If you have a soft spot for spreads that capture the sweetness of summer with a touch of cozy spice, then this Homemade Plum Jam with a Hint of Cinnamon Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine the rich, juicy flavor of ripe plums balanced perfectly with the gentle warmth of cinnamon, all transformed into a luscious jam that feels like a warm hug on a spoon. It’s fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly simple to make, bringing a lovely homemade touch to your breakfast table or tea time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delightful jam. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s bringing the natural sweetness, adding zest to balance the flavors, or helping the jam achieve that perfect, spreadable texture.
- 2 pounds ripe plums, pitted and chopped: The star of the show, ripe plums provide juicy sweetness and beautiful color—choose varieties that are deeply colored and fragrant for the best results.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps with the preservation and gel formation, giving your jam that signature shine and thickness.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a natural pectin boost, which supports setting the jam while balancing sweetness with a hint of tang.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): An aromatic note that complements the plums perfectly, providing subtle warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon pectin (optional, for quicker setting): If you’re eager for your jam to thicken faster, pectin is a handy helper to get there.
How to Make Homemade Plum Jam with a Hint of Cinnamon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Plums
Start by washing your plums thoroughly. Pit and chop them into small pieces so they release their delicious juices evenly as you cook. Having the plums chopped finely ensures a consistent texture in your jam, creating that perfect balance between smooth and chunky.
Step 2: Combine Fruit and Sugar
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine your chopped plums with the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir everything well and allow the mixture to sit for about 30 minutes. This rest time helps the fruit draw out its natural juices and allows the sugar to dissolve, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
Step 3: Cook the Jam
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add the ground cinnamon here if you’re using it—that little sprinkle transforms the aroma and depth of the jam beautifully. If you have pectin, stir it in at this point according to the package instructions. Continue cooking for about 30-40 minutes until the jam thickens and reaches a gel-like consistency when tested on a cold plate.
Step 4: Test and Jar Your Jam
Test your jam by dropping a spoonful onto a chilled plate—if it wrinkles slightly when pushed with your finger, it’s ready. Remove the pot from heat, ladle the jam into sterilized jars while hot, and seal immediately. Leave the jars upside down for 10 minutes to seal and then right side up to cool completely.
How to Serve Homemade Plum Jam with a Hint of Cinnamon Recipe
Garnishes
This jam shines wonderfully when paired with some fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. These simple garnishes add a burst of color and that extra hint of fresh flavor that complements the warm cinnamon beneath.
Side Dishes
Spread it thick on buttered toast, swirl it into creamy yogurt, or serve alongside soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese. This jam also makes a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board, where its sweet-tart profile adds a delicious contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by folding it into pancake or waffle batter before cooking, or dollop it on top as a vibrant sauce for ice cream or cheesecake. You can even use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies or baked pastries, creating delightful surprises in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, keep your jam refrigerated and use it within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and freshness. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination, helping your batch last longer and stay delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save your Homemade Plum Jam with a Hint of Cinnamon Recipe for later, freezing is a great option. Transfer the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, and it will keep well for up to six months. Thaw in the fridge before use.
Reheating
When you want that freshly made warmth, gently reheat your jam in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until heated through; avoid boiling again to preserve the fresh fruit flavor and best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen plums to make this jam?
Absolutely! Frozen plums work well and are especially convenient when fresh plums are out of season. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery jam.
Is cinnamon necessary in this recipe?
Cinnamon is optional but highly recommended as it adds a lovely warm note that elevates the natural sweetness of the plums, making the jam taste uniquely comforting and flavorful.
How long does the jam take to set without pectin?
Without pectin, it may take 30 to 40 minutes of simmering to reach the perfect set. Be patient and do the plate test to know when it’s done, as timing can vary depending on plum ripeness and juice content.
What’s the best way to sterilize jars before filling?
Boil your jars and lids in water for 10 minutes before filling with hot jam to ensure they’re properly sterilized and safe for storing your homemade preserve.
Can I adjust the sweetness in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce or increase the sugar slightly according to your preference. Keep in mind that sugar acts as both sweetener and preservative, so balancing is key to both taste and shelf life.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly rewarding about making your own Homemade Plum Jam with a Hint of Cinnamon Recipe. The way it captures the essence of ripe plums with a cozy touch of cinnamon makes it a true treasure for your kitchen. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it on desserts, or gifting it to loved ones, this jam brings joy, warmth, and pure deliciousness. Dive in and let this recipe become a cherished staple in your home!
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Homemade Plum Jam with a Hint of Cinnamon Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 3 half-pint jars 1x
Description
This homemade plum jam recipe transforms ripe plums into a sweet and tangy spread that’s perfect for toast, pastries, or as a topping for desserts. With simple ingredients and optional spices, it offers a delightful way to preserve the fresh flavor of summer plums.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe plums, pitted and chopped
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pectin (optional, for quicker setting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Plums: Wash, pit, and chop the ripe plums into small pieces to ensure even cooking and easy mashing during jam making.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped plums, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon if using. Stir well to distribute the sugar evenly over the fruit.
- Cook the Jam: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If using pectin, add it according to package instructions at this point. Reduce heat to medium and simmer the jam for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and reaches the desired jam consistency. Continue to stir occasionally to avoid scorching.
- Test for Setting: To test if the jam is set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is ready. If not, continue simmering and test again every few minutes.
- Jar the Jam: Once set, remove the pot from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace. Seal the jars immediately.
- Cool and Store: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator. The jam will thicken further as it cools. Consume within a few weeks or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the plums and your taste preference.
- Adding cinnamon is optional but adds a warm spice note to the jam.
- Pectin helps the jam set faster but is not required if you prefer a more natural jam.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- Store opened jam in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
