Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about making Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam. Every summer, without fail, my grandmother would gather ripe, juicy raspberries from her garden. The air would be filled with the sweet aroma of fresh fruit, and the sound of laughter filled the kitchen as we mashed berries and stirred in sugar. It felt like a magical transformation, watching those vibrant berries turn into a thick, luscious jam. This quick and easy recipe gives you that same joyful feeling without spending hours in the kitchen. There’s no need for long canning processes or complicated techniques—just fresh berries, sugar, and a little bit of pectin. By the end of our jam-making session, we would have jars full of sunshine ready to be spread on toast or dolloped on pancakes. Beyond just preserving fruit, this jam is a way to capture those fleeting summer moments, making every bite a taste of sunshine and love.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
15 mins
5 mins
Easy
50 kcal
0 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
0 g
Frying Pan, Blender, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon
What Makes This Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam Special
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam is the time it takes to prepare. You can have delicious homemade jam ready in no time! With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking, it’s perfect for those spontaneous summer gatherings or whenever you feel like indulging in something sweet.
Fresh, Quality Ingredients
This jam is all about the berries. Using fresh, ripe raspberries makes all the difference in flavor. The sweetness from the fruit combined with the sugar results in a bright, vibrant jam that reflects the essence of summer. Plus, using high-quality ingredients ensures that your jam will set perfectly each time.
Versatile and Fun
Not only is this jam a delight on toast, but it can also be used in various dessert recipes, from filling for cakes to topping for yogurt. It’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen. You can even mix it with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a unique twist!
Preserving Summer in a Jar
By making Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam, you’re not just creating a delicious treat; you’re also preserving the flavors of summer for months to come. Once you store it in the freezer, you’ll have a stash of jam to enjoy even in the colder months, bringing a taste of warmth whenever you crave it.
Perfect for Gifting
This jam also makes a charming gift for friends and family. Pack it in cute jars with a label, and you’ll have a thoughtful and personal present that’s sure to be appreciated. Homemade gifts always carry a special touch, and jam is no exception!
Healthier Option
Compared to many store-bought jams, this version gives you control over the sugar content. You can choose to use less sugar or even look for pectin options that allow for sugar substitutes if you want to create a healthier spread. Enjoy the sweet flavor of summer while keeping an eye on health!
Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam Shopping List
When it comes to making Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam, the ingredient list is straightforward but essential. Fresh ingredients create the best flavors, highlighting the vibrant nature of the raspberries. Each component works harmoniously to create that perfect sweet, spreadable delight. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups crushed ripe red raspberries (you will need about 6 cups whole raspberries to equal 3 cups crushed)
- 5¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup water
- 1 box (1.75-ounce) SURE-JELL Original Premium Fruit Pectin (in the yellow box)
Making Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam
Getting started with Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam is a breeze. With just a few steps, you’ll have homemade jam that’s perfect for spreading or gifting. Let’s dive into the process!
- Prepare the Raspberries: Start by washing your fresh raspberries under cold water. Once clean, place them in a large bowl. Using a rigid pastry blender or a potato masher, crush the berries until you have a mixture with mostly crushed fruit but still a few small bits. Aim for a total of 3 cups of crushed raspberries, so you may need to mash more than you expect. The aroma of fresh raspberries filling your kitchen is irresistible!
- Combine with Sugar: Measure out 5¼ cups of granulated sugar and add it directly to the bowl with the crushed raspberries. Stir gently to combine everything well. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes. You’ll notice the sugar starts to dissolve and create a syrupy liquid that brings out the natural sweetness of the berries.
- Create the Pectin Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup of water with the SURE-JELL Original Premium Fruit Pectin. Stir it well, as pectin can initially appear lumpy. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Let it boil for exactly 1 minute while continuing to stir. This is where the magic happens, as the pectin dissolves completely.
- Mix Everything Together: Once your pectin mixture is ready, remove it from the heat. Immediately pour the hot pectin mixture into your bowl of crushed raspberry and sugar. Stir this mixture constantly for about 3 minutes until you no longer feel any grainy sugar; it should feel smooth. Don’t worry if a few sugar crystals remain; they’ll dissolve as the jam sets.
- Fill Containers: Grab your freezer-safe containers, and using a ladle and a canning funnel, fill each one with the hot jam mixture. Remember to leave about a ½ inch of headspace at the top of each container—this allows room for the jam to expand while freezing. The vibrant color of your jam will look fantastic!
