Sweet strawberries and vibrant dragonfruit come together in a colorful preserve with tender pieces of fruit throughout. This recipe is excellent for breakfast, desserts, and homemade gifts that will be kept refrigerated.

Yield: Approximately 3 cups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Storage: Refrigerate promptly; use within 2 weeks.

Ingredients

– 1 1/2 cups ripe dragonfruit, cut into small cubes
– 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 package (1.75 ounces) regular powdered fruit pectin
– 3 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Wash the strawberries and remove their green tops. Chop them into small pieces.
2. Cut the dragonfruit into small cubes, approximately 1/4 inch in size.
3. Place the strawberries, dragonfruit, lemon juice, and water in a medium saucepan.
4. Heat over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring gently. Mash a small portion of the strawberries while leaving most of the fruit pieces intact.
5. Add the powdered pectin according to its package directions for cooked preserves.
6. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil.
7. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
8. Return to a full rolling boil and cook for the time specified by the pectin manufacturer, stirring continuously.
9. Remove from the heat and skim off any foam.
10. Ladle carefully into clean, heat-safe jars. Cool briefly and refrigerate promptly.
11. Chill for several hours before serving to allow the preserves to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

– Spread over toast, English muffins, or biscuits.
– Spoon over pancakes or waffles.
– Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies.
– Serve alongside pound cake or vanilla cheesecake.
– Stir a spoonful into oatmeal.

Storage: Keep refrigerated and use within 2 weeks. This is a refrigerator preserve, not a shelf-stable canning recipe.