Delicious Canning Strawberry Pie Filling Recipe: Preserve The Sweetness!

Looking to preserve the deliciousness of fresh strawberries for longer? You’ve come to the right place! In this blog article, we’ll share with you an easy and mouthwatering canning strawberry pie filling recipe. Imagine enjoying a slice of homemade strawberry pie, even during the winter months when fresh strawberries are out of season. This recipe allows you to capture the vibrant flavors of juicy strawberries at their peak and savor them throughout the year. So, let’s dive right in and learn how to create this delectable treat.

Canning Strawberry Pie Filling Recipe

The Joy of Homemade Strawberry Pie Filling

There’s something truly delightful about the vibrant red color, the juicy sweetness, and the irresistible aroma of fresh strawberries. And when these delicious berries are transformed into a luscious pie filling, the result is pure dessert perfection. Canning strawberry pie filling allows you to capture the flavors of summer and enjoy them all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you master the art of canning strawberry pie filling.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before diving into the canning process, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for your homemade strawberry pie filling:

• 5 pounds of fresh strawberries
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of lemon juice
• 3/4 cup of ClearJel (a modified cornstarch used for canning)
• 1 1/2 cups of water
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)

Cleaning and Preparing the Strawberries

To ensure the best quality of your strawberry pie filling, it’s essential to start with clean and ripe strawberries. Follow these steps to prepare the strawberries for canning:

1. Wash the strawberries under cool running water, gently removing any dirt or debris.
2. Remove the stems and hulls from the strawberries, either by cutting them out with a knife or using a strawberry huller.
3. Slice the strawberries into desired sizes. You can choose to leave them whole, halve them, or even quarter them based on your personal preference.

Cooking the Strawberry Pie Filling

Now that your strawberries are ready, it’s time to start cooking the pie filling. Follow these steps for a delicious and perfectly thickened strawberry filling:

1. In a large pot, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well and let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ClearJel and water until smooth. This will prevent any lumps from forming when added to the strawberry mixture.
3. Once the strawberries have released their juices, place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
4. Gradually add the ClearJel mixture to the pot while stirring continuously. The mixture will begin to thicken as it boils.
5. If desired, add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the pot for an extra touch of flavor.
6. Continue to cook the filling for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until it reaches a thick consistency.

Properly Canning the Strawberry Pie Filling

Now that your strawberry pie filling is ready, it’s time to can it so you can enjoy it throughout the year. Follow these steps to ensure safe and effective canning:

1. Prepare your canning jars and lids by washing them with warm, soapy water and sterilizing them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Dry them thoroughly before use.
2. Fill each jar with the hot strawberry pie filling, leaving a 1-inch headspace at the top to allow for expansion during processing.
3. Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills or residue. This will ensure a proper seal.
4. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands until they are finger-tight. Do not over-tighten.
5. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes, making sure they are fully submerged. Adjust the processing time if you are at a higher altitude.
6. After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath using jar lifters and place them on a towel-lined surface. Allow them to cool undisturbed for 24 hours.
7. Check the seals on the jars by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid pops back, it is not properly sealed and should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoying Your Homemade Strawberry Pie Filling

Now that you’ve successfully canned your own strawberry pie filling, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your homemade creation:

• Use the strawberry pie filling as a delicious filling for fresh pies. Simply pour the filling into a pre-baked pie crust and let it set before serving.
• Spoon the filling over vanilla ice cream for a decadent strawberry sundae.
• Spread the filling on toast or biscuits for a scrumptious breakfast treat.
• Mix the filling into yogurt for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Get creative and use the filling as a topping for pancakes or waffles.

Canning strawberry pie filling is a fantastic way to preserve the wonderful flavors of fresh strawberries. With this step-by-step guide, you can confidently create your own homemade strawberry pie filling and enjoy it long after strawberry season has ended. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet and tangy aroma of strawberries fill your kitchen. Your future self will thank you for the delectable desserts and sweet memories that await!

Blue Ribbon Canning Strawberry Pie Filling

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients do I need to make strawberry pie filling for canning?

To make strawberry pie filling for canning, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup clear gel or cornstarch
• 1 ½ cups cold water or strawberry juice
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• Red food coloring (optional)

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries to make the pie filling. However, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

How long can I store canned strawberry pie filling?

Canned strawberry pie filling can be stored in a cool, dark place such as a pantry for up to one year. Make sure the jars are properly sealed and check for any signs of spoilage before using.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the pie filling?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the pie filling according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the amount of sugar. Conversely, if you prefer a less sweet filling, you can reduce the amount of sugar used.

Can I omit the lemon juice in the recipe?

Lemon juice is added to the strawberry pie filling recipe to enhance the flavor and acidity, which helps with preservation. If you prefer not to use lemon juice, you can omit it, but the shelf life of the canned filling may be slightly reduced.

Can I use this strawberry pie filling for other desserts?

Absolutely! This strawberry pie filling can be used for various desserts such as tarts, turnovers, or as a topping for ice cream, cheesecake, or pancakes. Get creative and enjoy the delicious strawberry flavor in different ways!

Final Thoughts

Canning strawberry pie filling is a delightful way to preserve the sweet and tangy goodness of strawberries throughout the year. This recipe offers a simple and effective method to savor the flavors of fresh strawberries, whether they’re in season or not. By following the steps outlined above, you can create jars filled with the vibrant red pie filling, ready to be used in your favorite desserts. So, if you’re looking to create a stockpile of homemade strawberry pie filling, this canning recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the scrumptious taste of summer in every jar of homemade canned strawberry pie filling!