How to Make Freezer Jam with Sure-Jell A Simple Guide to Fresh, Homemade JamIf you’ve ever wanted to capture the flavor of ripe fruit and enjoy it all year round, freezer jam with Sure-Jell is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to do it. Unlike traditional jam, this method requires no canning, no boiling jars, and no lengthy cooking process. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for beginners who want to try homemade preserves without the hassle.
What Is Freezer Jam?
Freezer jam is a type of fruit spread that doesn’t require cooking the fruit or sterilizing jars. Instead, the fruit is crushed, mixed with sugar and pectin, then stored in the freezer until ready to use. This method helps preserve the fruit’s natural flavor and color, making it taste as fresh as the day it was picked.
Why Choose Sure-Jell for Freezer Jam?
Sure-Jell is a trusted fruit pectin product that helps jam set properly. It’s widely used in freezer jam recipes because
-
It activates without needing high heat.
-
It’s easy to find in most grocery stores.
-
It provides reliable results when instructions are followed.
-
It works well with many kinds of fruit.
With Sure-Jell, even first-timers can make jam that looks and tastes amazing.
Ingredients for Basic Freezer Jam
Here’s what you’ll need for a basic strawberry freezer jam recipe using Sure-Jell
-
2 cups crushed strawberries (about 1 quart whole strawberries)
-
4 cups granulated sugar
-
1 box Sure-Jell Fruit Pectin (regular, not low-sugar)
-
¾ cup water
-
Freezer-safe containers with lids
Make sure to use ripe, clean fruit. Remove any stems or damaged spots before crushing the berries.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit
Wash the fruit thoroughly. For strawberries, remove the green tops and mash the berries until you have 2 cups of crushed fruit. Keep some texture; you don’t want a smoothie-like consistency.
2. Mix Sugar and Fruit
In a large bowl, mix the crushed fruit and sugar. Stir it well and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the sugar to begin dissolving into the fruit.
3. Dissolve the Pectin
In a small saucepan, combine the contents of one box of Sure-Jell with ¾ cup water. Bring it to a full boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for exactly 1 minute, then remove from the heat.
4. Combine Pectin with Fruit
Quickly pour the hot pectin mixture into the bowl of fruit and sugar. Stir continuously for 3 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
5. Transfer to Containers
Spoon the jam into clean containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion in the freezer. Seal the lids tightly.
6. Set and Freeze
Let the containers sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the jam to thicken. After that, place them in the freezer. Store one in the refrigerator if you want to use it right away.
Tips for Best Results
-
Use the exact amount of sugar recommended. Reducing sugar without adjusting pectin may result in runny jam.
-
Don’t skip the boiling step for pectin it’s essential for activation.
-
Be sure your containers are clean and freezer-safe.
-
Allow the jam to rest the full 24 hours before freezing.
What Fruits Work Best with Sure-Jell?
Sure-Jell works with a variety of fruits. You can use
-
Strawberries
-
Raspberries
-
Blueberries
-
Blackberries
-
Peaches
-
Cherries
-
Apricots
Each fruit may require a slightly different ratio of sugar and fruit. Always refer to the instruction sheet inside the Sure-Jell box for fruit-specific recipes.
How to Use Freezer Jam
Freezer jam is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways
-
Spread on toast, biscuits, or bagels
-
Swirled into yogurt or oatmeal
-
Layered into cakes or desserts
-
Mixed into sauces or salad dressings
-
Used as a topping for pancakes or waffles
Because of its fresh flavor and soft texture, freezer jam is ideal for both breakfast and baking.
Storage and Shelf Life
Freezer jam lasts up to one year in the freezer. Once thawed and opened, it should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 3 weeks. To keep your jam tasting fresh
-
Always use clean utensils
-
Keep the container tightly sealed
-
Store in small containers to reduce waste
Label your containers with the date and fruit type so you can keep track of freshness.
Why Freezer Jam Is Perfect for Beginners
Traditional jam-making can be time-consuming and requires careful canning. Freezer jam skips those steps entirely. It’s great for
-
Busy families
-
New cooks
-
Kids helping in the kitchen
-
Anyone wanting fresh-tasting jam with little effort
There’s no special equipment needed, and cleanup is minimal.
Freezer Jam as a Homemade Gift
Freezer jam makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift. Pour the jam into small jars, add a ribbon, and attach a handwritten label. It’s perfect for
-
Birthdays
-
Holidays
-
Housewarming gifts
-
Thank-you presents
Your friends and family will love receiving something handmade and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Don’t reduce the sugar unless using a low-sugar pectin product.
-
Avoid over-processing the fruit it should be slightly chunky.
-
Don’t skip the stirring step after adding pectin; it ensures even mixing.
-
Make sure your containers are designed for freezing to avoid cracking.
Conclusion
Making freezer jam with Sure-Jell is one of the easiest and most rewarding kitchen projects you can try. It requires minimal ingredients, no special tools, and delivers delicious results every time. Whether you’re preserving summer strawberries or experimenting with peach or raspberry, this method makes homemade jam simple and satisfying. Try it once, and you may never go back to store-bought again.