Homemade Strawberry Jam with a Touch of Lemon

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Cuisine

American

Servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Calories

Strawberry Jam is one of those timeless kitchen staples that never fails to bring a touch of summer into any season. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can turn ripe strawberries into a vibrant, ruby-red spread that bursts with flavour. This version adds a citrusy twist with fresh lemon juice and zest, giving the jam a beautiful balance of sweetness and brightness.

There’s no need for commercial pectin — the natural pectin in the fruit, combined with a slow simmer, gives the perfect texture. The result is a homemade jam that feels both rustic and refined, perfect for gifting or elevating your everyday breakfast.

One of the most rewarding aspects of making your own jam is how easy it is to customise. You can mash the berries into a smooth consistency or leave some chunky bits for texture. Add a dash of vanilla for warmth or a pinch of spice like cinnamon for a cozy twist.

Whether you spread it on warm toast, spoon it into yogurt, swirl it into cake batter, or layer it in a jam tart, this strawberry jam brings a bright, summery note to any dish. And once you taste the difference of homemade, you may never go back to store-bought again.

Image of Homemade Strawberry Jam with a Touch of Lemon

Ingredients

2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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Directions

In a large saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to draw out the juices.
Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
As the mixture boils, use a potato masher or spoon to crush the strawberries to your desired consistency.
Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens. You can test it by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate — if it gels slightly and doesn't run, it’s ready.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilised jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal tightly.
Allow to cool at room temperature, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or process in a water bath for shelf stability.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
per serving: Calories; 48

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Fat: 0 grams; 0%
Saturated Fat: 0 grams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams; 0%
Sodium: 0 milligrams; 0%
Carbs: 12 grams; 4%
Protein: 0 grams
Sugar: 11 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams; 2%

Tips for Cooking Strawberry Jam

Use the ripest strawberries you can find for the best flavour.
Let the berries macerate in sugar before cooking to draw out juices.
Add lemon zest for depth and brightness.
Stir frequently to avoid scorching and ensure even thickening.
Use a wide, shallow pan to speed up evaporation and reduce cook time.
Test doneness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate and checking for gel.
Add vanilla extract after removing from heat to preserve its aroma.
Sterilise jars properly to extend shelf life if storing long-term.
If freezing, leave space at the top of jars for expansion.
Store open jars in the fridge and use within 3 weeks for best taste.

Serve It With Suggestions

Warm buttered toast or English muffins
Swirled into oatmeal or yogurt
As a filling for thumbprint cookies
Spread on pancakes, waffles, or crepes
Dolloped over cheesecake or panna cotta
Stirred into sparkling water for a fruity spritz
Sandwiched in a PB&J
Baked into puff pastry turnovers
Layered into cakes or trifles
Paired with a cheese board, especially brie or goat cheese

FAQ's

Q: Do I need pectin to make this jam?
A: No, this recipe uses the natural pectin in strawberries and lemon to thicken the jam.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, just thaw and drain them before starting the recipe.

Q: How long does homemade jam last?
A: If stored in the fridge, it will last about 3 weeks. Canned, it can last up to a year.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: You can reduce it slightly, but the sugar helps preserve the jam and affects texture.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for water bath canning?
A: Yes! Just be sure to sterilise your jars and process for 10 minutes.

Q: Why add lemon juice?
A: It helps balance sweetness, provides acidity for safe preservation, and enhances gelling.

Q: Can I make this without lemon zest?
A: Yes, but zest adds a lovely depth of flavor. It’s recommended, but not essential.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: It’s best to make small batches for better consistency, but you can double if using a wide pan.

Q: What if my jam is too runny?
A: Simmer a bit longer until it thickens, or reheat the next day to adjust.

Q: Can I freeze the jam?
A: Yes! Store in freezer-safe containers and leave 1/2 inch headspace.

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Homemade Strawberry Jam with a Touch of Lemon