This morning I was scrambling through my fridge (as I do) and found some berries that desperately needed to be used!

Berry season is fast running out so I just couldn’t bear to let these guys go to waste. Preserves to the rescue! In case you find yourself with some “less than fresh” berries, here’s how to make them. They’re easy, versatile, and very Anne of Green Gables.

Strawberry Preserves

What you’ll need:
1 cup chopped strawberries (whole raspberries/blueberries/mangos/apples work well too)
Juice of 1/2 lime or 1/4 lemon
1/2-1 tsp of raw honey or maple syrup
1 small saucepan

To make: Throw berries, juice and honey into pot. Let simmer until the fruit softens.

Mash with a fork until it is half “smashed” with some fruit intact.

Continue to let simmer on low-med heat until the mixture thickens to desired texture (when you can dip a spoon in and take it out coated in berry gunk).

Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before putting into a jar or container.

Use for: I love topping my oatmeal with some warmed up preserves or spooning the chilled stuff into my Greek yogurt. It can also spread on gluten free bread or even used as a dip for apples or other more autumnal fruits! This recipe freezes well too, so make a few different batches and pop them out of the freezer for a special breafkast or lovely hostess gift.