Strawberry Rhubarb Jam
There’s something undeniably charming about homemade jams, and Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is no exception. This delightful spread combines the sweet, luscious flavor of strawberries with the tart, tangy punch of rhubarb, creating a beautifully balanced and versatile jam that’s perfect for any occasion. Picture slathering this vibrant concoction on a warm slice of freshly baked bread or dolloping it on your morning pancakes – delicious!
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I still remember the first time I whipped up a batch of strawberry rhubarb jam. It was during a sun-drenched summer afternoon when my kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of bubbling fruit. The vibrant pink color that emerged as everything simmered away was as exciting as the flavor itself. It felt rewarding to transform simple ingredients into something special. Whether you’re a seasoned jam-maker or embarking on your first canning adventure, this recipe is easy to follow and offers a lovely way to savor the fruits of the season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just a few steps, you can have homemade jam ready in about 30 minutes.
- Irresistible Flavor: The sweetness of strawberries perfectly complements the tanginess of rhubarb, making for a deliciously dynamic pairing.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The stunning pink hue makes it a visual treat – perfect for gifts or gatherings.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for breakfast spreads, brunch gatherings, or even desserts.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleaser for various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups fresh strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. If you can’t find strawberries, you can substitute with raspberries, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
- 3 cups fresh rhubarb: Look for firm, bright-colored stalks. Frozen rhubarb works in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: This is essential for sweetness and preservation. You can reduce the sugar if you like a less sweet jam, but it might affect the texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps balance the sweetness. Don’t skip this step!
- Pinch of salt: A tiny bit enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Jam
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-size saucepan, combine 4 cups of sliced strawberries, 3 cups of sliced rhubarb, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Jam: Set the heat to medium and cook the mixture, gently stirring occasionally. Watch for the rhubarb and strawberries to begin breaking down and for the mixture to thicken. This should take about 20-25 minutes. Be cautious of bubbling – it can spill over if left unattended.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the jam is set, drop a teaspoon of the mixture onto a cool plate. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it’s ready. If it’s still runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- Cool the Jam: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the jam to cool for about 10 minutes while preparing your jars.
- Prepare Jars: Wash and sterilize jars and lids in hot water to ensure cleanliness.
- Ladle and Seal: Carefully ladle the warm jam into the jars, leaving some headspace at the top. Seal the jars while still warm. Let them cool to the touch before refrigerating.
- Clean Up: Wipe any excess jam from the jar rims to ensure a good seal.
Storing & Reheating
To store your Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, keep it in the refrigerator where it can last for up to three weeks. Use airtight jars to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers, where it can last for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. While the texture may slightly change, give it a good stir before serving to bring it back to life.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use fresh, ripe fruit for the best results. Overripe or moldy fruit can compromise the flavor.
- Monitor the jam closely as it cooks to prevent burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- If you’re unsure about the set, cooking jam can take practice. Just remember that the mixture will thicken slightly as it cools.
- For added flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract during cooking.
- If you want to simplify the process, this jam can be made in small batches so you can enjoy it fresh!
The beauty of making Strawberry Rhubarb Jam lies in the process as much as the product. It’s a way to celebrate the season’s fresh flavors and share a little happiness in a jar. So, don your apron and let the sweet aromas fill your kitchen. This recipe is not just about jam—it’s about creating memories.

Recipe FAQs
How long does strawberry rhubarb jam last?
Your strawberry rhubarb jam will last up to three weeks in the refrigerator when stored in airtight containers. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months.
Can I reduce the sugar in the jam recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. Reducing the sugar may change the texture and shelf life, but if you prefer a less sweet jam, feel free to experiment!
What’s the best way to test if my jam is set?
A simple way to test if your jam is set is by placing a spoonful on a cold plate and running your finger through it. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready!
Can I use frozen fruit for this recipe?
Frozen fruits work well in jam-making, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the pot. Fresh fruit, however, will give you the best overall flavor and texture.
Now, gather your ingredients and allow the whimsical flavors of this Strawberry Rhubarb Jam to enchant your taste buds. There’s nothing quite like homemade treats to bring joy to your kitchen and to those you love!
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Strawberry Rhubarb Jam
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 26 servings 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Rhubarb Jam combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh strawberries and rhubarb, making it a delightful topping for toast or desserts. Its simple preparation and fresh ingredients ensure a delicious homemade option that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, washed and thinly sliced (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 3 cups fresh rhubarb, washed and thinly sliced (about 3 long stalks)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced rhubarb, sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, cooking until the fruits begin to break down and the mixture thickens, about 20-25 minutes.
- To check if the jam has set, drop a teaspoon onto a plate and run your finger through it; if it stays separated, it’s ready. If it merges back together, continue cooking.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes while preparing the jars.
- Sterilize jars and lids by washing them thoroughly in hot water and drying them.
- Ladle the jam into the prepared jars and seal with lids. Allow to cool before refrigerating.
- Wipe off any excess jam from the sides of the jars.
Notes
Ensure the jars are completely dry after sterilizing for best results.
Store in the refrigerator and use within a few weeks for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
