Today is ‘2025-07-03 11:59:27.117644’, and you’re in for a treat with this sugar-free strawberry jam recipe. Perfect for those who love their sweets but want to keep it healthy. This jam is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, with no added sugars, just pure strawberry goodness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, making it perfect for diabetics or anyone reducing sugar intake.
- Packed with fresh strawberries, offering a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Simple ingredients and steps ensure anyone can make it, no fancy skills required.
- Customizable sweetness and texture to suit your personal preference.
- Freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy summer strawberries all year round.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or stevia (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickening)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or immersion blender
- Glass jars for storage
Instructions
Prepare Your Strawberries
Start by washing and hulling your strawberries, then chop them into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they’ll break down into jam. This is also the time to decide if you want a smoother jam or one with chunks of fruit. Tip: For a smoother jam, you can blend half of the strawberries before cooking.
Cook the Strawberries
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened and released their juices. Tip: If you’re using chia seeds for thickening, add them now.
Sweeten the Jam
Once the strawberries are soft, stir in your choice of sweetener and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed. Remember, the jam will taste less sweet once cooled, so it’s okay if it’s a bit sweeter than you’d like at this stage.
Thicken the Jam
Continue to cook the jam on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker jam, let it cook longer, but keep stirring to prevent burning. Tip: To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate; if it gels, it’s done.
Store the Jam
Once the jam has cooled slightly, transfer it to clean glass jars. Let it cool completely before sealing. The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for longer storage.
Tips and Tricks
Making sugar-free jam is an art, and here are some tips to perfect it. First, always taste your strawberries before starting; their natural sweetness varies. Second, if your jam is too thin after cooling, you can reheat it and add more chia seeds or a natural thickener like pectin. Third, for a unique flavor, try adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom. Remember, the key to great jam is patience; don’t rush the cooking process.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Mix: Substitute half of the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
- Spiced Jam: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a citrusy note.
- Herbal Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or mint leaves for an herbal twist.
- Chocolate Jam: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate-strawberry jam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh. Just thaw them before cooking, and you might need to cook them a bit longer to reduce excess liquid.
How can I make the jam thicker? Besides cooking it longer, you can add chia seeds or a natural thickener like pectin. Chia seeds also add a nutritional boost.
Is this jam safe for canning? Since this recipe doesn’t use sugar, which acts as a preservative, it’s best stored in the fridge or freezer. For canning, you’d need to follow a tested recipe with proper acidity and sugar levels.
Summary
This sugar-free strawberry jam is a healthy, delicious alternative to traditional jams, easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for toast, yogurt, or desserts, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll love.