Homemade Strawberry Jam (3 Ingredients, Small Batch)
This homemade strawberry jam is wonderfully simple, made with just three basic ingredients and no special equipment. It has a fresh fruit flavor, a glossy texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness and brightness. Ideal for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or spooning over pancakes, this small-batch jam is easy enough for beginners and delicious enough to make again and again.
Unlike store-bought jam, this version contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients. The strawberries release their natural juices as they cook, creating a thick, spoonable jam with a vibrant red color and real fruit taste.
Ingredients
- 1 kg fresh strawberries, hulled
- 4 cups caster sugar
- 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Kitchen Equipment
- Large heavy-based saucepan
- Potato masher or fork
- Wooden spoon
- Clean glass jars with lids
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the green tops, and place them in a large bowl. Lightly crush them using a potato masher or fork, leaving some small chunks for texture.
- Transfer the crushed strawberries to a heavy-based saucepan. Add the sugar and lemon juice, then stir well to combine.
- Place the saucepan over low heat and stir gently until the sugar has completely dissolved. This step is important to prevent crystallization later.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil. Continue boiling, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens and reaches a temperature of about 105°C. This usually takes 15–25 minutes.
- To test doneness, spoon a small amount onto a chilled plate and let it sit for a few seconds. If it wrinkles slightly when pushed with your finger, the jam is ready.
- Carefully pour the hot jam into clean, hot jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Seal tightly with lids.
- Let the jars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
Storage Tips
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks
- For longer storage, process sealed jars in a hot water bath
- Always use a clean spoon to maintain freshness
Serving Ideas
- Spread on toast, croissants, or warm biscuits
- Use as a filling for cakes, cookies, or thumbprint biscuits
- Stir into plain yogurt or oatmeal
- Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or crepes