Canning Strawberries
Sweet, juicy strawberries preserved in jars to enjoy year-round, perfect for topping desserts or adding to breakfasts.
- Author: Zerina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 pint jars
- Category: Preserving
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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- Fresh, ripe strawberries
- Granulated sugar (optional, for syrup or sweetened packing)
- Water
- Lemon juice (for acidity)
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Large pot or canner
- Jar lifter and funnel
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- Prepare strawberries — Wash strawberries gently under cold water. Remove stems and hulls. You can leave berries whole or slice depending on your preference.
- Prepare jars and lids — Sterilize jars and lids by boiling or washing in a dishwasher on high heat. Keep jars warm until ready to fill.
- Make syrup (optional) — Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until sugar dissolves for a light syrup. You can also use plain water or fruit juice as packing liquid.
- Fill jars — Pack strawberries into jars, leaving about ½ inch headspace. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice per pint jar to ensure proper acidity. Pour hot syrup or liquid over berries, maintaining headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a non-metallic spatula around the jar. Wipe rims clean.
- Seal jars — Place lids on jars and screw on bands fingertip tight (not too tight).
- Process jars — Place jars in a boiling water bath canner. Ensure water covers jars by at least 1 inch. Boil for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude).
- Cool and store — Remove jars carefully and let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals (lids should not flex). Label and store in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- Use firm, ripe strawberries for best texture.
- Adjust sugar to taste, but maintain acidity for safe canning.
- Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: canning strawberries, preserved strawberries, homemade jam alternative