Jams make whipping up a quick snack oh so easy, which is great if you’ve got hungry kids who have a massive sweet tooth! On their own, fruit jams can keep for a long, long time because the sugars prevent bacterial growth that causes spoilage. However, you can freeze jam to extend its shelf life too!
Freezing jams allows you to enjoy your favorite sandwich spreads all year long, particularly those that are made from seasonal fruits.
When frozen properly, jams will keep fresh for up to 12 months but we recommend consuming your batch within six months or less for best results. Jams that are kept in the freezer for too long will start losing character and intensity. In addition, the consistency will turn watery, which could be off-putting for some people.
How to Freeze Jams?
The best way to freeze jams is to keep them in thick, sturdy glass jars or rigid, freezer-safe plastic containers. For homemade jams, you want to cool the fruit spread at room temperature prior to transferring to a glass jar.
When filling the jar, leave about half an inch of space from the top to allow the jam to expand as it freezes. Never overfill the container because the frozen jam could spill out of the container as it expands. Finally, close the container with an airtight lid and stick in the freezer.
How to Defrost Frozen Jam?
There are two ways to defrost frozen jam, you can do it slowly or you can thaw quickly if you are pressed for time:
Slow Thawing
The best way to defrost frozen ham is to transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and leave it to thaw overnight.
Fast Thawing
If you’re in a rush, try submerging the frozen solid jar of jam in a basin of warm water for 30 minutes to 1 hour. It’s important to note that once the jam has been defrosted, you should consume it and never refreeze.
Summary
Freezing jams and jellies mean you can whip up quick snacks and add a dash of sweetness to your favorite pies and desserts. You can also store more jams to give away to friends and loved ones. Now that you know how to freeze jams properly, you can extend the life of your favorite sweet spread!