- Seal and Store: Once filled, take a damp paper towel and carefully wipe the rims of each container to ensure a good seal. Screw on the lids tightly. It’s crucial to let the filled containers stand at room temperature for 24 hours so the jam can set properly. After that, you can place them in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 1 year. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator before using!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use ripe berries: Perfectly ripe raspberries yield the best flavor and texture. Under-ripe or over-ripe fruit will affect the quality of your jam.
- Stir frequently: When combining the sugar and crushed raspberries, frequent stirring ensures even distribution and helps dissolve the sugar effectively.
- Use the right pectin: Always follow the instructions on the pectin box, as different brands may vary in their required quantities and methods.
- Headspace matters: Leaving enough headspace in your containers is crucial for expansion during freezing. Too little space can cause the lids to pop off!
How to Switch It Up
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some fun ways to switch up your Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam.
- Mix with other fruits: Consider adding strawberries or blueberries to your raspberry mix for a delightful blend of flavors.
- Experiment with spices: A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla can add a unique twist to your jam, giving it a warm, comforting flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you’d like a less sweet jam, you may use less sugar, but ensure you are using the right type of pectin for low-sugar recipes.
- Make it chunky: For a more textured jam, reserve some whole raspberries, and stir them in after the mixture is combined.
- Gift it: Package your jam in small jars with decorative labels to give as gifts. It’s a personal touch that anyone will appreciate.
How to Enjoy Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam
Serving your Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas:
- Spread on toast: A classic way to enjoy jam—slather it on warm toast or a buttered bagel for a satisfying breakfast.
- Pancake topping: Drizzle this vibrant jam over pancakes or waffles for a sweet and fruity breakfast treat.
- Yogurt parfaits: Layer your homemade jam in a parfait with yogurt and granola for a wholesome snack or breakfast option.
- Cheese pairing: Pair your jam with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a classy appetizer.
- Gifting: Perfect for special occasions, give jars of your homemade jam as gifts to friends and family. Everyone loves a personal touch!
- Seasonal desserts: Use the jam as a filling in cakes or pastries for a burst of flavor in your favorite desserts.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam captures the delicious taste of summer in every jar. Its simplicity and fresh flavors make it a must-try for any home cook. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot and enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor!
Quick Easy Raspberry Freezer Jam
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 1. Prepare the Raspberries: Start by washing your fresh raspberries under cold water. Once clean, place them in a large bowl. Using a rigid pastry blender or a potato masher, crush the berries until you have a mixture with mostly crushed fruit but still a few small bits. Aim for a total of 3 cups of crushed raspberries, so you may need to mash more than you expect. The aroma of fresh raspberries filling your kitchen is irresistible!
- 2. Combine with Sugar: Measure out 5¼ cups of granulated sugar and add it directly to the bowl with the crushed raspberries. Stir gently to combine everything well. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes. You’ll notice the sugar starts to dissolve and create a syrupy liquid that brings out the natural sweetness of the berries.
- 3. Create the Pectin Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup of water with the SURE-JELL Original Premium Fruit Pectin. Stir it well, as pectin can initially appear lumpy. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Let it boil for exactly 1 minute while continuing to stir. This is where the magic happens, as the pectin dissolves completely.
- 4. Mix Everything Together: Once your pectin mixture is ready, remove it from the heat. Immediately pour the hot pectin mixture into your bowl of crushed raspberry and sugar. Stir this mixture constantly for about 3 minutes until you no longer feel any grainy sugar; it should feel smooth. Don’t worry if a few sugar crystals remain; they’ll dissolve as the jam sets.
- 5. Fill Containers: Grab your freezer-safe containers, and using a ladle and a canning funnel, fill each one with the hot jam mixture. Remember to leave about a ½ inch of headspace at the top of each container—this allows room for the jam to expand while freezing. The vibrant color of your jam will look fantastic!
- 6. Seal and Store: Once filled, take a damp paper towel and carefully wipe the rims of each container to ensure a good seal. Screw on the lids tightly. It’s crucial to let the filled containers stand at room temperature for 24 hours so the jam can set properly. After that, you can place them in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 1 year. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator before using!
Notes
- Gather containers: Gather eight 1-cup to 2-cup size freezer-safe containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Use ripe fruit: Use perfectly ripe, sweet raspberries for the best flavor and set.
- Measure accurately: Measure ingredients exactly to avoid set failures.
- Don’t reduce sugar: This recipe calls for a lot of sugar, do not alter the amount.
- Storage: Store the jam in smaller containers that will be used up faster; keep one jar in the refrigerator and the rest in the freezer.
