Berry Freezer Jam
Sweet and tangy berry freezer jam offers fresh fruit flavor with simple ingredients, perfect for summer mornings or gifting to loved ones. Easy to make and store.
Ingredients
- 4 c. mashed berries
- 4 c. sugar ⓘ
- 1 tsp. Epsom salts
Instructions
- Combine berries and sugar in a 5-quart saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add Epsom salts.
- Stir for 5 minutes.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
- Let cool, then store in freezer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jam, consider using a potato masher or blender to mash the berries thoroughly. If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar to 3 cups. Epsom salts help with texture, but make sure to use food-grade. For a fun twist, try mixing in some lemon juice or zest for added brightness. This jam pairs beautifully with toast or as a topping on pancakes.
Serving Suggestions
This berry freezer jam is perfect as a spread on biscuits or toast, and it makes a delightful topping for yogurt or ice cream. You can also stir it into oatmeal or use it in dessert recipes, such as layered cakes or pastries. It complements savory dishes too, like cheese boards or charcuterie platters.
Storage & Reheating
Store the jam in sterilized jars in the freezer for up to a year. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within 2-3 weeks. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the fridge or use a microwave for a quick defrost. Ensure to keep it sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Berry Freezer Jam contains roughly 226 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen berries can be used for this recipe, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before mashing. They may result in a slightly different texture but will still yield delicious jam.
Is this jam suitable for canning?
This recipe is specifically designed for freezer jam and is not recommended for traditional canning methods. The Epsom salts used in this recipe do not provide the necessary preservation needed for canning.
Can I make this recipe without sugar?
While sugar is essential for both sweetness and preservation, you can experiment with sugar substitutes like agave or honey, but the texture and flavor will vary. Check for compatible pectin recipes for low-sugar options.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).