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Easy Small-Batch Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe Without Pectin Perfect for Beginners

small-batch strawberry rhubarb jam - featured image

A simple and approachable small-batch strawberry rhubarb jam recipe that requires no pectin, using fresh fruit, sugar, and lemon juice to create a naturally thick and delicious preserve.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
  • 1 ½ cups fresh rhubarb stalks, chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla bean or extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse strawberries and rhubarb well. Hull and quarter the strawberries, then chop rhubarb into ½-inch pieces. This prep takes about 10 minutes.
  2. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice. Add vanilla if using. Stir gently to mix well and let sit for 5 minutes to macerate.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning and to help the jam thicken and the fruit break down.
  5. Test for doneness by spooning a small amount onto a chilled plate and letting it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles and holds shape when pushed with a finger, it is ready. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Spoon into clean jars or containers and let cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
  7. Store in the refrigerator and use within 2 weeks.

Notes

Stir often to prevent scorching and remove foam during simmering for clearer jam. Use fresh lemon juice for best acidity and brightness. Test jam set on a chilled plate and allow jam to cool to thicken further. Sterilize jars if storing for longer than two weeks. Frozen fruit can be used but may require longer simmering.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry jam, rhubarb jam, small batch jam, no pectin jam, beginner jam recipe, homemade jam, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves