Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam – No Cook, Fresh Taste

Time to read:16 minutes

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam – What Makes It Special?

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam is more than just a recipe—it’s like capturing summer sunshine in a jar. Imagine opening your freezer in the middle of winter and spreading sweet, bright strawberry jam on warm toast. With this no-cook method, you skip the boiling pots and tricky canning steps. All you need are fresh berries, sugar, and pectin to make a homemade jam that’s bursting with color and flavor.

This jam is perfect for beginners, busy families, or anyone who wants a fresh homemade spread without complicated steps. Using Sure-Jell makes the process simple and reliable every time.

Let’s explore what makes Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam so unique.

What Is Freezer Jam?

Freezer jam is a type of fruit preserve that doesn’t need to be cooked. Instead of boiling the fruit, you just mash it, mix in sugar and pectin, and then freeze it.

No Cooking, Just Mixing

• Less time in the kitchen
• No stove or heat needed
• Easy cleanup

This method is also safer because it avoids pressure canning or sterilizing jars. It’s perfect for anyone who wants results fast.

Why Freezer Jam Tastes Fresher

Since there’s no cooking, the strawberries keep their natural glow, just like freshly picked fruit from a summer garden. That’s why Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam has a taste so vivid—it’s like biting into ripe berries straight from the patch.

You’ll notice:

• A lighter, softer texture
• A strong strawberry aroma
• A fresher flavor

Texture and Flavor Differences

Cooked jam is thicker and more gelatinous. It often has a darker color. With freezer jam, the texture is softer and spoonable, making it ideal for toast, waffles, and desserts.

Freezer vs Cooked Jam at a Glance

How Long It Lasts

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam lasts up to a year in the freezer. Once opened and thawed, keep it in the fridge and use it within three weeks. That’s plenty of time to enjoy the taste of strawberries every morning.

How to Store It Properly

• Use clean, freezer-safe plastic containers
• Leave room at the top for expansion
• Label with date for easy tracking

Freezer jam doesn’t need boiling water baths or sealed jars. Just mix, pour, and freeze. Done!

The History of Sure-Jell

Sure-Jell was first introduced in the early 20th century and is now made by Kraft Heinz. It helped simplify jam-making and became a kitchen staple in homes across America.

Before Sure-Jell, making jam was time-consuming. This product changed that by offering a reliable gelling solution that anyone could use.

Freezer Jam’s Popularity

When freezers became common in homes, freezer jam gained popularity. People discovered that they could make fresh jam in minutes with Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam — no stove required.

Even now, this method is loved for how easy it is to customize. Want it low-sugar? Want to add herbs or blend fruits? Freezer jam makes it easy to try.

If you’re exploring sugar alternatives, take a look at our Sugar-Free Lemon Cake. The same ingredient swaps can work for jam too!

For food safety and shelf-life guidance, visit the National Center for Home Food Preservation’s “How Long Can I Store Frozen Foods” page.

What You Need to Make Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam

Making this jam is easy, but you’ll need to measure everything carefully. A small mistake can affect how the jam sets.

Tools You’ll Need

• 2 large mixing bowls
• Potato masher or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Freezer-safe plastic containers
• Spoon or ladle

Ingredients List

Why Precision Is So Important

• Sugar levels affect the jam’s ability to set
• Too much fruit juice can make it too soft
• Stirring times are critical — follow them exactly

Once you mix the pectin and sugar into the berries, you need to move fast. Pour it into containers quickly before it thickens.

Ingredients (with Exact Ratios)

Making Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam at home is easier than you think. The results are always delicious if you follow the right steps. You only need a few fresh ingredients to get started.

Here’s what you’ll need for a perfect batch of Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam:

• 2 cups crushed strawberries
• 4 cups sugar
• ¾ cup water
• 1 box Sure-Jell (original or low-sugar, both work well)

These ratios are foolproof and have been tested for decades to guarantee perfect Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam. Think of sugar here as a preservative and flavor booster—it’s what keeps the jam smooth and spreadable. Cutting it back might seem tempting, but it can leave you with a runny, disappointing jar.

You can also check the official Sure-Jell recipe instructions for variations, especially if you’re using low-sugar pectin.

Here’s a quick ingredient table for your reference:

Crush and Prepare Strawberries

Start with fresh strawberries. Rinse them well and remove all the stems. Crush them gently with a potato masher or fork. You need 2 cups of fully crushed fruit, not chunks. This helps the Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam set evenly.

Tip: Avoid using a blender. It may make the fruit too smooth and affect texture.

