Strawberry Jam

Step 1

To prepare for water-bath canning:

Step 2

Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water; rinse with warm water.

Step 3

Fill canning pot half full of water; add jars and water to cover. Bring water to a boil, reduce heat and simmer.

Step 4

Place lids in water to cover in a small saucepan; bring water to a simmer. Simmer until ready to use.

Step 5

Remove and drain jars and lids, one at a time, as needed for filling.

Step 6

To make the jam:

Step 7

Use a potato masher to crush strawberries; measure exactly 3 cups fruit.

Step 8

In a large, heavy stock pot, combine crushed strawberries, water, and pectin; stir until pectin dissolves. Let stand 10 minutes.

Step 9

Bring mixture to a full rolling boil (a boil that doesn’t stop bubbling when stirred) over high heat, stirring constantly. Boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add Splenda Sweetener, stirring until sweetener dissolves. Skim off any foam.

Step 10

To can the jam:

Step 11

Ladle hot jam immediately into prepared jars, leaving ½” of headspace at top of jars. Wipe jar rims and threads. Cover with 2-piece lids; tighten bands.

Step 12

Place jars on rack in canning pot. (Water must cover jars by at least 1”; add boiling water, if necessary.) Cover; bring water to a gentle boil.

Step 13

Process for 10 minutes. Remove jars and place upright on a towel to cool completely.

Step 14

After jars cool, check seals by pressing center of lid with finger. (If lid springs back, lid is not sealed and refrigeration is necessary.)

Step 15

Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, store refrigerated and use within 2 weeks.