Small Batch Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe
Sweet and tangy Small-Batch Strawberry Rhubarb Jam captures the fresh flavors of spring and summer in an easy-to-make, quick recipe. This homemade jam requires minimal ingredients and effort, perfect for enjoying fresh, flavorful jam without needing large-scale canning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 1½ cups rhubarb, diced into ½ inch pieces
- 2 cups strawberries, stemmed and sliced into ½ inch pieces (measure after slicing)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ – ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust depending on strawberry sweetness)
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the diced rhubarb, sliced strawberries, sugar (starting with ¼ cup), fresh lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla bean paste or extract into a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Cover with a lid to allow the fruits to start releasing juices.
- Cook Covered: Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring once or twice to make sure the ingredients are well incorporated and the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Simmer Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue to cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let the jam simmer until most of the liquid evaporates and the consistency thickens, about 25 minutes. Adjust heat to medium-low if the jam bubbles too vigorously or sticks to the pan.
- Cool and Store: Once thickened, remove from heat and let the jam cool completely. The jam will continue to thicken upon cooling. Store in the refrigerator and use within a week or so.
Notes
- Taste the jam after the initial 5 minutes and add more sugar if your strawberries are not very sweet.
- The jam thickens further as it cools, so don’t overcook it thinking it’s too runny while hot.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries and firm rhubarb for the best texture and flavor.
- Store refrigerated and consume within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness.
- If you want to preserve the jam longer, consider proper canning methods.
