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Easy Small Batch Strawberry Rhubarb Vanilla Bean Jam Recipe for Perfect Homemade Preserves

small batch strawberry rhubarb vanilla bean jam - featured image

A quick and easy small batch jam combining tart rhubarb, sweet strawberries, and fragrant vanilla bean for a fresh, vibrant homemade preserve.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (150g) strawberries, hulled and quartered
  • 1 cup (120g) rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse strawberries and rhubarb under cold water. Hull and quarter the strawberries. Chop rhubarb stalks into 1/2-inch pieces. Set aside.
  2. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife, then scrape out the tiny seeds using the back of the knife or a spoon. Reserve both seeds and pod.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla seeds, vanilla pod, and water. Stir gently to mix everything.
  4. Place the pan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer.
  5. Let the jam simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Test by spooning a small amount onto a cold plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s ready.
  6. Remove the vanilla pod and discard. Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to clean jars.
  7. Once cooled to room temperature, seal jars and refrigerate. The jam will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

Do not rush the simmer step to avoid burning and achieve perfect texture. Stir frequently. Remove vanilla pod before storing to prevent bitterness. Frozen fruit can be used if thawed and drained. For low-sugar versions, use low-sugar pectin and reduce sugar. Coconut sugar or maple syrup can substitute granulated sugar for different flavor profiles.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry jam, rhubarb jam, vanilla bean jam, homemade preserves, small batch jam, easy jam recipe, vegan jam, gluten-free jam