Mary Berry Strawberry Jam Recipe – Classic, Sweet & Homemade

Strawberry jam was one of the first preserves I ever made, and it nearly boiled over on me the first time. I didn’t realize how quickly the mixture can bubble up once it reaches a rolling boil. But after a few tries (and cleaning sugar off my hob more than once), I finally nailed Mary Berry’s classic method.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—just three ingredients and you’ve got a glossy, soft-set jam that tastes like summer in a jar. It’s perfect for beginners, and trust me, you’ll never look at shop-bought jam the same way again.

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Why This One Works So Well

• Only 3 Ingredients – Strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice—nothing more.
• No Pectin Required – Lemon juice helps the strawberries set naturally.
• Soft Set, Full of Fruit – Keeps that classic, slightly loose British jam texture.
• Quick & Easy – From start to jar in under an hour.
• Perfect for Baking – Fills sponges and spreads beautifully on scones.

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Ingredients + Why They Matter

• Fresh Strawberries (1kg / 2.2 lbs) – Choose ripe, fragrant berries. Overripe ones can make the jam too runny.
• Granulated Sugar (1kg / 2.2 lbs) – Balances sweetness and preserves the jam. I once tried caster sugar, and it crystallized—stick to granulated.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (2 tbsp) – Brightens the flavor and helps the jam set naturally.

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How to Make Mary Berry’s Strawberry Jam

Step 1 – Prepare the Strawberries

Wash and hull the strawberries. If large, cut in half. Gently mash a few to release juice.

Step 2 – Add Sugar & Lemon Juice

Stir sugar and lemon juice into the strawberries. Leave for 15–30 minutes to draw out juices.

Step 3 – Cook the Jam

Warm gently until sugar dissolves. Increase heat and boil rapidly for 10–15 minutes.

• Thermometer method: Look for 105°C / 220°F.
• Plate test: Drop jam on a chilled plate, wait, then push with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.

Step 4 – Skim & Jar

Remove from heat, skim foam, and let sit 5 minutes. Ladle into sterilized jars and seal.

Step 5 – Store & Enjoy

Keep unopened jars in a cool cupboard. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.

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What Goes Well With Strawberry Jam

• Cream scones & clotted cream – A true British classic.
• Victoria sponge cake – Layer with whipped cream.
• Buttered toast or crumpets – Simple comfort food.
• Yogurt or porridge – Adds fruity sweetness.
• Breakfast pancakes or crepes – A natural topping.

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Expert Tips

• Don’t stir while boiling—the jam stays clearer.
• Sterilize jars properly—10 minutes in the oven at 140°C (285°F).
• If your jam looks too runny, keep boiling in 2-minute bursts and test again.
• A soft set is traditional—don’t expect a stiff jelly-like texture.

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Variations to Try

• Strawberry & Rhubarb Jam – Adds tangy depth.
• Vanilla Strawberry Jam – Stir in ½ tsp vanilla after cooking.
• Mint-Infused Jam – Infuse a sprig of mint, remove before jarring.
• Strawberry & Lemon Zest Jam – Adds brightness alongside the juice.

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Storage & Shelf Life

• Unopened jars: Store in a cool, dark place up to 12 months.
• Opened jars: Refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.
• Always label with the date so you know when it was made.

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FAQs

How long does homemade strawberry jam last?
Unopened, it lasts up to a year in sterilized jars. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.

Why won’t my strawberry jam set?
It probably didn’t reach the setting point (105°C / 220°F). Use a thermometer or plate test, and boil for a couple more minutes if needed.

Do I need pectin to make strawberry jam?
No—Mary Berry’s recipe relies on lemon juice, which works with the strawberries’ natural pectin.

Can I use frozen strawberries for jam?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess liquid first. Frozen berries may take a little longer to boil down.

What sugar is best for strawberry jam?
Granulated white sugar is best. Avoid brown sugar—it changes the flavor and can make the jam cloudy.

Can I make low-sugar strawberry jam?
Yes, but it won’t last as long and may not set as well. Store in the fridge and eat within 2 weeks.

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Other Similar Recipes

• Mary Berry Blackberry Jam Recipe
• Mary Berry Plum Jam Recipe
• Mary Berry Apricot Jam Recipe

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