1 Shares

There’s something incredibly refreshing about the combination of vibrant strawberries and juicy watermelon that just screams summer. Imagine the delightful, sun-ripened aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a batch of homemade Strawberry Watermelon Jam. I discovered this easy recipe on a lazy afternoon when my fridge overflowed with ripe produce, and I simply couldn’t let those beautiful fruits go to waste.

As I mixed the sweet watermelon juice with the tartness of strawberries, memories of picnics and backyard barbecues flooded my mind. This jam not only brings the taste of summer into your pantry but also makes for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with toast or can elevate your desserts. If you’re tired of the same old sugary spreads and seek to reignite your love for homemade flavors, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to share. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple creation that captures the essence of summer in every jar!

Why is Strawberry Watermelon Jam so special?

Uniqueness: This jam combines the sweet, juicy flavors of strawberries with refreshing watermelon for a unique summer treat.
Simplicity: With just a few straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this delicious jam in under an hour.
Versatility: Enjoy it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a topping for desserts—I promise it elevates everything!
Crowd-Pleasing: Its vibrant color and lively flavor make it a hit at gatherings, leaving guests wanting more.
Time-Saving: For those busy days, this quick recipe allows you to savor homemade goodness without the fuss.
Nothing says summer like the delightful blend of flavors in this jam—don’t miss out on bringing a taste of sunshine into your kitchen!

Strawberry Watermelon Jam Ingredients

Create the perfect spread with these essentials!

For the Fruit Mixture

Strawberries – 2 1/2 cups of chopped fresh or frozen strawberries add a delightful sweetness to your jam.
Watermelon Juice – 2 1/2 cups; freshly juiced watermelon packs a refreshing taste that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon; a splash of lemon helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of your jam.

For the Sweetness

Sugar – 7 cups; this might seem like a lot, but it’s essential for achieving that perfect jam texture and sweetness.

For the Texture

Regular Pectin – 1.75 ounces; this helps your jam set properly, making it thick and spreadable.
Unsalted Butter (optional) – 1 teaspoon; adding butter can help reduce foam and give your jam a smoother finish.

Whether you’re slathering it on warm toast or dressing up your favorite desserts, this Strawberry Watermelon Jam recipe is sure to bring joy to your table!

How to Make Strawberry Watermelon Jam

Puree Watermelon: Start by blending your watermelon chunks in a blender or food processor until smooth. Strain it through a fine mesh sieve to collect that refreshing juice—it’s the essence of summer!
Mix Ingredients: In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine the freshly strained watermelon juice, chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and pectin. If you’re using butter, add it in for a smoother finish.
Boil Mixture: Stir the mixture gently but frequently until it reaches a rapid boil. You want that boil to stay strong even as you stir—this will ensure a beautiful jam consistency!
Add Sugar: Once boiling, gradually stir in the sugar. Keep stirring, gentle but constant, until the mixture returns to a rapid boil. Start timing for 1 minute and 10 seconds; stirring all the while will give you that perfect texture.
Cool and Store: Remove the jam from heat. If you’re canning, follow your canning process; if not, ladle the jam into jars and let them cool completely before storing in the fridge. Your jam will stay fresh for up to one month!

Optional: Drizzle a little extra lemon juice for a zesty kick when serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Watermelon Jam

Perfect Ripeness: Choose ripe strawberries and watermelon to maximize flavor. Overripe fruit can lead to a mushy texture in your Strawberry Watermelon Jam.
Boiling Technique: Maintain a vigorous boil when adding sugar and timing. A slow boil won’t help the jam set properly, resulting in a runny consistency.
Canning Considerations: If cans are not sealed properly, your jam can spoil quickly. Use sterilized jars and ensure the lids pop when cooled to indicate a good seal.
Foam Control: If you’re concerned about foam forming while cooking, adding a teaspoon of unsalted butter helps minimize it. It gives your jam a lovely, smooth finish!
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding a hint of vanilla or mint to enhance the flavor of your jam. Just a touch can elevate your Strawberry Watermelon Jam experience!

Strawberry Watermelon Jam Variations

Customize your jam for delightful new flavors and textures!

