Name: Raspberry Freezer Jam
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh raspberries; 5 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1 box Sure Jell Fruit Pectin; 3/4 cup water; 1 set A few clean glass or plastic jars with lids

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There’s something magical about homemade jam, and nothing quite captures that summer essence like Raspberry Freezer Jam. I remember my first attempt at making it; the kitchen was filled with the intoxicating aroma of fresh, ripe raspberries that I had just picked from the local farm. The sun was shining, and as I mashed those beautiful berries, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me, recalling summer days spent with my grandmother, who would always have a jar of her homemade jam ready for breakfast. It’s amazing how a simple fruit can evoke such warm memories.

Making Raspberry Freezer Jam is not just about preserving fruit; it’s about capturing a moment in time. As I stirred the mixture with granulated sugar, I could almost hear my grandmother’s laughter in the background, guiding me through her cherished recipe. This jam isn’t just a spread; it’s a celebration of summer, a burst of flavor that adds joy to every bite.

The best part is that this jam is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal equipment and ingredients. You don’t need any fancy cooking skills; just a desire to create something delicious. Whether you slather it on warm toast, use it in desserts, or even enjoy it by the spoonful straight from the jar, Raspberry Freezer Jam is bound to bring a smile to your face.

So, gather your ingredients and join me on this delightful journey of making your very own Raspberry Freezer Jam. It’s a perfect way to preserve those fleeting summer moments, and trust me, your future self will thank you every time you pop open a jar.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
50 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

What We Adore About This Raspberry Freezer Jam

Preserves the Essence of Summer

There’s nothing quite like the taste of summer, and Raspberry Freezer Jam captures that essence perfectly. Making jam is an act of preservation, allowing you to hold onto the vibrant flavors of raspberries long after the season has passed. Each jar is a little treasure chest of summer, ready to bring sunshine to your breakfast table.

Simple Ingredients, Amazing Flavor

With just a handful of ingredients—fresh raspberries, granulated sugar, pectin, and water—this recipe keeps things straightforward. You don’t need complex flavors or fancy techniques to create something wonderful. The pure taste of raspberries shines through, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Quick and Easy Process

One of the beauties of Raspberry Freezer Jam is how simple the process is. There’s no cooking involved, which means you can whip up a batch in no time. Just mash the berries, mix in the sugar and pectin, and you’re done! It’s the perfect recipe for those busy summer days when you want to make something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Great for Sharing

Homemade jam makes a thoughtful gift. Whether it’s for a neighbor, a friend, or a family member, sharing your Raspberry Freezer Jam is a wonderful way to spread joy. Imagine gifting a beautifully labeled jar filled with homemade goodness. It shows thoughtfulness and care, and who wouldn’t appreciate a delicious treat?

Versatile Uses

You can enjoy Raspberry Freezer Jam in countless ways! Spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, use it as a filling for pastries, or even incorporate it into salad dressings. The possibilities are endless, and it can easily elevate even the simplest dishes to something extraordinary.

Ingredient List for Raspberry Freezer Jam

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and Raspberry Freezer Jam is no exception. The key players in this recipe are simple yet impactful. Fresh, ripe raspberries bring sweetness and vibrant color, while granulated sugar enhances the natural flavors and helps with preservation. Pectin is essential for setting the jam, and a little water brings it all together. With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a delightful jam that’s perfect for any occasion.

6 cups fresh raspberries: Ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. These little berries are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a beautiful hue.
5 1/4 cups granulated sugar: This helps to balance the tartness of the raspberries and is crucial for the jam’s preservation.
1 box Sure Jell Fruit Pectin: This ingredient helps the jam set, giving it that perfect spreadable consistency.
3/4 cup water: Used to dissolve the pectin, creating the right consistency for your jam.
A few clean glass or plastic jars with lids: Essential for storing your homemade jam, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious.

Recipe Steps for Raspberry Freezer Jam

Making Raspberry Freezer Jam is a fun and simple process that anyone can master. All you need is a few basic steps to bring this delicious treat to life. Let’s dive in and follow these straightforward instructions to create your own batch of jam!

