Strawberry Jelly With Less Sugar
A refreshing strawberry jelly with less sugar, perfect for summer desserts or breakfast spreads. Its sweet, fruity flavor is complemented by a smooth jelly texture, making it a delightful treat for family gatherings or casual snacking. Easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, it offers a healthier twist on traditional jams.
Ingredients
- 6 cups smashed strawberries
- 6 cups sugar ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix instant clear jel with 1 cup sugar.
- Add berries to the rest of the sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix Sure-Jell with 2 1/4 cups water and bring to a boil, boiling for one minute.
- Pour the boiling mixture over the strawberries and stir well.
- Add the remaining sugar with the instant clear jel and mix well for 3 minutes, or use an eggbeater to mix.
- Pour into jars or containers and freeze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker consistency, consider adding more instant clear jel, or if you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 5 cups. Ensure your strawberries are fully ripe for the best flavor. You can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren't available, just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry jelly is perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over pancakes, or using as a filling for pastries. It pairs beautifully with homemade crackers (Wheat Thins) for a delightful snack. Consider serving it alongside cheese for a sweet and savory cheese board experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store your strawberry jelly in airtight containers or jars in the freezer. It can last up to a year if properly sealed. To use, simply transfer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, consume within a week for the best taste and quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry Jelly With Less Sugar contains roughly 338 calories, with 7g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 16g 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 other fruits to make jelly?
Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries. Just follow the same process, but keep in mind that different fruits may require slight adjustments in sugar and cooking time for optimal results.
Is this jelly suitable for a low-sugar diet?
While this recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, you can reduce the sugar content by using sugar substitutes or reducing the total sugar amount. Be sure to check the compatibility of your chosen substitute with canning processes if you plan to store it long-term.
How can I ensure my jelly sets properly?
To ensure your jelly sets, make sure to measure the ingredients accurately. The ratio of sugar to fruit is critical for proper gel formation. Additionally, allow the mixture to boil adequately as instructed, and cool it in an undisturbed environment to set properly.
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).