We’ve always loved the burst of fresh strawberry flavor that homemade jam brings to our tables, especially during those chilly months when summer feels far away. Our MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe captures that sweet essence with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy kitchens or first-time preservers.
What sets this jam apart is its simplicity—no fancy equipment or hours of boiling required. We’ll show you how MCP pectin helps lock in that vibrant taste, so you can enjoy spreads that taste just-picked and ready to enhance your toast, yogurt, or desserts.
Ingredients
Now that we’ve explored the simplicity of our MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients that bring out the vibrant, fresh flavor of strawberries while preserving them effortlessly.
- 4 cups crushed fresh strawberries: Start with about 2 quarts of whole, ripe strawberries. Wash, hull, and crush them finely to measure exactly 4 cups – this forms the base and ensures a smooth texture.
- 6 cups granulated sugar: Measure this amount precisely to balance the natural tartness of the strawberries and help the jam set properly.
- 1 box (1.75 ounces) MCP Pectin: Use this premium pectin powder as directed to achieve the perfect gel without long cooking times, retaining that fresh-picked taste.
- ¾ cup water: Add this to activate the pectin, ensuring even dissolution for a consistent jam consistency.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed from about 1 lemon, this provides the necessary acidity to enhance flavor and aid in setting the jam securely.
Required Equipment
To prepare our MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam efficiently, we keep things simple with everyday kitchen tools that ensure smooth preparation and proper storage. As we transition from gathering ingredients to assembling everything, these essentials help us maintain the fresh flavor and texture without any specialized gadgets.
We recommend the following equipment, listed in the order we use them during the process:
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to crush and combine the fresh strawberries with sugar, allowing for easy stirring and even distribution of flavors.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our recipe, so we rely on these to precisely measure 4 cups of crushed strawberries, 6 cups of granulated sugar, and other components for balanced results.
- Potato masher or food processor: This tool helps us quickly crush the strawberries to a smooth consistency, preserving their vibrant taste and ensuring the jam sets perfectly with MCP Pectin.
- Medium saucepan: We heat the pectin mixture in this to activate it, boiling the water and pectin together for the exact time needed to achieve the ideal set.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Essential for stirring the jam mixture thoroughly, we use it to blend ingredients without introducing air bubbles that could affect texture.
- Jars or freezer-safe containers: We select clean, airtight ones with lids to store the jam, ensuring it freezes well and retains its fresh strawberry essence for up to a year.
By using these straightforward items, we make our MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from beginners to seasoned preservers.
Instructions
We find making MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam incredibly simple and rewarding, as it lets us preserve the bright, juicy essence of fresh strawberries with minimal effort. Follow these steps to create a batch bursting with vibrant flavor and texture.
Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing 4 cups of fresh strawberries under cool water to remove any dirt, then hull them by removing the stems and leaves. Next, crush the strawberries using a potato masher or food processor until you achieve a smooth, slightly chunky texture—inhaling the sweet, tangy aroma that signals summer in every scoop.
Mix the Jam
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of crushed strawberries with 6 cups of granulated sugar, stirring vigorously to coat the fruit evenly and release its natural juices for a perfectly balanced sweetness. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 box of MCP pectin, ¾ cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Immediately pour the hot pectin mixture into the strawberry-sugar blend and stir for 3 minutes until fully incorporated, creating a glossy jam that promises a fresh, zesty burst on your taste buds.
Let the Jam Set
Allow the mixed jam to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to help the sugar dissolve completely and the mixture thicken naturally. This step ensures the jam develops its signature smooth, spreadable consistency, letting the flavors meld into a delightful harmony of sweetness and tartness.
Freeze the Jam
Once the jam has set, spoon it into clean, freezer-safe jars or containers, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top to accommodate expansion during freezing. Seal the containers tightly, label them with the date, and place them in the freezer where they can be stored for up to 1 year—ensuring we always have access to this homemade treat with its irresistible, sun-ripened taste.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To maximize the fresh flavor and convenience of our MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam, we recommend thoughtful make-ahead strategies and proper storage methods. This ensures the jam retains its vibrant color, sweet-tart taste, and spreadable texture for months, allowing us to enjoy homemade goodness whenever we crave it.
