Certo Quick and Easy Freezer Jams

 Freezer jams and jellies have softer sets than cooked jams or jellies but can be prepared in about half the time. CERTO IS IN A BLUE BOX, AND CONTAINS 2 FOIL PACKETS OF A LIQUID PECTIN, UNLIKE OTHER SURE-JELLS.

1. Use dry measuring cup to measure the exact amount of prepared fruit. (USE FIRM FRUIT FOR BEST FLAVOR AND RESULTS.    I HAVE USED A BLENDER TO BLEND UP THE FRUIT BUT YOU COULD ALSO CUT THE FRUIT VERY SMALL AND USE A POTATO MASHER.  I DO ENJOY SEEING BITS OF FRUIT IN THE JELLY SOMETIMES SO YOU WOULD BLEND SOME SMOOTH AND LEAVE SOME SMALL CHUNKS).

2. Measure the exact amount of sugar into a separate bowl with the dry measuring cup.  (DO NOT REDUCE THE SUGAR OR USE SUGAR SUBSTITUTES SINCE THIS WILL RESULT IN SET FAILURES).

3 Add sugar to prepared fruit.  Mix well  Let stand 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine pectin, lemon juice (if listed in the recipe) and water in a small bowl.  Add to fruit; stir 3 minutes or u til sugar is completely dissolved.

5. Pour into prepared containers, leaving 1/1" space at the top of each for expansion during freezing; cover with lids.

6. Let stand at room temperature 24 hours or until set.  Refrigerate up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 1 year.  If frozen, thaw in refrigerator before using.

STRAWBERRY...makes about 4 cups

4 cups of strawberries

1 lemon

Remove and discard strawberry stems,  Crush strawberries

2 cups crushed strawberries

2 T fresh lemon juice but you can use bottled juice

4 cups sugar

1 pouch CERTO

PEACH...makes about 7 cups

2-1/4 pounds peaches

3 lemons

Peel, pit and finely chop peaches

2-3/4 cups finely chopped peaches

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

6-1/2 cups sugar

2 pouches CERTO