We’ve always adored the vibrant flavors of homemade jams, and our Strawberry Banana Jam Recipe offers a fresh twist on a classic favorite. By blending juicy strawberries with creamy bananas, we create a naturally sweet spread that’s bursting with tropical goodness and easy to whip up in your own kitchen.
This delightful jam isn’t just tasty; it’s versatile for everything from toast to desserts. We’re excited to share how simple ingredients can elevate your pantry staples, making every bite a memorable one.
Ingredients
In our Strawberry Banana Jam Recipe, we select simple, high-quality ingredients that blend the natural sweetness of strawberries and bananas for a vibrant, homemade spread. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped—choose ripe, red ones for maximum flavor and natural pectin.
- 3 medium ripe bananas, peeled and mashed—opt for bananas with brown spots for their sweet, creamy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar—this helps achieve the perfect set and enhances the fruit’s inherent sweetness without overpowering it.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice—squeezed from about one lemon, it adds acidity to balance flavors and aid in preservation.
- 1 teaspoon pectin (optional)—if you prefer a firmer jam, use this natural thickener sparingly for those who want a store-bought texture at home.
These ingredients not only make our recipe straightforward but also ensure a delightfully tart and tropical jam that’s perfect for everyday use.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Strawberry Banana Jam Recipe to life smoothly and safely, we rely on essential tools that streamline the process from mashing fruits to preserving the final product. This ensures our jam achieves the perfect vibrant spread with minimal hassle, building directly on the fresh ingredients like strawberries and bananas we’ve already discussed.
Here’s a detailed list of the key equipment we’ll use:
- Large saucepan or pot: A heavy-bottomed one with at least 4-quart capacity for even heating and preventing scorching while cooking the fruit mixture.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring the jam as it simmers, helping us maintain the natural sweetness without damaging non-stick surfaces.
- Blender or potato masher: We recommend a blender for a smoother texture or a masher for chunkier bits, allowing us to blend the strawberries and bananas effectively.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate sets for precise measurements of ingredients like 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Canning jars and lids: Heat-resistant glass jars (around 8-ounce size) with airtight lids for storing and preserving the jam, keeping it fresh for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or longer if canned properly.
- Funnel and ladle: A wide-mouth funnel paired with a ladle for easy, mess-free transfer of the hot jam into jars, minimizing waste and ensuring safety.
| Equipment Item | Quantity Recommended | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Large saucepan or pot | 1 | Cooking the jam mixture evenly |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | 1-2 | Stirring and mixing ingredients |
| Blender or potato masher | 1 | Mashing or blending fruits |
| Measuring cups and spoons | 1 set | Ensuring precise ingredient amounts |
| Canning jars and lids | 4-6 jars | Storing and preserving the jam |
| Funnel and ladle | 1 of each | Filling jars cleanly |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and essential equipment, we walk you through the simple steps to craft our vibrant Strawberry Banana Jam. Let’s transform these ingredients into a sweet, tangy spread bursting with tropical flavors.
Prep
Before cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure even mixing and optimal texture. Start by washing 2 cups of fresh strawberries under cold water, then hull and slice them into quarter-inch pieces for easy mashing. Next, peel and mash 3 medium ripe bananas using a blender or potato masher until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency that will blend seamlessly with the strawberries’ tartness. Measure out 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and if desired, 1 teaspoon of pectin to enhance the jam’s firmness. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas and sliced strawberries, stirring gently with a wooden spoon to mix without breaking down the fruits too much—this step sets the stage for a jam with vivid red hues and a naturally sweet aroma that promises a delightful taste.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to cooking the jam in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the strawberry-banana mixture, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin (if using) to the pot, then stir continuously with a wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar and prevent sticking as the mixture heats up. Bring it to a rolling boil, reducing heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer for about 15-20 minutes—stir every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking and to release the fruits’ essence, creating a thick, glossy jam with a bright red color and irresistible fruity scent. To test for doneness, drop a small amount onto a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, our Strawberry Banana Jam is ready, offering a perfect balance of strawberry tartness and banana sweetness that will elevate your breakfast routine.
Store
Once cooked, we store the jam properly to preserve its fresh flavor and extend its shelf life. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized, heat-resistant canning jars using a funnel, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion. Wipe the jar rims clean, then seal tightly with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if canning for long-term storage—or simply let the jars cool to room temperature and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Always label your jars with the date, and store in a cool, dark place to maintain the jam’s vibrant taste and texture, ensuring every spoonful of our Strawberry Banana Jam remains as delicious as the day you made it.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve followed along with our strawberry banana jam adventure. It’s a rewarding way to elevate simple meals and create lasting memories in the kitchen. Trust us, once you’ve tried it, you’ll find endless ways to savor its fresh twist. Let’s keep the homemade goodness coming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the Strawberry Banana Jam Recipe?
The key ingredients include 2 cups of fresh strawberries, 3 medium ripe bananas, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and optionally, 1 teaspoon of pectin. These simple, high-quality items create a naturally sweet, tart, and tropical spread that’s easy to prepare at home.
How do you make Strawberry Banana Jam?
Start by washing and slicing strawberries, then mash the bananas. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, cook over medium heat while stirring continuously, bring to a boil, and simmer until thickened. Pour into sterilized jars for storage. The whole process is straightforward and takes about 30-45 minutes.
What equipment is required to make this jam?
You’ll need a large saucepan for cooking, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, a blender or potato masher for mashing fruits, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and heat-resistant canning jars with a funnel for safe storage. This basic setup ensures a smooth jam-making experience.
How should I store the Strawberry Banana Jam?
Store freshly made jam in sterilized jars. For short-term use, refrigerate for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer preservation, process jars in a water bath for canning, allowing it to last up to a year. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming to maintain safety and flavor.
Can I make this jam without pectin?
Yes, you can omit pectin for a softer texture, as the natural pectin in fruits like strawberries and bananas may suffice. However, it might not set as firmly. Adjust cooking time to achieve your desired consistency, and test by cooling a small amount on a plate. Experiment based on preference.