We absolutely love strawberry rhubarb freezer jam for its burst of fresh, tangy sweetness that screams summer in a jar. This simple twist on a timeless preserve combines juicy strawberries with the tart zing of rhubarb, creating a spread that’s perfect for toast, yogurt or even desserts.
Originating from old-school farm kitchens, we’ve adapted this easy recipe to skip the fuss of canning while locking in that vibrant flavor. It’s our go-to way to savor seasonal produce year-round, and we’re confident you’ll find it just as irresistible.
Ingredients
In our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam recipe, we begin with the freshest, seasonal produce to capture the vibrant, tangy flavors that make this preserve so irresistible. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
- Strawberries: 4 cups, freshly hulled and chopped into small pieces to release their sweet juices and blend seamlessly with the rhubarb.
- Rhubarb stalks: 2 cups, trimmed and diced into ½-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and a perfect tart contrast to the strawberries.
- Granulated sugar: 4 cups, added next to draw out the natural pectin and enhance the jam’s glossy texture.
- Pectin: 1 package (1.75 ounces) of powdered fruit pectin, dissolved as directed to achieve the ideal set without traditional canning.
- Lemon juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed from about 2 lemons to boost acidity, preserve color, and intensify the bright, zesty notes of our freezer jam.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam, let’s gather the essential tools that make the process straightforward and safe. These items ensure we handle the fresh ingredients efficiently and achieve that vibrant, glossy preserve.
- Large pot: We use this to cook the strawberry and rhubarb mixture to a rolling boil, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our 4 cups of strawberries, 2 cups of rhubarb, and other ingredients, so we rely on these for precision.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining and crushing the fresh strawberries and rhubarb before heating.
- Potato masher or blender: This helps us achieve the smooth texture by mashing the fruit, enhancing the jam’s fresh and tangy appeal.
- Jars or freezer-safe containers: We need clean, sterilized ones with lids to store our jam safely in the freezer, preserving its seasonal flavors for months.
- Ladle: For transferring the hot jam mixture into containers without mess, ensuring even distribution.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for hulling and dicing the strawberries and rhubarb, preparing them just right for our recipe.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we’ll walk you through the straightforward steps to create our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam. This process preserves the vibrant, tangy flavors of seasonal produce for year-round enjoyment.
Prepare the Fruits
First, we wash 4 cups of strawberries under cool running water to remove any dirt, then hull and chop them into small pieces for even texture. Next, we rinse 2 cups of rhubarb stalks thoroughly, trim the ends, and dice them into ½-inch pieces to release their tart, juicy essence that perfectly balances the sweetness of the berries. As we combine these in a large mixing bowl, the bright red strawberries and crisp green rhubarb create a visually stunning mixture that hints at the fresh, summery taste ahead, ensuring our jam base is ready for the next stage.
Make the Jam Mixture
We start by adding the prepared strawberries and rhubarb to a large pot, then stir in 4 cups of granulated sugar to draw out the natural juices and create a glossy syrup. Once mixed, we incorporate 1 package of powdered fruit pectin and ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring vigorously over medium heat until the mixture reaches a full boil—typically 1 to 2 minutes—to activate the pectin and achieve a thick, spreadable consistency. As the pot simmers, the aromatic blend of sweet and tart notes fills the air, transforming the fruits into a vibrant, flavorful jam that captures the essence of ripe, sun-kissed produce for a perfectly balanced taste.
Fill and Freeze the Jars
We carefully ladle the hot jam mixture into clean, sterilized jars or freezer-safe containers, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. After wiping the rims to ensure a proper seal, we cover the jars tightly and let them cool at room temperature for 24 hours until the jam sets to a smooth, spoonable texture. Finally, we label the jars with the date and transfer them to the freezer, where they can be stored for up to 12 months, preserving the fresh, tangy burst of strawberries and rhubarb for effortless enjoyment whenever we crave it.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As we wrap up our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam recipe, let’s explore how we can prepare it in advance and store it properly to preserve its vibrant, tangy flavors for months. This ensures our jam retains its fresh burst of strawberries and rhubarb, ready to enhance toasts, yogurt, or desserts whenever we need it.
