In the summertime, when strawberries are at their sweetest, there’s nothing more satisfying than making homemade strawberry jam. But what if you’re watching your sugar intake? That’s where this recipe for strawberry freezer jam with Splenda comes in. By substituting regular granulated sugar with Splenda, you can enjoy the delicious taste of strawberry jam without the guilt.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires no cooking or canning. All you need is fresh strawberries, Splenda, pectin, and a few common kitchen tools. The end result is a sweet and tangy jam that can be stored in the freezer for up to a year.
To start, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. Look for fresh, ripe strawberries that are free of blemishes. The quality of the strawberries will greatly impact the taste of your jam, so choose wisely. Next, you’ll need Splenda, a sugar substitute that is made from sucralose. Splenda is a great alternative to regular sugar, as it provides the same sweet taste without the added calories.
Why Make Strawberry Freezer Jam with Splenda?
Strawberry freezer jam is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for preserving the fresh taste of strawberries. Traditional recipes for strawberry jam typically use a large amount of sugar to help set the jam and preserve it. However, using Splenda instead of sugar offers a healthier alternative while still maintaining the same great taste.
1. Health Benefits
Splenda is a sugar substitute that contains zero calories and does not affect blood sugar levels, making it a suitable option for those who are watching their sugar intake or have diabetes. Using Splenda in strawberry freezer jam allows you to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries without the added sugar.
2. Reduced Calories
By using Splenda instead of sugar, you can significantly reduce the calorie content of your strawberry freezer jam. This is especially beneficial for individuals who are trying to manage their weight or are following a low-calorie diet.
3. Preserves Freshness
Strawberry freezer jam made with Splenda retains the fresh taste and vibrant color of the strawberries. The jam can be stored in the freezer for an extended period without compromising its texture or flavor. This means that you can enjoy the taste of summer strawberries all year round.
4. Easy Preparation
Strawberry freezer jam with Splenda is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a batch of delicious and nutritious homemade jam. It’s a great way to take advantage of an abundance of fresh strawberries during the summer months.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional strawberry jam, making freezer jam with Splenda is a fantastic option. It offers numerous health benefits, reduces the calorie content, preserves the freshness of the strawberries, and is quick and easy to prepare. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of strawberries without the guilt!
Benefits of Making Strawberry Freezer Jam with Splenda
Making strawberry freezer jam with Splenda offers several benefits for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still enjoying the sweet and tangy taste of strawberry jam. Below are some of the advantages of using Splenda in your homemade strawberry jam:
1. Reduced Sugar Content
One of the main benefits of using Splenda is the reduction in sugar content. Splenda is a sugar substitute that provides the sweetness of sugar without the added calories. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those trying to manage their weight.
2. Healthier Option
Making strawberry freezer jam with Splenda is a healthier option compared to traditional jams that are loaded with sugar. Splenda is low in calories and does not contribute to tooth decay like regular sugar does. Additionally, by using fresh strawberries in the jam, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits of this fruit, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pro Tip: When making strawberry freezer jam with Splenda, choose ripe and fresh strawberries for the best flavor and nutritional value.
3. Easy Preparation
Making strawberry freezer jam with Splenda is a simple and quick process. You only need a few ingredients, including fresh strawberries, Splenda, pectin, and lemon juice. There is no need for lengthy cooking or canning processes. Once the jam is prepared, it can be stored in the freezer for later use, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.
4. Long Shelf Life
Freezing the strawberry jam allows it to have a longer shelf life compared to traditional jams that require canning. By preparing and storing the jam properly in airtight containers, you can enjoy the delicious taste of homemade strawberry jam for several months.
By using Splenda in your strawberry freezer jam, you can enjoy the taste of sweet and tangy strawberry jam while reducing your sugar intake. Additionally, the preparation is easy, and the jam can be stored for an extended period, making it a convenient and healthier option for jam lovers.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Strawberry Freezer Jam with Splenda:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and crushed
- 4 cups Splenda No Calorie Sweetener
- 1 package powdered fruit pectin
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting the jam-making process. Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe, as they provide the best flavor. Splenda No Calorie Sweetener is used as a sugar substitute to keep the jam lower in calories. Powdered fruit pectin is necessary for setting the jam, and lemon juice adds a tangy flavor.
What You’ll Need to Make Strawberry Freezer Jam with Splenda
Before you start making strawberry freezer jam with Splenda, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
- 2 cups Splenda granulated sweetener
- 1 package (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
- 1/2 cup water
Equipment:
- A large saucepan
- A potato masher or fork
- A canning funnel
- Glass jam jars or freezer-safe containers
- Labels or marker for labeling the jars
Note: It’s important to have sterilized jars for preserving the jam. You can sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes before filling them with the jam.
