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Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe with Fresh or Frozen Berries

Cozy, spoonable · Breakfast jam for toast and desserts · Made with simple ingredients for sweet berry bliss
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 39 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Strawberry Jam
  • 1 ½ pounds about 680 g strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • Fresh or frozen both work—if using frozen thaw slightly so they’re not rock solid.
  • 1/3 cup 70 g granulated sugar
  • Adjust slightly to taste if your berries are very sweet or very tart.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh preferred
  • Adds brightness and helps the jam set.
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest optional, but highly recommended
  • 1 tablespoon water only if needed for cooking down
  • Optional but recommended for extra thickness
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds for a thicker, spoonable jam
  • If you prefer a more classic texture skip chia and cook a bit longer instead.

Method
 

  1. Prep your strawberries. Hull and chop the strawberries into small pieces so they break down evenly.
  2. Combine in a saucepan. Add strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest to a medium saucepan. Stir to coat the fruit.
  3. Cook until thick. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a steady simmer. Cook, stirring often, until the mixture becomes glossy and noticeably thicker, about 20–30 minutes depending on your strawberries.
  4. Check the set. To test, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. After 1–2 minutes, run your finger through it—if it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s ready.
  5. (Optional) Thicken with chia. If using chia seeds, stir them in during the last 3–5 minutes of cooking. Cook briefly to distribute and thicken.
  6. Cool and store. Let the jam cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
  7. Jar it up. Spoon into clean jars. Refrigerate and use within a week or freeze for longer storage.