Make-Ahead Strategies
We can simplify our jam-making process by preparing components ahead of time, allowing us to capture seasonal produce at its peak and enjoy homemade goodness year-round. Here’s how we do it step-by-step:
- Prepare the Fruit Mixture in Advance: First, wash, hull, and chop the strawberries and rhubarb as outlined in our recipe. Combine them in a bowl with the sugar and lemon juice, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This lets the fruits release their natural juices, intensifying the fresh, tangy sweetness that defines our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam.
- Cook and Cool Batches: If we’re making large quantities, we can cook the full mixture in advance. After boiling and thickening the jam, let it cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving ½ inch of headspace for expansion, then freeze immediately to lock in the vibrant red hue and glossy texture.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam, preventing spoilage and preserving its sensory appeal. We recommend using clean, airtight jars or containers to keep the jam’s bright flavors and smooth consistency intact.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 12 months | Freeze the jam in freezer-safe jars or bags to retain its fresh taste and texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results, ensuring a renewed burst of summer flavor without compromising safety. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 weeks after opening | Once thawed, store opened jam in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination, preserving the jam’s tart rhubarb notes and sweet strawberry essence. |
| Room Temperature | Not recommended for long-term | If the jam is unopened and properly sealed, it can sit at room temperature for up to 1 day before freezing, but we advise immediate freezing for optimal freshness. |
Additional Tips for Success
To ensure our strawberry rhubarb freezer jam stays at its best, we always label containers with the date and contents using a waterproof marker—this helps us track freshness and avoid waste. If we notice any signs of spoilage like off odors or mold, discard it immediately to maintain food safety. By following these steps, we maximize the versatile, seasonal delight of our jam for effortless enjoyment anytime.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this strawberry rhubarb freezer jam as a simple way to savor seasonal delights all year. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s our go-to method for capturing nature’s vibrant essence in every spoonful.
By trying it you’ll discover how easy preserving can be and add a touch of homemade magic to your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is strawberry rhubarb freezer jam?
Strawberry rhubarb freezer jam is a simple, fresh preserve that combines the sweet tang of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. It’s a modern take on traditional canning, made without heat processing, allowing you to enjoy summer flavors year-round. This versatile spread works great on toast, in desserts, or as a topping, capturing the essence of seasonal produce in a quick, easy recipe.
What ingredients are needed for strawberry rhubarb freezer jam?
You’ll need fresh, seasonal ingredients like 4 cups of hulled and chopped strawberries, 2 cups of diced rhubarb, 4 cups of granulated sugar, 1 package of powdered fruit pectin, and ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. These create a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring a vibrant, flavorful jam that highlights the best of summer fruits.
What equipment is required to make strawberry rhubarb freezer jam?
Essential tools include a large pot for cooking the mixture, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a mixing bowl, a potato masher or blender for texture, clean sterilized jars or freezer containers, a ladle for filling, and a knife with a cutting board for prep. These items make the process straightforward and safe for preserving fresh flavors.
How do I make strawberry rhubarb freezer jam?
Start by washing, hulling, and chopping strawberries, then rinsing and dicing rhubarb. Combine in a pot with sugar, pectin, and lemon juice, and cook until it reaches a full boil. Stir to thicken, then ladle into sterilized jars. Cool and freeze for up to 12 months. This method simplifies traditional canning while locking in that fresh, tangy taste.
How long can strawberry rhubarb freezer jam be stored?
Frozen jam lasts up to 12 months for optimal freshness. Once thawed, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. At room temperature, it should be consumed within a day. Always use airtight containers and label with dates to maintain quality and safety.
Can I make strawberry rhubarb freezer jam ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the fruit mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to enhance flavors. For larger batches, cook and cool the jam, then freeze immediately. This allows you to enjoy it year-round without rush, making it perfect for seasonal preserving.
What tips ensure the best strawberry rhubarb freezer jam?
Use the freshest seasonal produce for vibrant flavors, measure ingredients accurately, and stir constantly while cooking to avoid scorching. Test for thickness before jarring, and always sterilize containers. For extra sweetness, let the mixture sit refrigerated overnight before cooking. Proper labeling helps track freshness for long-term enjoyment.