What To Know
- If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to preserve the bounty of the season, Sure-Jell for freezer jam is your answer.
- Sure-Jell for freezer jam is a powdered pectin that helps fruit thicken and set into a spreadable consistency.
- If the fruit is too sweet, add a bit of lemon juice or citric acid to balance the flavor.
Summer is synonymous with the sweet, refreshing taste of homemade jams. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to preserve the bounty of the season, Sure-Jell for freezer jam is your answer. This innovative pectin-based product allows you to create delicious, spreadable jams without the hassle of canning or long cooking times.
What is Sure-Jell for Freezer Jam?
Sure-Jell for freezer jam is a powdered pectin that helps fruit thicken and set into a spreadable consistency. Unlike traditional canning methods, freezer jams are made without added sugar and are frozen for preservation. This results in a fresher, more vibrant fruit flavor that’s perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or even ice cream.
Benefits of Using Sure-Jell for Freezer Jam
- Quick and Easy: Freezer jams can be made in as little as 15 minutes, making them a great option for busy home cooks.
- No Canning Required: Eliminate the need for specialized equipment and the risk of spoilage associated with traditional canning.
- Preserves Fresh Fruit Flavor: Freezer jams retain the natural sweetness and vibrant colors of fresh fruit, resulting in a more authentic taste.
- Versatile: Freezer jams can be made from a wide variety of fruits, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and even less common varieties like elderberries or rhubarb.
How to Use Sure-Jell for Freezer Jam
1. Prepare the Fruit: Wash and hull the fruit, then crush or mash it to the desired consistency.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed fruit, Sure-Jell, and lemon juice (if using).
3. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
4. Boil for 1 Minute: Once boiling, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for 1 minute. This allows the pectin to activate and thicken the jam.
5. Skim and Pour: Skim any foam from the surface of the jam, then pour it into clean freezer-safe containers.
6. Freeze: Let the jam cool slightly, then freeze it for at least 24 hours before serving.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Jam is Too Runny: The jam may not have been boiled long enough or the proportions of fruit and Sure-Jell were incorrect.
- Jam is Too Thick: Add a little bit of water or fruit juice to the jam and stir well.
- Jam Has a Bitter Taste: The lemon juice may have been too acidic. Use less lemon juice or omit it altogether.
- Jam Separated in the Freezer: The jam may have been thawed and refrozen too many times. Thaw the jam completely before using and discard any remaining jam.
Tips for Making Perfect Freezer Jams
- Use ripe, fresh fruit for the best flavor.
- If the fruit is too sweet, add a bit of lemon juice or citric acid to balance the flavor.
- Don’t overmix the jam, as this can break down the fruit and make the jam cloudy.
- Freeze the jam in small containers for easy serving.
- Freezer jams can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 year.
Creative Freezer Jam Flavors
- Strawberry-Rhubarb Freezer Jam: Combine the classic flavors of strawberries and rhubarb for a tart and refreshing twist.
- Blueberry-Lemon Freezer Jam: Add a touch of citrus to your blueberry jam with the addition of lemon juice and zest.
- Raspberry-Peach Freezer Jam: Create a vibrant and juicy jam by combining raspberries and peaches.
- Blackberry-Apple Freezer Jam: Experiment with a unique combination of sweet blackberries and tart apples.
- Mango-Pineapple Freezer Jam: Bring a tropical twist to your freezer jam with the flavors of mango and pineapple.
Beyond Freezer Jams: Other Uses for Sure-Jell
While Sure-Jell is primarily known for freezer jams, it can also be used for a variety of other culinary applications, including:
- Fruit Pie Fillings: Use Sure-Jell to thicken fruit fillings for pies, tarts, and cobblers.
- Fruit Sauces: Create delicious fruit sauces for pancakes, waffles, and ice cream using Sure-Jell.
- Glazes: Make flavorful glazes for cakes, cookies, and pastries with Sure-Jell.
- Marinades: Add Sure-Jell to marinades to help them adhere to meat and create a flavorful crust.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use Sure-Jell for traditional canning methods?
A: No, Sure-Jell for freezer jam is specifically formulated for freezer preservation. It is not suitable for traditional canning.
Q: How long do freezer jams last?
A: Freezer jams can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 year.
Q: Can I use Sure-Jell for freezer jam with frozen fruit?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fruit for freezer jam. However, it’s important to thaw the fruit completely before using it.
Q: What type of containers can I use for freezer jams?
A: Use freezer-safe containers such as glass jars, freezer bags, or plastic containers.
Q: Can I double or triple the recipe for freezer jam?
A: Yes, you can double or triple the recipe as long as you use the correct proportions of fruit, Sure-Jell, and lemon juice.
