Homemade Strawberry Jam (Fresh, Bright & Naturally Sweet)

There is something special about homemade strawberry jam. The color is brighter. The flavor is fresher. And it actually tastes like strawberries — not just sugar.

This recipe keeps things simple: fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. That’s it. No pectin. No complicated steps. Just real ingredients turning into something you’ll want to put on everything.

Whether you’re spreading it on toast, layering it into yogurt, or adding it to desserts, this is one of those recipes that feels nostalgic but tastes even better homemade.

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Jam

• Made with only 4 ingredients
• No pectin needed
• Naturally thickens as it cooks
• Bright, fresh strawberry flavor
• Perfect for gifting or keeping all to yourself

It’s simple, classic, and truly from scratch.

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Ingredient Notes

• Fresh strawberries: Use ripe, fragrant berries for best flavor
• Sugar: Sweetens and helps preserve the jam
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps set the jam
• Lemon zest: Enhances the fresh strawberry flavor

This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes Strawberry Jam

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How to Make Homemade Strawberry Jam

1. Prep the Strawberries

Wash and dry the strawberries. Remove the stems using a paring knife or strawberry huller.

I like this huller from Amazon

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2. Let Them Release Their Juices

Add strawberries and sugar to a pot. Let sit for 20–30 minutes so the strawberries naturally release their juices.

This step helps build flavor before you even turn on the heat.

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3. Mash to Your Desired Texture

Use a potato masher or fork to mash the strawberries. You can leave it chunky or mash it smooth — totally up to you.

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4. Cook the Jam

Add lemon juice and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer.

Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by about half and thickens.

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5. Finish with Lemon Zest

Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon zest for a bright finish.

Let cool slightly before transferring to jars.

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How to Know When It’s Done

• The jam should coat the back of a spoon
• It will continue thickening as it cools
• For a thicker consistency, simmer a few minutes longer

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Storage Tips

• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 1–2 months
• Can properly for long-term shelf storage
• Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination

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Sweetener Variations

If you prefer alternatives, this recipe works well with:

• Palm sugar
• Monkfruit sweetener

Keep in mind, sugar also helps with preservation and texture.

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Ways to Use Strawberry Jam

• On toast or English muffins
• Swirled into yogurt
• As a cake filling
• In thumbprint cookies
• Over pancakes or waffles
• With homemade cream cheese

This is one of those recipes that makes breakfast feel a little more special.

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Homemade Strawberry Jam

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Rest Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2 jars

Ingredients

• 2 lb fresh strawberries (washed and stems removed)
• ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Zest of ½ lemon

Instructions

1. Wash and dry strawberries. Remove stems.
2. Add strawberries and sugar to a pot. Let sit 20–30 minutes.
3. Mash to desired consistency.
4. Add lemon juice and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer.
5. Cook 20–25 minutes until reduced by half.
6. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest.
7. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 months.