Choosing the Right Strawberries
When making strawberry freezer jam with Splenda, it’s important to choose the right strawberries to ensure the best flavor and texture. Here are a few tips for selecting strawberries:
1. Freshness
Look for strawberries that are firm and plump with a bright red color. Avoid fruits that have soft spots or mold, as they may be overly ripe or spoiled.
2. Size
Although size does not necessarily affect taste, larger strawberries tend to have a more intense flavor and a better texture. Pick strawberries that are on the larger side for optimal results.
3. Aroma
Take a whiff of the strawberries before purchasing them. They should have a strong, sweet aroma, indicating that they are ripe and flavorful. If they lack fragrance, they may not be fully ripe or may have been picked before they were ready.
4. Organic or Conventional
Consider choosing organic strawberries if possible, as they are grown without synthetic pesticides and chemicals. However, if organic strawberries are not available or are too expensive, conventionally grown strawberries can still be used in your freezer jam recipe.
By selecting the right strawberries, you can ensure that your strawberry freezer jam with Splenda will have the perfect balance of sweetness and fruity flavor. So, keep these tips in mind the next time you go strawberry shopping!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make homemade strawberry freezer jam using Splenda:
Step 1: | Gather all the necessary ingredients, including strawberries, Splenda, pectin, and lemon juice. |
Step 2: | Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove any stems. Pat them dry and cut into small pieces. |
Step 3: | In a large bowl, mix the strawberries and Splenda together. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. |
Step 4: | In a separate bowl, combine the pectin and lemon juice. Stir until the pectin is completely dissolved. |
Step 5: | Add the pectin mixture to the strawberry mixture. Stir well to combine. |
Step 6: | Let the jam sit for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. |
Step 7: | Pour the jam into clean containers or jars, leaving a 1/2-inch space at the top. Seal tightly. |
Step 8: | Allow the jam to sit at room temperature for 24 hours to set. |
Step 9: | After the jam has set, transfer it to the freezer for long-term storage. |
Your homemade strawberry freezer jam with Splenda is now ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Freezer Jam with Splenda
Making homemade strawberry freezer jam with Splenda is a great way to enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries without all the added sugar. Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious and healthy strawberry freezer jam.
- Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients: 4 cups of strawberries (washed and hulled), 1 ½ cups of Splenda, ¼ cup of lemon juice, and 1 package of pectin.
- Mash the strawberries in a large bowl until they are mostly smooth with some small chunks remaining.
- In a separate bowl, combine the Splenda and pectin and mix well.
- Add the Splenda and pectin mixture to the mashed strawberries and stir until well combined.
- Let the strawberry mixture sit for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the pectin is fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into clean, freezer-safe containers, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Seal the containers tightly and let them sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the jam to thicken.
- After 24 hours, transfer the containers to the freezer and freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Once frozen, the strawberry freezer jam can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade strawberry freezer jam, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. Spread it on toast, pancakes, or use it as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. Enjoy the sweet taste of summer any time of the year with this delicious and healthy strawberry freezer jam made with Splenda.
FAQ
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones! In fact, fresh strawberries may yield a better-tasting jam, as they are typically sweeter and juicier. Simply wash and crush the fresh strawberries and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. Remember to adjust the recipe if using a different amount of fresh strawberries. Enjoy your homemade strawberry freezer jam!
Is Splenda the only sweetener option for this recipe?
No, Splenda is not the only sweetener option for making strawberry freezer jam. While Splenda is a popular choice due to its low calorie content, you can use other sweeteners of your choice as well. Some alternatives to Splenda include Stevia, honey, or regular granulated sugar. Adjust the amount of sweetener according to your taste preference. Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners to find the one that suits you best!
How long does it take for the jam to set in the freezer?
The jam should be left at room temperature for 24 hours before moving it to the freezer. This gives the pectin enough time to set and the jam to thicken. Once the jam is in the freezer, it will continue to set further and become even thicker. It generally takes a few hours in the freezer for the jam to reach a spreadable consistency. However, you can also use the jam right away if you prefer a thinner consistency. Enjoy your homemade strawberry freezer jam!
Can I use this recipe to make jam with other fruits?
Yes, you can use this recipe as a base to make jam with other fruits! Simply substitute the strawberries with your fruit of choice and adjust the amount of sweetener accordingly. Keep in mind that different fruits have different levels of natural sweetness, so you may need to taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking. Some popular options include raspberry freezer jam, blueberry freezer jam, or peach freezer jam. Get creative and enjoy experimenting with different fruit flavours!