Homemade Plum Jam

Published: July 8, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This homemade plum jam is simple to prepare, making it perfect for novices and seasoned cooks alike
Bursting with fruity flavor, it enhances both sweet and savory dishes
Its vibrant color makes every breakfast table pop with excitement
Ideal for gifting or enjoying at home, it’s a versatile treat that everyone will love

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about how my family devoured jars of this jam during Sunday brunches, each spoonful accompanied by laughter and stories shared.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Plums: Choose ripe plums for the best flavor; they should yield slightly when pressed.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps balance the tartness of the plums; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity and brightens the flavors; bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. For more inspiration, check out this lemon blueberry bread recipe recipe.
Cinnamon Stick: Optional but provides a warm spice note that complements the plums beautifully.
Pectin (optional): If you prefer a thicker texture, adding pectin can help achieve that perfect spreadable consistency.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preparing homemade plum jam is easier than finding matching socks in the laundry! Let’s dive into this delightful process step by step. add jam to granola bars.

Prepare Your Plums: Start by washing about two pounds of fresh plums thoroughly under cool water. Cut them in half and remove the pits—this part can get a little messy but think of it as your fruit spa day!

Cook Down The Mixture: In a large pot over medium heat, combine your prepared plums with sugar (about two cups) and freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one lemon). Stir gently until everything starts to bubble—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Add Spice And Simmer: Toss in one cinnamon stick for an aromatic touch. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes or until the plums break down completely. Remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom—no one wants scorched jam!

Check The Consistency: After simmering, remove from heat and test your jam’s thickness by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels nicely after cooling slightly, you’re good to go; if not, return it to heat for another few minutes.

Jar It Up!: Pour your luscious creation into sterilized jars while it’s still hot. Seal tightly and allow them to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. Your homemade plum jam is ready to bring joy!

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy homemade plum jam year-round or share those delicious memories with family and friends! delicious jam-filled cookies.

You Must Know

Homemade plum jam is a delightful way to preserve summer’s bounty
The sweet and tangy flavor will brighten up any breakfast
Plus, making it at home lets you control the sweetness and avoid strange preservatives
Your toast will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing the plums thoroughly, then pit and chop them before cooking. Simmer with sugar and lemon juice until thickened for best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for added warmth. You can also substitute some sugar with honey for a unique flavor twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store your homemade plum jam in sterilized jars in the fridge for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider canning it properly. For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best consistency, let your jam cool slightly before checking its thickness on a plate
Always use ripe plums; they yield more flavor and natural sweetness
Don’t skip sterilizing your jars; it prevents spoilage and keeps your jam fresh longer

I remember the first time I made homemade plum jam; my kitchen smelled heavenly, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it during brunch!

FAQ

How do I know when my homemade plum jam is ready?

The jam is ready when it passes the plate test and has thickened.

Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?

Yes, frozen plums can work well, just thaw them beforehand.

What can I use homemade plum jam for?

Use it on toast, in desserts, or as a glaze for meats to add flavor.

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📖 Recipe Card