Description

A luscious, small-batch strawberry jam made with just three ingredients—fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. It’s thick, rich, and bursting with berry flavor, and doesn’t require any pectin. This is a classic, foolproof recipe you can make in under an hour and enjoy all year long. Whether spread on toast, swirled into yogurt, or added to a cheese board, this jam is sure to become a pantry favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds (900g) fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
3 ½ cups (700g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Optional: pinch of salt (⅛ teaspoon)

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Instructions

Place the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot.
Stir well and let the mixture sit for 15–30 minutes to macerate.
Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling. Skim off foam.
Use a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries as they cook.
Stir frequently and simmer for 35–45 minutes until thickened.
Test doneness on a cold plate—drag your finger through to see if it leaves a trail.
Let jam cool for 10 minutes before transferring to sterilized jars.
Seal jars and allow to cool completely before refrigerating or canning.

Notes

Use ripe, sweet strawberries for best flavor.

Adjust sugar slightly based on the sweetness of the berries.

Don’t skip lemon juice—it helps the jam set.

If canning, process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Preserves
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 2 ½ cups (3 small jars)
Calories: 45