Freezer Berry Jam
A simple, homemade freezer jam bursting with fresh berry flavors, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts. Ideal for preserving summer’s bounty.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed berries, Sure-Jel, and Karo syrup in a bowl.
- Let the mixture stand for 1 hour to thicken.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars.
- Seal the jars and freeze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker jam, consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice, which enhances flavor and aids in preservation. If you don't have Sure-Jel, you can use another pectin brand, though the results may vary. For a lower-sugar option, try substituting Karo syrup with agave nectar or honey, keeping in mind that sweetness levels will change. Remember, this jam can be made with other berries too, like blueberries or blackberries.
Serving Suggestions
This freezer berry jam is perfect for spreading on toast or pancakes, and it pairs beautifully with Mimere'S Banana Toast for a delicious breakfast. It can also be used as a filling for cakes or pastries. For added flair, serve it alongside a cheese platter, or drizzle over yogurt or ice cream for a sweet treat. It’s also great as a topping for Fresh Strawberry Jello Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store the freezer berry jam in sterilized jars or airtight containers. Make sure to leave some headspace to allow for expansion as it freezes. The jam can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 year. Once thawed, use the jam within 2-3 weeks if kept in the refrigerator. Avoid refreezing any thawed portions for best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Freezer Berry Jam contains roughly 133 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (181% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g 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 for this jam?
Yes, you can use frozen berries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the right consistency in your jam. Frozen berries are a great alternative when fresh berries are out of season or if you're looking to save time on preparation.
How long does the jam take to set?
The mixture should stand for about 1 hour to thicken properly. After pouring it into jars and freezing, it can take several hours to set completely in the freezer. Once thawed, the jam will maintain its best texture for about 2-3 weeks when stored in the fridge.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by substituting Karo syrup with a sugar alternative like agave or honey, keeping in mind the sweetness level will change. However, this may affect the setting properties of the jam, so it's best to use a pectin designed for low-sugar recipes if you decide to make significant reductions.
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).