As the heat of summer arrives, there’s nothing quite like the vibrancy of fresh fruit to ignite our culinary creativity. I was recently inspired by a juicy watermelon sitting on my counter, and I couldn’t help but pair it with sweet, ripe strawberries for an unforgettable twist. This summer strawberry watermelon jam is not just a delightful way to preserve the season’s best flavors; it’s also incredibly easy to make without added pectin. You’ll find yourself whipping it up in no time, turning your kitchen into a fragrant haven reminiscent of sun-soaked picnics. Not only is this jam a crowd-pleaser, perfect for spreading on toast or dolloping atop fresh pancakes, but it also brings the essence of summer straight to your pantry, ready for those chilly days ahead. Ready to capture that summer spirit in a jar? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why is Strawberry Watermelon Jam a Must-Try?
Vibrant Flavor Explosion: This jam showcases a delightful blend of strawberries and watermelon, offering a sweet, refreshing taste that dances on your palate—perfect for summer!
No Added Pectin Required: You’ll love how simple it is to make this jam without extra pectin, relying instead on the natural sweetness and juiciness of the fruits.
Versatile Uses: Spread it on morning toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a filling for pastries; the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether at a picnic or a breakfast gathering, your guests will adore the homemade touch of this jam. It’s an instant favorite!
Preserve the Season: Canning this jam allows you to savor summer flavors long after the season is over, creating a delightful treat for chilly winter mornings.
For more delicious recipes, don’t miss my Decadent Chocolate Strawberry oats or the luscious Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake.
Strawberry Watermelon Jam Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a delicious batch!
For the Jam
- Strawberries – Fresh or frozen, these juicy gems add body and sweetness to the jam; be sure to chop if using whole strawberries.
- Watermelon Juice – This fruity liquid brings a refreshing flavor; blend and strain fresh watermelon to yield about 2 ½ cups of juice from half a large watermelon.
- Sugar – Crucial for sweetness and to help the jam set properly; this recipe requires a significant amount for that perfect texture.
- Lemon Juice – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness; for the best results, opt for freshly squeezed juice.
- Unsalted Butter – Optional, but helps prevent foaming during cooking and gives a smooth finish to the jam.
For Canning
- Pectin – If you choose to use it, opt for regular or bulk form for consistency. Though this recipe can be made without added pectin, it aids in achieving the right set.
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating your very own strawberry watermelon jam! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor each homemade bite.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Watermelon Jam
Step 1: Prepare Jars
Fill a large canning pot with water and set it over high heat on the stove to bring to a boil. While the water heats, place your clean jam jars inside the pot to warm them up. This prevents the jars from breaking when you fill them with the hot strawberry watermelon jam. Make sure the jars are fully submerged for even heating.
Step 2: Juice Watermelon
Cut half a large watermelon into smaller pieces and place them in a blender. Puree the watermelon until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve over a bowl to separate the juice from the pulp. You should collect about 2 ½ cups of fresh watermelon juice, which will add a delightful lightness to your strawberry watermelon jam.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the watermelon juice, chopped strawberries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the optional unsalted butter. If using pectin, add it now as well. Stir everything well to combine, allowing the natural sweetness from the fruits to meld together while preparing the mixture for cooking down.
Step 4: Cooking
Place the pot over medium-high heat and stir frequently while the mixture heats up. Continue stirring until it comes to a rapid boil, which should take about 10–15 minutes. Watch for large bubbles forming and breaking the surface; this bubbling indicates that you are achieving the cooking temperature needed for your strawberry watermelon jam to set.
Step 5: Add Sugar
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, gradually add in the required amount of sugar while stirring constantly. Keep the heat at the same temperature and maintain the boil for exactly 1 minute and 10 seconds. The mixture should become bubbly and slightly thicker as the sugar dissolves fully, blending perfectly with the fruit flavors.
Step 6: Canning
Carefully remove the heated jars from the hot water using jar tongs, letting them drain briefly. Fill each jar with the hot strawberry watermelon jam, leaving a ¼ inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a good seal, then immediately place the lids on and screw the bands on firmly but not overly tight.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Process the sealed jars in the boiling water for 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal, ensuring the strawberry watermelon jam stays preserved. After processing, let the jars cool completely at room temperature for 24 hours. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down in the center of the lids; they should not pop back. Store your jam in a cool, dark place for up to 18 months.
Make Ahead Options
Making Strawberry Watermelon Jam is a fantastic way to save time, especially for busy home cooks! You can prep the watermelon juice and chopped strawberries up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, which prevents browning and maintains freshness. Additionally, if you’re canning, you can sterilize your jars up to three days before making the jam, ensuring efficiency during your cooking day. When you’re ready to finish the jam, simply combine the prepped ingredients, follow the cooking and canning instructions, and you’ll have that delicious summer delight without the last-minute rush. Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade jam with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Summer Strawberry Watermelon Jam
Dive into a delightful dining experience with the sweet and refreshing flavors of this seasonal jam, perfect for elevating everyday meals!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes beautifully contrasts the fruity brightness of the jam, creating a comforting side dish that delights.
