As I sliced into the sun-ripened strawberries, the sweet aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me to summer days spent at the farmer’s market. There’s something undeniably delightful about transforming fresh fruit into a luscious jar of strawberry lavender jam. This homemade jam strikes the perfect balance between sweet and floral, making it an enchanting spread for breakfast or a delightful addition to your favorite desserts. Not only is this recipe a welcome departure from store-bought options, but it also allows for quick prep with ingredients you can easily find. You’ll feel like an artisan in your own kitchen, crafting something truly special. Can you imagine slathering this dreamy jam on warm, buttery toast or dolloping it on a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this gem!

Why make strawberry lavender jam?

Irresistible Flavor Fusion: This strawberry lavender jam combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the delicate floral notes of lavender, creating a unique spread that tantalizes the taste buds.

Quick and Easy: You’ll be amazed at how effortless it is to whip up, making it perfect for budding chefs and busy home cooks alike.

Artisan at Home: You’ll feel like a culinary artist crafting this delightful jam, perfect for impressing guests or giving as a gift.

Versatile Use: Enjoy it on toast, add it to desserts, or even pair it with savory dishes for a creative twist—your options are limitless!

Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your breakfast or dessert game. Check out my Red Velvet Strawberry for another delicious way to use strawberries!

Strawberry Lavender Jam Ingredients

• A delightful blend for summer!

For the Jam

Fresh strawberries – the star of this recipe, ensure they are ripe for maximum sweetness.
Granulated sugar – balances the tartness of strawberries; adjust to taste based on sweetness preference.
Fresh lavender buds – adds a fragrant floral note; be cautious as a little goes a long way.
Lemon juice – brightens the flavor and aids in preservation; freshly squeezed is best.
Pectin – helps the jam set; follow package instructions for precise amounts.

This strawberry lavender jam makes your mornings brighter and adds a special touch to all your favorite treats. Enjoy crafting this beautiful spread and savor every sweet moment!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Lavender Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing 2 pounds of ripe strawberries under cold water. Remove the green tops and slice them into halves or quarters, depending on your preferred texture. Place the strawberries in a large saucepan over medium heat, allowing them to soften and release their juices, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Mix in Sugar and Lavender
Once the strawberries are fragrant and juicy, add 1.5 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh lavender buds to the saucepan. Stir the mixture thoroughly for a few minutes until the sugar dissolves completely. The sweetness will beautifully balance the tartness of the strawberries, creating a luscious base for your strawberry lavender jam.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Incorporate the juice of one freshly squeezed lemon into the strawberry mixture. This addition not only brightens the flavor but also helps in preserving the jam. Continue to simmer the jam over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the mixture begins to bubble gently and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Pectin
Next, stir in the pectin according to the package instructions. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect jam consistency. As you mix, keep the heat at medium and cook the mixture for an additional 5-10 minutes until it reaches a rolling boil. You’ll know it’s ready when the jam coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Test for Doneness
To ensure your strawberry lavender jam has set properly, perform the plate test. Remove a spoonful of jam and drop it onto a chilled plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds its shape and leaves a clear line, it’s ready! If not, continue to cook for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Jar the Jam
Once your jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully ladle it into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal. This strawberry lavender jam is perfect for storing and enjoying later.

Step 7: Seal and Cool the Jars
Immediately seal each jar with a lid and process in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes to ensure preservation. After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water and place them on a clean kitchen towel or rack. Allow the jars to cool completely to room temperature, listening for the satisfying “pop” that indicates a proper seal.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy
Once cooled, store your strawberry lavender jam in a cool, dark place. It will keep for up to a year, but I bet it won’t last that long! Use it to delightfully enhance your breakfasts or desserts. This homemade spread is truly a treat you’ll want on hand all summer long!

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulging in the warmth of freshly baked cookies creates a perfect moment for delightful pairings that enhance every bite.

Cold Milk: A classic companion that cuts through the sweetness and enhances the chocolate experience, bringing back childhood nostalgia.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture beautifully complements the warm cookies, creating an irresistible sundae that melts in your mouth.
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or juicy blueberries add a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the cookies and bringing a burst of color.
Coffee: The deep, rich flavors of a freshly brewed cup elevate the experience, perfect for those cozy afternoon breaks with a sweet treat.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over cookies adds an extra layer of indulgence, making them even more decadent for chocoholics.
Nutty Brownies: Serve alongside nutty brownies for a delightful dessert duo that combines soft textures and deep flavors, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce can transform your cookie experience, adding a smooth, buttery richness that dazzles the palate.
Hot Cocoa: On a chilly day, warm up with hot cocoa, making for a comforting duo with your chocolate chip cookies that creates a cozy vibe.

