Easy Plum Jam Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious way to capture the essence of summer in a jar, Easy Plum Jam is your answer. Bursting with the vibrant tart-sweet flavor of ripe plums, this jam is the sort of homemade treat that feels both nostalgic and irresistibly fresh. It’s astonishingly simple—no need for packaged pectin or complicated steps. With just plums, sugar, lemon juice, and a splash of water, you transform a humble harvest into a glossy, jewel-toned spread perfect for toast, yogurt, or a cheese board. Let me show you how effortless and rewarding it is to make Easy Plum Jam in your own kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Plum Jam:

  • 2 pounds ripe plums, pitted and chopped
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ¼ cup water

How to Make Easy Plum Jam

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Plums

Wash your plums thoroughly, then pit and chop them into small pieces. Don’t worry if a bit of the skin remains—it softens beautifully during cooking and adds vibrant color to your Easy Plum Jam.

Step 2: Combine and Heat

Add the chopped plums, sugar, lemon juice, and water to a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir everything together and set the pot over medium heat. As the mixture heats, the sugar will dissolve, and you’ll start to smell that sweet, fruity aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Once the mixture starts to bubble gently, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring often to keep anything from sticking. The plums will break down and the jam will thicken. If you prefer a super smooth jam, use a potato masher or immersion blender to puree the mixture to your liking.

Step 4: Test for Doneness

To make sure your Easy Plum Jam is perfectly set, grab a chilled plate and drop a small spoonful of jam on it. Let it cool for a moment, then run your finger through the puddle. If it leaves a clear line—the jam is ready!

Step 5: Jar and Seal

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool for a couple of minutes. Carefully ladle the jam into sterilized jars, leaving a bit of headspace. Seal tightly, and either store in the refrigerator or, for longer storage, process in a water bath canner. Now step back and admire those gorgeous jars of Easy Plum Jam!

How to Serve Easy Plum Jam

Garnishes

Dress up your Easy Plum Jam by sprinkling a pinch of lemon zest or a dusting of cinnamon right over the top. A few fresh plum slices on the side lend visual flair for brunch spreads or afternoon tea.

Side Dishes

This jam is glorious on buttery toast or warm scones, but don’t stop there—swirl it into Greek yogurt, spoon it over pancakes, or pair with tangy goat cheese for an effortless appetizer. It even jazzes up oatmeal on sleepy mornings!

Creative Ways to Present

Gift your Easy Plum Jam tucked into a basket with a crusty loaf and wedge of cheese, or spread some on puff pastry for quick homemade Danish pastries. Tiny jars make charming party favors or hostess gifts that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and sealed, keep your Easy Plum Jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to serve so you maintain that super-fresh flavor each time you open the jar.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze your Easy Plum Jam in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’ll stay perfect for up to 6 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge whenever you need a taste of sunshine.

Reheating

If you like your jam a bit runnier for drizzling, scoop some into a bowl and microwave for 10-15 seconds. Give it a stir and it’ll be silky smooth and spoonable in no time.

FAQs

Can I use less sugar in this recipe?

Absolutely! If your plums are naturally sweet, feel free to reduce the sugar a bit. Keep in mind that using less sugar might make the jam less thick and shorten its storage time, but the fresh fruit flavor will shine through.

Do I need pectin to make Easy Plum Jam?

Not at all! Plums have plenty of natural pectin, so you don’t need any store-bought packets. Just simmer and the jam will set beautifully on its own.

What’s the best way to pit plums quickly?

Slice plums all around the pit, twist the halves apart, then use your fingers or a spoon to pop out the stone. If they’re super ripe, the pit often slides right out.

How do I know if my jam is thick enough?

The chilled plate trick works wonders: put a little jam on a cold plate, let it cool, then drag your finger through it. If the line holds clear, your Easy Plum Jam is done!

Can I add spices or flavors?

Definitely—stir in a pinch of cinnamon, ground ginger, or a splash of vanilla right at the end for a new twist. The jam is totally customizable to your tastes.

Final Thoughts

You truly don’t need any fancy tricks to make a batch of Easy Plum Jam that tastes like it came from a cozy countryside kitchen. Grab a basket of ripe plums, give this quick recipe a whirl, and enjoy the delicious rewards on just about everything. You’ll never look at store-bought jam the same way again!

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