Make-Ahead Strategies
We can simplify our jam-making process by preparing certain elements in advance, especially for busy schedules. Start by washing and crushing the strawberries up to 24 hours ahead. Store the crushed fruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness, but avoid mixing it with sugar or pectin until you’re ready to proceed. This prevents the mixture from setting prematurely and maintains the jam’s bright, berry-fresh essence.
Here’s how we handle make-ahead prep:
- Crush strawberries early: Prepare 4 cups of crushed strawberries and refrigerate them for up to 1 day. Use a clean bowl covered with plastic wrap to minimize oxidation.
- Measure dry ingredients: Portion out 6 cups of granulated sugar and 1 box of MCP pectin in advance. Keep them in sealed bags or containers at room temperature to streamline assembly.
- Prep lemon juice: Squeeze and measure 2 tablespoons of lemon juice ahead, then store it in a small sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days to ensure it’s ready for adding that essential acidity.
By following these steps, we reduce active cooking time and make the recipe even more accessible for beginners or those preserving in batches.
Proper Storage Methods
Once our jam has set at room temperature, proper storage is key to preserving its vibrant red hue and bursting strawberry aroma. We always use freezer-safe containers to lock in flavor and extend shelf life, preventing any loss of quality over time.
For optimal results:
- Freezing the jam: Transfer the cooled jam into clean, freezer-safe jars or containers, leaving about ½ inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Seal tightly, label with the date, and freeze immediately. This method helps maintain the jam’s smooth, spreadable consistency for up to 1 year.
- Refrigeration for short-term use: If we plan to use the jam within a few weeks, store an opened jar in the refrigerator. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination, and consume within 3 weeks for the best taste and safety.
- Thawing guidelines: When ready to enjoy, thaw a frozen jar in the refrigerator overnight. This gentle process preserves the jam’s texture and prevents separation, ensuring it spreads easily on warm toast or blends seamlessly into yogurt.
To summarize storage durations clearly, we’ve compiled the key details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 1 year | Use airtight, freezer-safe containers; label and date for easy tracking. |
| Refrigerator (unopened) | Up to 3 months | Keep in a cool, dark spot; check for signs of spoilage before use. |
| Refrigerator (opened) | Up to 3 weeks | Always refrigerate after opening; stir if separation occurs. |
By adhering to these tips, we ensure our MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam stays delicious and safe, ready to enhance our meals year-round.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how simple it is to whip up MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam and enjoy its fresh burst all year.
This recipe lets us capture summer’s essence effortlessly, turning everyday ingredients into something truly special.
Let’s get jamming—your kitchen adventures await, and we’re confident you’ll savor every sweet spoonful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam?
MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam is a simple homemade preserve made from fresh strawberries, sugar, MCP pectin, water, and lemon juice. It’s designed for easy preparation without cooking, helping retain the fruit’s fresh flavor. Perfect for beginners, it’s great for spreading on toast, mixing into yogurt, or enhancing desserts, especially during off-season months.
How easy is the MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam recipe?
The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, requiring no special equipment or long cooking times. It involves crushing strawberries, mixing with sugar and pectin, and letting it set at room temperature. Total prep takes about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks who want fresh-tasting jam without hassle.
What ingredients are needed for MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam?
You’ll need 4 cups of crushed fresh strawberries, 6 cups of granulated sugar, 1 box of MCP pectin, ¾ cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. These simple ingredients ensure a balanced, flavorful jam; the lemon juice helps with setting and enhances taste.
What equipment is required to make MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam?
Basic kitchen tools suffice: a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a potato masher or food processor, a medium saucepan, a spatula or wooden spoon, and clean freezer-safe containers. This keeps preparation accessible and straightforward for everyone.
How do I prepare MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam step by step?
Start by washing and hulling strawberries, then crush them. Mix with sugar and set aside. Boil water with MCP pectin, add to the fruit mixture, and stir well. Let it sit at room temperature to thicken, then pour into containers and freeze. The whole process takes under an hour.
How should I store MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam?
Store in freezer-safe containers for up to a year, or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks after opening. Thaw in the fridge before use to maintain flavor and texture. Always use clean containers to prevent spoilage and keep the jam fresh.
Can I make MCP Strawberry Freezer Jam ahead of time?
Yes, prepare by crushing strawberries and measuring ingredients in advance to save time. The jam sets at room temperature and can be frozen immediately, allowing you to make it days or weeks ahead for convenient, year-round enjoyment.