Mix Sugar and Strawberries

In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of sugar with the 2 cups of crushed strawberries. Stir for 3 to 4 minutes. This step is key for successful Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam. Let the mixture sit while you prepare the pectin.

Make sure the sugar fully dissolves in the fruit. Do not heat this mixture. It must stay cool until pectin is added.

Boil the Sure-Jell Pectin

In a small saucepan, pour ¾ cup water and add the full box of Sure-Jell. Stir constantly over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil and keep stirring.

Let it boil hard for 1 full minute while stirring non-stop.

This is an essential step in making Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam. The heat activates the pectin, which helps the jam thicken without cooking the fruit itself.

Combine Fruit and Boiled Pectin

Immediately pour the hot pectin into your strawberry-sugar mixture. Stir quickly and thoroughly for 3 minutes until everything is blended well.

The jam will begin to thicken slightly. That’s normal. You’ll see the transformation begin right away. Keep stirring until no sugar granules remain.

This is when your Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam starts to come together.

Fill Jars and Label

Pour the jam into clean containers. Leave about half an inch of space at the top. This allows the jam to expand as it freezes.

Seal tightly with lids. Let the filled jars sit at room temperature for 24 hours. Then, move them to the freezer.

You can store Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam in the freezer for up to 1 year. Once opened, keep it in the fridge and consume within 3 weeks.

Use a permanent marker to label the date and type. This makes your freezer jam storage neat and organized.

Storage Tips

1. Keep in airtight containers
2. Freeze for up to 12 months
3. Refrigerate once opened
4. Do not re-freeze after thawing

Making Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam allows you to enjoy summer strawberries all year. It’s easy, safe, and has no preservatives.

Why This Jam is Different

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam keeps the fresh flavor of the fruit. There is no cooking involved, which means you preserve the bright red color and natural sweetness.

Compared to traditional jams, this version is:

• Faster to make
• Fresher in taste
• Easier for beginners

Plus, you don’t need fancy equipment. Just a saucepan, spoon, and jars.

Bonus Tips for Jam Success

To make your Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam turn out great every time:

• Use only ripe, fresh strawberries
• Don’t skip the boiling step for pectin
• Follow the sugar ratio exactly
• Stir well to remove all sugar crystals
• Label and date your jars properly

This no-cook method is ideal for busy home cooks and families. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam never fails to impress. It’s a timeless homemade recipe that brings joy with every spoonful.

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam – No Cook, Fresh Taste

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

This Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam is the easiest way to lock in the fresh taste of summer strawberries. With just four ingredients—berries, sugar, water, and pectin—you’ll have a sweet, vibrant jam ready in minutes. No boiling, no canning, just simple homemade goodness.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: ~5 cups (about 5 half-pint jars)

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups crushed fresh strawberries

• 4 cups granulated sugar

• ¾ cup water

• 1 box Sure-Jell fruit pectin (1.75 oz, original or low-sugar)

Instructions

• Wash, hull, and crush strawberries until you get 2 cups of pulp.

• In a bowl, mix crushed strawberries with sugar. Stir for 3–4 minutes until well blended.

• In a saucepan, combine pectin with water. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and let boil for 1 minute.

• Quickly pour hot pectin into the strawberry-sugar mixture. Stir for 3 minutes until fully dissolved.

• Ladle into clean freezer-safe containers, leaving ½ inch headspace.

• Seal, label, and let stand at room temperature for 24 hours.

• Freeze for up to 12 months, or refrigerate and use within 3 weeks after opening.

Notes

• Do not reduce sugar (affects setting).

• Avoid blender purée for better jam texture.

• Low-sugar version available with pink Sure-Jell box.

• Author: James Carter
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Preserves, Spreads
• Method: No-Cook, Freezer
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20 g)
• Calories: ~50
• Sugar: ~12 g
• Sodium: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: ~13 g
• Fiber: <1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam, strawberry jam, no cook jam, freezer jam

For quick answers to common canning questions—about sterilizing jars, proper headspace, or storage times—visit the NCHFP’s General Canning FAQs, a science-backed resource maintained by the University of Georgia.

Troubleshooting & Variations

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam too runny?f your jam is too soft,

Is your Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam looking more like strawberry syrup? Don’t panic—this happens even to seasoned jam makers. Often, the jam just needs a little extra resting time in the fridge. If it’s still too soft after 24 hours, give it a good stir. Worst case? You can re-batch it with a little more pectin and still save the day.

Quick tips:

• Use exact measurements
• Stir for at least 3 full minutes
• Don’t pour into jars too soon

Accuracy matters. Even slight changes in sugar or fruit ratios can affect the texture.

Too sweet?

