Bursting with the flavour of fresh strawberries, strawberry jam is a timeless kitchen classic that’s easier to make than you may think.

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know!

How to make classic strawberry jam and common mistakes to avoid

Our traditional strawberry jam recipe only requires strawberries, jam sugar, and lemon juice, making it a wonderfully quick and easy weekend baking project with a short cooking time.

Whether you’re making your first batch or perfecting a favourite recipe, these simple recipe tips can help you create delicious strawberry jam from scratch:

• How to test that your jam has set: Test it using the frozen plate method. Spoon a little jam onto a chilled plate and gently push it after 20-30 seconds – if it wrinkles slightly, it’s ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.

• How to avoid a clumpy jam: Ensure that the strawberries have fully softened before adding the jam sugar.

• How to avoid grainy or crystallised jam: When heating the strawberry mixture, ensure that the jam sugar has completely dissolved before bringing it to a boil.

For more detailed instructions and measurements, check out our full strawberry jam recipe.

How to store strawberry jam for longevity and freshness

One of the best things about homemade strawberry jam is that it can be safely stored just like store-bought versions, so you can enjoy those sweet strawberry flavours long after the fresh fruit season has passed.

Once your strawberry mixture has reached setting point, transfer the hot jam into properly sterilised jars using a heatproof jug or jam funnel, taking care to avoid splashes.

To sterilise jars, wash them thoroughly in hot soapy water, rinse well, then place them on a baking tray in a low oven at around 140°C for 10-15 minutes until completely dry. Keep the jars warm until you are ready to fill them, as adding hot jam to cold glass can cause the jars to crack. Lids should also be cleaned and sterilised according to their type, then used while clean and dry.

Seal your jars of jam airtight and store them in a cool, dark cupboard at room temperature for lasting freshness. After opening, simply keep your strawberry jam in the fridge and enjoy within a few weeks for the best flavour. Proper sterilisation, sealing and storage help keep homemade jam fresher for longer.

For the best results, choosing the right jam sugar is essential. Our jam sugar helps you achieve a reliable set and delicious flavour.

Delicious ways to use strawberry jam beyond toast

Although strawberry jam is a breakfast favourite, there are so many more delicious ways to enjoy it. From family gatherings and afternoon tea to cosy weekends at home, it adds a fruity burst of flavour to all kinds of classic treats.

Light and fluffy English scones

A British afternoon tea classic. Spread some clotted cream and strawberry jam (in whichever order you prefer) on some fresh English scones for the ideal afternoon treat.

Feeling inspired? Bake your own batch using our easy scone recipe for wonderfully soft results.

Traditional Victoria sponge cake with sweet strawberry jam filling

Looking for a timeless celebration cake? A layer of strawberry jam paired with fluffy sponge and fresh cream creates a beautifully balanced dessert.

Add some fresh strawberries to finish and serve! Discover how to create this classic bake with our Victoria sponge cake recipe.

Classic jam roly-poly packed with fruity flavour

For a cosy dessert with plenty of nostalgic charm, jam roly-poly is always a great choice. Filled with sweet strawberry jam and served warm, it’s perfect for family puddings and cosy nights in.

Bring this comforting childhood favourite to life with our jam roly-poly recipe.

Impressive Viennese whirls with a strawberry touch

These delicate biscuit sandwiches may look impressive, but they’re surprisingly simple to make, with a baking time of under 15 minutes!

Filled with buttery cream and strawberry jam, Viennese whirls are perfect for sharing with guests or enjoying alongside an afternoon coffee.

Whip up a batch of these delicate treats in no time with our easy Viennese whirls recipe.

Make your own homemade strawberry jam

From spreading onto warm toast to layering into cakes and spooning over comforting desserts, homemade strawberry jam is a versatile treat that’s always worth making whenever strawberries are in season.

Ready to get started? Shop our jam sugar now and make your own batch!