Sugar-Free: Substitute sugar with your favorite sweetener, adjusting the quantity to taste for a guilt-free version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a surprising burst of heat that enhances the sweetness.
Minty Fresh: Stir in chopped fresh mint at the end for a refreshing twist that brightens up the jam beautifully.
Berry Medley: Use a mix of berries like raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries for a colorful and flavorful jam update.
Zesty Orange: Replace lemon juice with fresh orange juice and a bit of zest for a citrusy flair that complements the watermelon.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical touch, mix in a spoonful of coconut cream at the end for a smooth, creamy texture and delightful flavor.
Rum-Infused: A splash of dark or spiced rum can add depth and warmth, ideal for those who enjoy a little twist in their spread.
Chia Seed Boost: Replace some pectin with chia seeds; this adds nutrients and a unique texture while contributing to a gel-like consistency.

Embrace creativity and make this jam truly yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Watermelon Jam preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can make the watermelon juice up to 24 hours in advance; simply blend and strain it, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. You can also chop the strawberries ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days—this helps save precious minutes on jam-making day. When you’re ready to create your jam, combine the prepared ingredients, and follow the cooking steps as usual. This way, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and still enjoy delicious homemade jam that’s just as vibrant and sweet!

Storage Tips for Strawberry Watermelon Jam

Room Temperature: Unopened jars of Strawberry Watermelon Jam can be kept in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Fridge: Once opened, store your jam in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to one month. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to keep flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to one year. Leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: If the jam becomes too thick after refrigeration, gently reheat it on low heat while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Enjoy it warm over your favorite snacks!

What to Serve with Strawberry Watermelon Jam?

There’s something magical about creating a full meal that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.

Warm Toast: The classic choice for jam, warm toast provides a crunchy contrast to the sweet, smooth jam that spreads beautifully across its surface.
Cream Cheese Crostini: The tang of cream cheese pairs wonderfully with the fruity sweetness, creating an elegant appetizer perfect for gatherings.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with dollops of jam and fresh fruit; the combination offers a delightful breakfast or healthy snack that bursts with flavor.
Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle this jam on top of your favorite breakfast stack for an irresistible burst of summer flavors that will brighten any morning.

For dessert lovers:

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with Strawberry Watermelon Jam creates a refreshing treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Shortcake: Use this refreshing jam as a filling between layers of fluffy shortcake, topped with whipped cream for a heavenly dessert.

Quench your thirst with:

Sparkling Water: Add a splash of your jam to sparkling water for a refreshing, fruity drink that’s both elegant and thirst-quenching.

Elevate your next meal with these delightful pairings, and let the sweet, tangy flavors of Strawberry Watermelon Jam take center stage on your table!

Strawberry Watermelon Jam Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best strawberries and watermelon for this jam?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and free of dark spots. Avoid overripe strawberries, as they may lead to a mushy texture in your Strawberry Watermelon Jam. For the watermelon, choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform color; a yellow spot indicates ripeness!

How should I store my Strawberry Watermelon Jam?
Once you’ve opened a jar, store your jam in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to one month. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to keep out air and preserve that delicious flavor. If your jar is unopened and kept in a cool, dark cupboard, it can last up to one year!

Can I freeze Strawberry Watermelon Jam for later use?
Very! To freeze your jam, pour it into airtight containers—leaving about half an inch at the top for expansion. This method will keep your jam fresh for up to one year. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before serving.

What should I do if my jam doesn’t set properly?
If your jam is too runny, don’t fret! You can fix it by returning it to the stove. Bring the jam back to a rapid boil and stir gently. Adding a bit more pectin according to package instructions can help as well. Just remember to time it as instructed, and keep stirring to prevent scorching.

Is this recipe safe for my pets, or does it contain any allergens?
This Strawberry Watermelon Jam is safe for humans, but it’s best to skip giving it to pets. The high sugar content isn’t suitable for them. Additionally, if anyone has allergies to strawberries or certain fruits, you might consider using other fruit combinations while making sure to avoid those allergens. Always check with a physician if unsure!

Can I adjust the sweetness of my Strawberry Watermelon Jam?
Very much so! If you prefer a less sweet jam, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar slightly. However, keep in mind that sugar is essential for the texture and preservation. A good strategy is to start with a little less sugar and taste the mixture, adjusting to your liking before boiling.