By default, Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam uses lots of sugar. It helps it set well, but the taste might be too sweet for some. If you prefer a cooked version that balances sweetness differently, check out our Sure Jell Strawberry Jam Recipe for a step-by-step guide.

Use Sure Jell for Less or No Sugar Needed Recipes instead. It gives flexibility. You can reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners like stevia or honey.

Need a dessert that skips refined sugar entirely? Try our Date Brownie Balls — they’re naturally sweet and make a great pairing with homemade jam.

Sugar crystals or gritty texture?

Sugar crystals mean it wasn’t stirred long enough. Stirring activates the pectin and fully dissolves sugar. Set a timer for 3 minutes and stir constantly.

Also:

• Don’t wait to pour into containers
• Keep stirring even if your arm gets tired
• Seal jars right after pouring

This helps preserve the smooth finish of your Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam.

Want a low-sugar option?

Use the pink box: Sure Jell for Less or No Sugar Needed Recipes. It works well even with much less sugar. Here’s a common mix:

• 4 cups mashed strawberries
• 1 box low/no sugar Sure Jell
• 2 cups sugar (or alternative)

You get the same great fruit flavor with less sugar.

Pair it with our Cottage Cheese Fudge Bars for a balanced dessert with protein, fiber, and a hint of fruit.

Shelf life and method differences

Jam made with Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam method is quick but must be kept cold. Cooked jam lasts longer and is pantry-safe.

Method Comparison Table

Which one is right for you?

Use Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam when you want fast results and fresh taste. It’s perfect for weekend batches or for those new to jam making.

Cooked jam is great for storing long-term or sharing as gifts. The process takes longer, but the end result is firm and shelf-stable.

Storage & Shelf Life of Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam is a homemade favorite that’s easy to store and keeps its fresh strawberry flavor for months. This jam is not just tasty—it’s practical too. Let’s go through how to store it the right way and get the most from every jar.

How Long Can Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam Last?

Storing your Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam properly helps it last longer and taste better. Here’s how long you can keep it fresh:

Refrigerator Storage

• Lasts up to 3 weeks
• Keep it in clean, tightly sealed jars
• Label with the date you made it
• Use dry spoons only

Freezer Storage

• Keeps fresh for up to 12 months
• Use small, freezer-safe containers
• Leave room at the top—jam expands
• Defrost in the fridge overnight

Room Temperature

• Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam should never be stored at room temperature
• It must be refrigerated or frozen for safety and freshness

Best Storage Tips for Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam

To keep your jam tasting great:

• Avoid opening too often
• Don’t double-dip
• Store in small jars to reduce waste
• Freeze in cubes for small servings

Quick Tip: Use silicone ice cube trays to freeze jam in single servings. Just pop out one cube when you need a little.

Creative Ways to Use Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam

This Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam is more than a spread. Here are simple, creative ways to enjoy it every day.

Add to Yogurt

• Mix a spoonful into plain or vanilla yogurt
• Swirl gently for color and sweetness
• Makes a great snack or breakfast

Drizzle on Cheesecake

• Warm a bit and pour over cheesecake
• Adds a fruity touch to any dessert
• Try it with this creamy Brownie Batter Ice Cream for a fruity-chocolate combo

Use in Mini Cakes

• Spread between cake layers or on top
• Ideal for cute treats like Bento Cake
• Makes a perfect party dessert

Stir Into Oatmeal

• Add while oatmeal is warm
• Melts in for flavor without extra sugar
• Great for kids and adults alike

Blend in Smoothies

• Freeze jam in cubes
• Toss into fruit smoothies for extra strawberry taste

Serving Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam in Unique Ways

The beauty of Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam is in its versatility. Here are some creative ideas:

Dessert Sauce

• Thin it slightly and pour over cakes
• Combine with whipped cream or chocolate

Filling for Cookies

• Use as a center for thumbprint cookies
• Adds a bright taste to soft cookie dough

Breakfast Ideas

• Spread on pancakes, waffles, or muffins
• Mix into cream cheese for a flavored spread

FAQ About Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam

Final Thoughts on Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam

Sure Jell Strawberry Freezer Jam is easy to make, even easier to store, and brings the taste of summer to your meals all year round. With simple tools, a few ingredients, and proper storage, you’ll enjoy fresh jam that’s full of flavor and made with love.

Need more fruity dessert inspiration? Check out our delicious Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake, which pairs perfectly with strawberry jam as a tropical topping.

For professional canning tips, trusted guidelines, and safety updates, check out Ball® Mason Jars’ official site. a well-established resource in home canning techniques trusted by both beginners and pros.