Description
Capture the sweet essence of ripe strawberries in a jar with this homemade Strawberry Preserves Recipe. With whole fruit pieces suspended in a rich, luscious syrup, these preserves offer a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with toast, pastries, yogurt, and desserts. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures your preserves are perfectly thick, flavorful, and ready to be enjoyed year-round!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for depth)
Instructions
- Macerate the Strawberries: In a large bowl, mix strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 4–6 hours (or overnight) to release juices.
- Cook the Preserves: Transfer the mixture to a heavy-bottomed pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Boil and Thicken: Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 20–30 minutes, skimming off foam. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Test for Doneness: Use the wrinkle test—drop a spoonful of preserves on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
- Jar and Seal: Pour hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Seal tightly and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Notes
- For thicker preserves, cook longer or add 1 teaspoon of pectin.
- For a twist, add cinnamon or mix with raspberries for extra flavor.
- Refrigerate opened jars and consume within 3–4 weeks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Strawberry preserves, homemade jam, fruit preserves, canning recipe, easy strawberry spread