Start by selecting firm, ripe raspberries to ensure the best flavor. Avoid overripe berries, as they can lead to a jam that’s too soft and runny. The quality of your fruit is key to a successful jam.
Wash and rinse your glass or plastic containers. The number of jars you’ll need depends on their size, but typically this recipe makes around 7 to 8 cups of jam, filling about 4 pints.
In a large bowl, add the fresh raspberries and lightly mash them. Be careful not to over mash; you want them chunky, but not whole.
Measure out exactly 3 cups of the mashed raspberries and transfer them to a separate large bowl. If you have leftover mashed berries, don’t let them go to waste—freeze them for delicious smoothies or as toppings on pancakes!
Gradually stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar to the mashed berries. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Repeat this process, adding one cup of sugar at a time, until all granulated sugar (4 ¼ cups total) has been mixed in. Then, let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
In a small saucepan, combine the Sure Jell Fruit Pectin with ¾ cup water. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring often. It’s crucial to make sure it stays boiling even when stirred. Boil for one minute, stirring constantly, then remove from heat.
Pour the pectin mixture into the berries and sugar mixture. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved and no longer grainy. This step is essential for ensuring the right texture of your jam.
Now it’s time to pour the jam into your prepared containers. Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of each container to allow for expansion as it freezes. Cover them with lids.
Allow your jam to rest at room temperature for 24 hours before transferring it to the freezer. This resting period helps to ensure the jam sets properly.
Your Raspberry Freezer Jam will keep for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to one year. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the delightful taste of summer all year round!

Things Worth Knowing

Use ripe berries: Fresh, firm raspberries ensure the best flavor and prevent the jam from becoming too runny.
Stir continuously: When mixing pectin into the berries, continuous stirring helps dissolve the granulated sugar completely, giving you that perfect jam texture.
Storage: Store jam in a cool, dark place before opening. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks.
Freezing: If you’re freezing your jam, ensure you leave enough space in the jars for expansion—about 1/2 inch at the top!

How to Switch It Up

Looking to add a twist to your Raspberry Freezer Jam? There are so many fun ways to customize your jam experience! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Mix berries: Combine raspberries with other berries like strawberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
Infuse flavors: Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick or even a hint of mint for a refreshing touch.
Spicy twist: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes for a unique flavor experience.
Use as a topping: Instead of just spreading on toast, use your Raspberry Freezer Jam as a topping for cheesecake or ice cream for a delicious dessert upgrade.
Gift it: Put your jam in pretty jars and label them for gifts. Homemade jam is a personal and thoughtful present!

Serving Options for Raspberry Freezer Jam

There are so many delightful ways to serve Raspberry Freezer Jam that can elevate your meals and snacks. Here are some great serving options:

On Toast: Spread a generous layer of Raspberry Freezer Jam on your morning toast for a burst of flavor.
In Yogurt: Stir the jam into yogurt for a creamy, fruity treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
As a Dessert Topping: Use the jam as a topping for cheesecake, pancakes, or ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
In Smoothies: Add a spoonful of jam into smoothies for natural sweetness and a delightful berry flavor.
With Cheese: Pair the jam with your favorite cheese for a sweet and savory appetizer or snack.
For Gifts: Serve the jam in decorative jars as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, bringing a taste of summer to their tables.

FAQ

Once your Raspberry Freezer Jam is made, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you choose to freeze it, it will last for up to one year. Just make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of the jar when freezing, as the jam will expand.

While fresh raspberries are recommended for the best flavor, you can use frozen raspberries if necessary. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before mashing them. The texture might differ slightly, but the taste will still be delightful!

If your Raspberry Freezer Jam turns out runny, it could be due to using overripe raspberries or not dissolving the pectin properly. Make sure to follow the instructions closely and use firm, ripe berries for the best results.

Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits such as strawberries or blueberries to create a unique flavor blend. Just be mindful of the sugar content as different fruits have varying sweetness levels.

Conclusion

The beauty of Raspberry Freezer Jam lies in its simplicity and the way it brings the taste of summer into your home. Each jar is a delightful reminder of warm days and fresh-picked berries, perfect for spreading joy on toast or in desserts. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just about making jam, but about creating memories. So gather your ingredients, get those raspberries ready, and enjoy a sweet taste of summer whenever you please!