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Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes: Stack these sweet cakes high and drizzle the jam over the top for a satisfying breakfast that celebrates summer mornings.
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Cheese Platter: Pairing this jam with a selection of cheeses—like creamy brie or sharp cheddar—creates an irresistible savory-sweet balance that’s a must for gatherings.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and a generous dollop of the jam for a refreshing breakfast or snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
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Grilled Meat Glaze: Brush your grilled chicken or pork with the jam during the last moments of cooking. Its sweet and tangy glaze adds an enlivening touch.
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Dessert Fillings: Use this vibrant jam as a filling for pastries, tarts, or cookies, giving baked goods a burst of refreshing flavor that captures summer.
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Sparkling Wine or Rosé: Sip on a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or white wine, as the light flavors will enhance the fruitiness of your jam beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream topped with the jam for a simple yet luxurious dessert that feels like summer in every bite.
Each pairing enhances the vibrant essence of strawberry watermelon jam, ensuring your meals are filled with joyful flavors and cherished memories.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Watermelon Jam
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Jars Should Be Hot: Always ensure your jars are heated before filling them with hot jam. This prevents breakage during the canning process.
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Watch the Boil: Maintain a consistent rapid boil once sugar is added; this ensures proper setting of the jam and prevents overflow.
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Check Seals: After cooling, press the center of the lids. If they don’t pop back, your strawberry watermelon jam is sealed correctly.
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Use Enough Water: Keep your jars submerged during boiling; not using enough water can lead to improper sealing or uneven processing.
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Avoid Over-Sweetening: Taste your mixture before adding all the sugar. If your strawberries are particularly sweet, you might want to reduce the sugar to your liking.
Strawberry Watermelon Jam Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delightful jam to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Peach Twist: Substitute peaches or nectarines for strawberries for a summery peach-watermelon jam that sings with flavor.
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Spiced Delight: Add a dash of cinnamon or ginger to the pot for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the fruity goodness.
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Liquid Pectin: If you prefer, use liquid pectin instead of powdered; follow the package instructions for the right amount needed.
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Berry Medley: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry jam that’s bursting with color and flavor.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeño for a sweet-and-spicy jam that surprises the palate.
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Maple Syrup: Swap out half of the sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness that’s perfect for breakfast.
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Citrus Boost: Incorporate a splash of orange or lime juice to brighten the flavor further and add a zesty twist that feels fresh.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment by adding a few fresh mint leaves during cooking for a refreshing herbal note that pairs beautifully with summer fruits.
For more delicious recipes, check out Strawberry Cheesecake Dessert Tacos or try the velvety goodness of Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake. Enjoy your jam-making journey!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Watermelon Jam
Room Temperature: Store sealed jars of strawberry watermelon jam in a cool, dark area for up to 18 months. Make sure the lids are properly sealed for optimal freshness.
Fridge: Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 1 month. Always use clean utensils to scoop out the jam to prevent spoilage.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze jam in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating: If the jam thickens after freezing, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore the desired consistency.
Strawberry Watermelon Jam Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for this jam?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are vibrant red and free from dark spots or bruises. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute; just ensure they are thawed and drained before use.
How long can I store my strawberry watermelon jam?
You can store sealed jars of your homemade strawberry watermelon jam in a cool, dark place for up to 18 months. Just ensure the seals are secure to keep the flavors fresh. Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate the jam and use it within a month to enjoy its peak freshness.
Can I freeze strawberry watermelon jam?
Very! You can absolutely freeze your jam for long-term storage. Just pour the jam into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 year. Thaw the jam in the refrigerator before using, and if needed, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave for a smoother texture.
What if my jam doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your jam doesn’t set as planned, it may be due to not boiling long enough or using under-ripe fruit. To fix this, simply reheat your jam on the stove, adding a bit more pectin according to package directions. Bring it back to a rolling boil for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously. After that, you can reprocess it in clean jars.
Is this jam safe for pets?
While strawberries and watermelon are safe for most pets in small amounts, the added sugar in jam can be unhealthy for them. It’s best to keep your jam out of reach of pets and keep in mind that the high sugar content isn’t suitable for their diets.
Can I make this jam lower in sugar?
Yes, you can! If you’d prefer to reduce the sugar, start by using the natural sweetness of the ripe strawberries and watermelon juice. Gradually add sugar to taste while cooking, aiming for a balanced sweet and tangy flavor. Just keep in mind that drastically reducing sugar may affect the jam’s setting and preservation.
Sweet and Refreshing Strawberry Watermelon Jam for Summer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large canning pot with water and set it over high heat to bring to a boil. Place clean jam jars inside the pot to warm them up.
- Cut half a large watermelon into smaller pieces and blend until smooth, then strain to separate juice from pulp.
- In a large pot, combine watermelon juice, chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and butter. Add pectin if using.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and stir frequently until it reaches a rapid boil.
- Add sugar gradually once boiling, stirring constantly for 1 minute and 10 seconds.
- Remove jars from the pot and fill with hot jam, leaving ¼ inch space at the top. Wipe rims and seal with lids.
- Process jars in boiling water for 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal. Allow jars to cool at room temperature for 24 hours.
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