Description
This homemade Plum Jam recipe captures the natural sweetness and tartness of ripe plums cooked down with sugar and lemon juice to create a luscious spread. Naturally high in pectin, it requires no added pectin and thickens beautifully on the stovetop, resulting in a deliciously fruity jam perfect for toast, desserts, or gifts.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe plums, pitted and chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped plums, granulated sugar, and lemon juice into a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered, stirring frequently for 25–35 minutes. During this time, the fruit will break down, and the mixture will begin to thicken.
- Add Optional Flavors: If using, stir in the lemon zest and ground cinnamon during the last 5 minutes of cooking to infuse the jam with extra flavor.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for 1 minute. If the surface wrinkles when pressed gently with a finger, the jam is properly thickened; if not, continue simmering a few more minutes and test again.
- Cool and Store: Remove the pot from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Transfer the jam into clean jars and allow it to cool completely before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- No pectin needed—plums are naturally high in pectin, making this jam easy to thicken without additives.
- For a smoother jam texture, blend briefly with an immersion blender before cooling.
- Adjust sugar according to the sweetness of your plums and personal preference.
