Description

This homemade plum jam recipe transforms ripe plums into a sweet and tangy spread perfect for toast, pastries, or as a flavorful addition to desserts. Made with simple ingredients like fresh plums, sugar, and a hint of lemon juice, this jam offers a delightful balance of fruitiness and sweetness. Optional cinnamon and pectin enhance the flavor and texture for a perfect set and aromatic touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 pounds ripe plums, pitted and chopped
3 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Optional Ingredients

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 tablespoon pectin (optional, for quicker setting)

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Instructions

Prepare the Fruit: Thoroughly wash, pit, and chop the plums into small pieces to ensure even cooking and smooth jam consistency.
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and if using, ground cinnamon and pectin. Stir well to evenly distribute all components.
Cook the Jam: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
Test the Jam Set: To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, the jam is set. If not, continue cooking a few more minutes and test again.
Jar the Jam: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe jar rims clean and seal tightly with lids.
Cool and Store: Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for immediate use or process in a water bath for long-term pantry storage.

Notes

If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the cooked mixture slightly before jarring.
Pectin is optional but helps the jam set faster and with a firmer texture.
Using fresh lemon juice adds natural acidity to balance the sweetness and helps with preservation.
Store opened jam in the refrigerator and consume within 3 weeks.