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Easy and Irresistible Homemade Plum Jam – No Peeling, No Pectin Needed
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Plum Flavor
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
8
Prep Time
60 minutes
Cook Time
90 minutes
This “Easy and Irresistible Homemade Plum Jam” recipe delivers vibrant plum flavor without the fuss. With just a handful of simple ingredients—fresh plums, sugar, and lemon juice—and no need for peeling or added pectin, it’s a foolproof preserve. The process involves simmering the fruit until soft, sweetening it, and cooking until perfectly jammy. It’s ideal for slathering on toast, gifting, or baking, and optimized for SEO with keywords like “homemade plum jam,” “easy plum preserve,” and “no-pectin plum jam.”
Ingredients
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12 lbs sweet, ripe plums, rinsed, halved, and pitted
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4½ cups granulated sugar
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(Optionally) ½ cup lemon juice
Directions
Start by mixing halved, pitted plums with sugar in a large bowl, gently stirring until every piece is coated.
Let this sit for one hour to allow the fruits to macerate and release their juices.
Next, transfer the mixture to a large pot and bring it to a boil.
After boiling, lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Cool to room temperature, then repeat the boil–simmer cycle a total of four times; this extended cooking process deepens flavor and encourages thickening.
Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, transfer it carefully to sterilized jars, seal them, and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes to create a safe, long-lasting preserve.
Recipe Note
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to peel the plums?
No—keeping the skins on provides natural pectin and adds rich color and flavor
Can I skip the repeated boiling cycles?
You can do fewer cycles, but repeating helps thicken the jam and deepen flavor.
What happens if I add lemon juice?
Lemon juice helps balance sweetness and can aid in setting the jam.
How do I test if the jam is ready?
Use the “cold plate test”: drop a bit onto a chilled saucer, let sit, then push—it should wrinkle slightly.
How long will sealed jam last?
When processed properly, it lasts up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.
Can I reduce sugar if plums are sweet?
Yes—you can reduce sugar slightly, but be cautious—it also plays a role in preservation.
Can I freeze the jam instead of canning?
Absolutely—freeze portions in airtight containers for long-term storage.
Can I flavor the jam with spices?
Yes—flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, or cardamom can add delightful depth.
Do I need to sterilize jars?
Yes—properly sterilizing ensures safety and helps the jars seal correctly.
Can I make a small batch instead of 12 lbs?
Yes—scale the quantities accordingly and adjust cook time as needed.