Quick & Easy Low Sugar Strawberry Jam

making strawberry jam in a saucepan, bubbly simmered strawberries that have been mashed and cooked down

Quick & Easy Low Sugar Strawberry Jam

This jam can be made with strawberries or mixed berries; fresh or frozen. Within minutes your kitchen will smell divine as the berries cook down into a luscious sauce. Let them simmer a few minutes and then they are ready to top just about anything! We love this jam on pancakes, yogurt, porridge, ice cream, cake, and of course toast.

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: accoutrement, adaptable, batch cooking, berries, comfort, healthy, reduced sugar, sauce, versatile

Cook Time: 20

Resting Time: 15

Total Time: 35

Servings: oz

Calories: 40kcal

Author: juiceofsevenlemons

Cost: $3

Ingredients

16 oz strawberries or mixed berries frozen or fresh
2 teaspoons maple syrup adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste

Instructions

Place the saucepan over medium heat and add your berries. Stir well to combine. The berries will start to release juices.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
As the berries are cooking you can leave them as they are for a rustic thicker jam, mash them using a potato masher or fork until you reach your desired consistency. Or, if you prefer a smoother jam, you can puree the berries with a stick blender or food processor.
After 15-20 minutes, the jam should thicken and reduce slightly. Taste and add the maple syrup and vanilla paste to the mashed berries a little at a time until you reach your desired flavor.
Once the jam has reached your desired consistency and flavor (it will continue to thicken as it cools), remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
Transfer the cooled jam to a clean jar or container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate until ready to use. The jam will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

Customization: Feel free to adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less maple syrup according to your preferences. You could also use turbinado sugar, caster sugar, or honey to sweeten. Or, if the berries are sweet enough, leave the sweetener out completely.
Texture: The jam will thicken as it cools, so don't worry if it seems thin initially.
Storage: Store the jam in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage.
Variations: Experiment with different fruits or combinations of fruits to create unique flavors. You can also add spices like cinnamon or ginger for a flavor twist. Lemon juice and zest go great with strawberries. Or try a savory spin by using black pepper or basil.
Gift Idea: Homemade jam makes a thoughtful gift. Consider packaging it in decorative jars and adding a personalized label.

Nutrition