These suggestions elevate your cookie experience, transforming simple moments into delightful gastronomic adventures!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Lavender Jam

Choose the Right Berries: Opt for ripe, fragrant strawberries. Overripe or under ripe berries will affect the sweetness and texture of your strawberry lavender jam.
Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements of sugar and pectin are crucial for a proper set. Too little can mean runny jam, while too much can lead to overly stiff jam.
Mind the Lavender: Use fresh lavender judiciously; a little goes a long way. Too much can overwhelm the jam’s flavor, so start small, and adjust to taste.
Cook on Medium Heat: Maintaining medium heat while cooking ensures the jam doesn’t scorch. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, creating that perfect, smooth consistency.
Don’t Rush the Setting Test: Patience is key. If the jam doesn’t pass the plate test, continue cooking. You want that lovely thick texture for your strawberry lavender jam!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful strawberry lavender jam jars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the strawberries (washed, hulled, and sliced) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days ahead. Additionally, measure out the sugar and lavender buds, and keep them ready to go in a separate container. When you’re ready to whip up the jam, simply combine the prepped ingredients as per the instructions, adding lemon juice and pectin before cooking. This not only saves you time but also ensures that your homemade jam is just as fresh and flavorful as if made on the spot! Enjoy the convenience of having this enchanting spread available right when you need it.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Lavender Jam

Room Temperature: Store unopened jars of strawberry lavender jam in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. They’ll stay fresh for up to a year.
Refrigerator: Once opened, keep the jar in the fridge, where it will stay delicious for about 2-3 weeks.
Freezer: If you want to extend the life of your jam, freeze it in small containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 6 months. Just thaw in the fridge before use.
Airtight Storage: Ensure all jars are sealed tightly to prevent spoilage. A proper seal helps preserve the lovely flavor balance of strawberry and lavender.

Variations & Substitutions for Strawberry Lavender Jam

Feel free to experiment and customize this delightful strawberry lavender jam to fit your taste preferences!

Honey Sweetener: Swap granulated sugar with honey for a natural sweetener, adding a touch of floral flavor that complements the lavender beautifully.
Lavender Infusion: If you love stronger lavender notes, steep dried lavender buds in water and use the infusion in place of some lemon juice for a deeper floral essence.

For those who want a more unique twist, consider adding a hint of spice with a dash of ground cardamom or cinnamon. It’ll create a warm flavor profile that contrasts beautifully with the sweet strawberries.

Alternative Fruits: Substitute some strawberries with ripe raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry jam experience that bursts with tangy sweetness.
No-Pectin Method: If you prefer a more natural thickening method, omit the pectin and increase the cooking time; this will reduce the mixture until it thickens naturally.

To indulge your dessert side, try stirring in a splash of balsamic vinegar for a gourmet touch with a subtle tang that elevates the flavor profile.

Zesty Lemon: Add more lemon zest along with the juice to enhance the citrusy brightness for a refreshing summertime spread.

The possibilities are endless! While you’re at it, check out my delectable Red Velvet Strawberry for a fun and creative way to utilize fresh strawberries!

Strawberry Lavender Jam Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberries should I use for this jam?
Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor. Look for ones that are bright red and firm. Avoid overripe berries with dark spots or under ripe ones, as they won’t provide the sweetness or texture you want in your strawberry lavender jam.

How should I store homemade strawberry lavender jam?
Unopened jars of strawberry lavender jam can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place like your pantry for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator, and it will remain delicious for about 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in small containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.

Can I freeze strawberry lavender jam?
Absolutely! To freeze, make sure to ladle the jam into airtight containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply transfer the jar to the fridge to thaw overnight, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready to go!

What if my jam doesn’t set properly?
If the jam doesn’t pass the plate test and hold its shape, you may need to cook it a bit longer. Continue simmering it on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for another 5-10 minutes. You can also add a bit more pectin following the package instructions. Remember to test again after cooking; patience is key for that perfect consistency!

Is there a way to adjust the sweetness of the jam?
Yes! You can easily adjust the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe according to your taste preference. If you prefer a less sweet jam, start by using less sugar (about 1 cup) and increase it gradually until the desired sweetness is reached. Keep in mind that sugar also acts as a preservative, so reducing it may shorten the shelf life.

Can I use dried lavender instead of fresh in this recipe?
While fresh lavender provides a more vibrant flavor, you can use dried lavender as a substitute. Just remember that dried lavender is more concentrated, so reduce the amount used by about half (1 tablespoon). Be sure to crush the dried lavender slightly before adding it to release its flavor. Enjoy the lovely balance in your homemade jam!