional ingredients specified by your recipe, such as sugar or lemon juice.
6. Let the strawberries macerate: Allow the mashed strawberries to sit for a few minutes to macerate. This process helps release the natural juices and enhances the flavor of the jam.
Note: It is important to follow the recipe you are using for specific instructions on preparing the strawberries, as different recipes may vary slightly in their methods.
Mixing in the Jello and Sugar
Once you have prepared your strawberries by washing and chopping them, it’s time to mix in the Jello and sugar to create the delicious flavors of your freezer jam.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared strawberries with the required amount of Jello mix. The Jello will give the jam its vibrant color and fruity taste. Make sure to evenly distribute the Jello mix over the strawberries.
Next, add the sugar to the mixture. The sugar will not only enhance the sweetness of the jam but also help to thicken it as it sets in the freezer. Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix the strawberries, Jello, and sugar together.
It’s important to thoroughly mix the ingredients to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and well incorporated. This will help in preventing any graininess in the final jam and ensure a smooth, spreadable texture.
Continue stirring the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved and no granules remain. You can taste the mixture at this point to adjust the sweetness to your preference. If needed, add more sugar gradually to reach the desired level of sweetness.
Once the Jello and sugar are well mixed with the strawberries, the mixture is ready to be transferred to jars for freezing. In the next step, we will learn how to properly store and freeze the strawberry freezer jam to enjoy its delightful taste for months to come.
Letting the Mixture Set
Once you have mixed the jello and the sugar together, it is important to let the mixture set before freezing it. This will ensure that the jam has the right consistency and texture.
To let the mixture set, you will need to cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about an hour. During this time, the mixture will thicken and become more gel-like.
While you are waiting for the mixture to set, prepare your jars or containers by washing them thoroughly with hot soapy water. Rinse them well and let them air dry.
Once the mixture has set and your jars are prepared, it is time to fill the containers with the strawberry jam. Use a ladle or spoon to carefully transfer the jam into the jars, leaving a small amount of space at the top for expansion during freezing.
After filling the jars, place the lids on tightly and label them with the date. It is best to use the jam within a year, so make sure to keep track of when it was made.
Now that your jars are filled, you can either freeze them immediately or place them in the refrigerator to enjoy within a week. Freezing the jam will allow it to be stored for a longer period, while refrigerating it will keep it fresh for a shorter amount of time.
Once frozen, the strawberry freezer jam can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before serving. It can be used on toast, in yogurt, or as a topping for ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
Freezing and Storing the Jam
Once your homemade strawberry freezer jam with Jello is ready, it’s important to properly store and freeze it to preserve its freshness and flavor. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Cool the Jam
Before transferring the jam into storage containers, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This helps the jam thicken and set properly.
2. Choose Storage Containers
Opt for high-quality airtight containers or glass jars with tight-fitting lids that are free from cracks or damages. Make sure the containers are clean and dry before use.
3. Fill the Containers
Spoon the strawberry freezer jam into the containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
4. Label and Date
It’s essential to label each container with the type of jam and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of the jam’s freshness and ensure you use the oldest jars first.
5. Freeze the Jam
Seal the containers tightly and place them in the freezer. Ensure they are placed on a flat surface to prevent leakage or spillage. Keep the jam frozen until ready to use.
6. Thawing and Shelf Life
To thaw the jam, simply transfer a jar from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, the jam should be used within 3 weeks. For longer storage, it is recommended to keep the jam in the freezer.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (thawed jam) | Up to 3 weeks |
| Freezer (frozen jam) | Up to 1 year |
FAQ
What is strawberry freezer jam?
Strawberry freezer jam is a type of jam that is made using fresh strawberries and gelatin (Jello). It is a quick and easy method of preserving strawberries without having to go through the canning process.
How do I make strawberry freezer jam with Jello?
To make strawberry freezer jam with Jello, you will need fresh strawberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and strawberry flavored gelatin (Jello). First, crush the strawberries and mix them with sugar, allowing them to sit for about 10 minutes. In a separate saucepan, bring water and lemon juice to a boil, then stir in the strawberry gelatin until dissolved. Combine the gelatin mixture with the crushed strawberries, stirring until well mixed. Pour the jam into containers and let it cool before freezing.
What are the benefits of making strawberry freezer jam with Jello?
Making strawberry freezer jam with Jello offers several benefits. Firstly, it is a quick and easy method of preserving strawberries, as it does not require the lengthy canning process. Additionally, the use of Jello gives the jam a vibrant color and a slightly different texture compared to traditional jams. The gelatin also helps the jam to set properly and gives it a longer shelf life in the freezer.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries for freezer jam?
Yes, you can use other fruits instead of strawberries for freezer jam. The process of making freezer jam with Jello can be applied to a variety of fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. Simply substitute the strawberries with your desired fruit and use the corresponding flavored gelatin (Jello) for the best results.
How long does strawberry freezer jam with Jello last in the freezer?
When stored in an airtight container in the freezer, strawberry freezer jam with Jello can last for about 1 year. However, it is recommended to consume it within 6-8 months for the best taste and texture. Remember to label the containers with the date of preparation to keep track of their freshness.
