Name: Instant Pot Strawberry Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Ingredients: 4 pints Strawberries (Fresh, washed, and hulled.); 2 cups Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and richness.); 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Provides acidity to balance sweetness.); 2 teaspoons Grand Marnier (Optional for added flavor.); 1 package Low-Sugar or No-Sugar Pectin (Essential for thickening.); 1 cup White Sugar (Enhances sweetness and helps set jam.)

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There’s something magical about making your own jam, and this Instant Pot Strawberry Jam is a delightful way to capture the sweet essence of strawberries right when they’re at their peak! I remember the first time I decided to make jam; it was a sunny spring day, and my kitchen smelled of fresh strawberries and sugar. The idea of preserving that flavor for the colder months ahead was thrilling, and the Instant Pot made the process not just simple but incredibly fast. No more standing over the stove for hours; everything you need is done in a fraction of the time! This recipe brings back those fond memories and fills my home with warmth every time I make it.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
16 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
6 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Instant Pot, Mixing Bowl

This Instant Pot Strawberry Jam is also a fantastic way to enjoy the bounty of spring. When strawberries are in season, they are bursting with flavor, and using them in this recipe allows you to make the most of their freshness. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about turning a handful of ingredients into sweet, spreadable goodness. Whether you’re slathering it on toast, dolloping it on yogurt, or using it as a filling for pastries, the versatility of this jam is truly remarkable. Making your own jam means you know exactly what goes into it, allowing you to avoid unwanted preservatives and artificial flavors. I always find myself smiling when I see a jar of my homemade jam sitting on the shelf, just waiting to be enjoyed.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create something special in your Instant Pot!

What You’ll Enjoy About This Instant Pot Strawberry Jam

Quick and Easy

One of the things I love most about this Instant Pot Strawberry Jam is how quickly it comes together. With the Instant Pot, you can have jam ready in less than an hour. Gone are the days of long cooking times and constant stirring. Instead, you can set it and forget it, allowing the Instant Pot to work its magic while you tend to other tasks.

Fresh Ingredients

This recipe highlights the beauty of fresh strawberries, ensuring you can enjoy the taste of spring all year long. You’ll need ripe strawberries, brown sugar, and a bit of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. These ingredients work harmoniously to create a jam that’s not only delicious but also rich in flavor.

Perfect for Gifting

Homemade jam makes for a thoughtful gift. Imagine gifting a jar of your Instant Pot Strawberry Jam to a friend or neighbor. It’s a personal touch that shows you care, and everyone loves receiving a delicious treat that they didn’t have to make themselves.

Versatile Uses

This jam isn’t just for breakfast! Use it in desserts, drizzled over ice cream or incorporated into cakes for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless, and that makes it so much fun to create.

Storage and Longevity

With this recipe, you can create multiple pints of jam to enjoy throughout the year. It can be refrigerated for weeks or even frozen for months, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries long after they’re out of season.

Main Ingredients for Instant Pot Strawberry Jam

The ingredients for this Instant Pot Strawberry Jam are both simple and essential. Each one plays a unique role in crafting the perfect jam. The star of the show is, of course, the strawberries, which provide the fresh, fruity flavor we all love. Brown sugar adds depth and richness, while lemon juice brings a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness beautifully. Together, these ingredients blend to create a deliciously sweet and tangy jam that’s perfect for spreading.

4 pints strawberries – Make sure they are fresh, washed, and hulled for the best flavor.
2 cups brown sugar – This adds a rich sweetness that complements the strawberries perfectly.
1/4 cup lemon juice – A splash of acidity to balance the sweetness of the jam.
2 teaspoons Grand Marnier (optional) – This adds a hint of orange flavor, but can be omitted for a simple jam.
1 package low-sugar or no-sugar pectin – Essential for helping the jam to set.
1 cup white sugar – This enhances sweetness and also aids in the setting process.

Making Instant Pot Strawberry Jam

Making Instant Pot Strawberry Jam is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious jam at home. You’ll be surprised at how easy and fun it is.

Start by preparing your strawberries. Rinse them thoroughly, remove the hulls, and slice them if they are large. You want them to be in bite-sized pieces so that they break down easily during cooking. Place the prepared strawberries in your Instant Pot along with 2 cups brown sugar and 1/4 cup lemon juice. If you’re using 2 teaspoons Grand Marnier, add that as well.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is sealed. Set your pot to manual high-pressure for 3 minutes. As it cooks, you’ll hear the pot working away, and the aroma of strawberries will begin to fill your kitchen.
Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to naturally release. This process takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After this time, carefully vent any remaining pressure, and open the lid. You’ll see that the strawberries have softened and released their juices.
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup white sugar and the package of pectin. This mixture will help thicken your jam.
Next, turn your Instant Pot to the saute setting. Stir the strawberry mixture to bring it up to a rolling boil. Keep stirring occasionally, watching as the mixture begins to thicken.
Once it reaches a rolling boil, stir in the sugar and pectin mixture. It’s important to stir constantly during this step to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom. You’ll notice the jam starting to take shape as it cooks for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Once it looks thick and glossy, it’s time to ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of each jar to allow for expansion. Cover the jars tightly.
Label and let them cool at room temperature. Once cooled, your Instant Pot Strawberry Jam can be refrigerated for up to 3 weeks or stored in the freezer for longer enjoyment. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for Freshness: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Overripe or mushy strawberries can alter the taste of your jam.
Consistency Control: If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the strawberry mixture before adding the pectin.
Storage Tips: Make sure to use sterilized jars to prevent spoilage. Properly sealed jars can be kept in the refrigerator or freezer.
Safety First: Always let the pressure release naturally to avoid burning yourself when opening the Instant Pot.

Making Adjustments

There are many ways to customize your Instant Pot Strawberry Jam. Here are some tips to help you adjust the recipe to your taste:

Storage: Your jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Just ensure that the jar is sealed properly.
Freezing: If you want to keep your jam longer, it can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
Reducing Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet jam, consider cutting back on the sugar by using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of white sugar.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding other fruits or spices, such as a touch of cinnamon or vanilla (without using artificial vanilla). Just remember that it may alter the consistency.
Serving Suggestions: This jam is perfect for breakfast, but can also be used in desserts or as a topping for ice cream.
Adjusting Thickness: If your jam doesn’t reach the desired thickness, simply return it to the pot and cook for a few more minutes.

Perfect Pairings for Instant Pot Strawberry Jam

When serving your Instant Pot Strawberry Jam, think about the delightful pairings that complement its flavors beautifully. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Toast or Bagels: Spread your jam generously on warm toast or bagels for a delightful breakfast.
Pancakes or Waffles: Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding a fruity twist to your morning routine.
Yogurt Parfaits: Layer the jam with yogurt and granola for a refreshing snack or breakfast option.
Cheesecake Topping: Drizzle over cheesecake for a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates the dessert.
Ice Cream Sundaes: Add a scoop of your favorite ice cream and top it with your homemade jam for a delicious treat.
Gifting: Dress up the jars with labels and ribbons for a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

FAQ

Homemade strawberry jam can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it, where it can last for up to 6 months. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers to preserve its freshness.

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries to make jam! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar. However, keep in mind that sugar also helps with the preservation and thickening of the jam, so it might alter the consistency and shelf life slightly.

Leftover jam can be used in many ways! Spread it on toast or bagels, use it as a filling for pastries, or drizzle it over desserts like ice cream or cheesecake for an added layer of flavor.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Strawberry Jam is a beautiful way to enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries year-round. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for breakfast or desserts. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade jam for yourself!