Plum jam recipe small batch

Plum jam is a delightful spread recipe. It is made from fresh plums simmered with sugar and lemon juice, resulting in a sweet, tangy, and rich flavor profile. The vibrant ruby-red hue of plum jam adds a lovely touch to breakfast tables and dessert platters alike. 

With its luscious consistency, plum jam is perfect for slathering on toast or swirling into yogurt for a refreshing snack. This Smooth Plum Jam recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, with no annoying lumps or bits of skin to get caught in your teeth!  

The flavor is simply divine, and with my clear, step-by-step instructions, anyone can make this small batch of homemade jam recipe in no time.

Benefits of Making Plum Jam at Home

There are numerous reasons to make this recipe  in the comfort of your kitchen:

• Fresh Ingredients: You control the quality of the plums used, ensuring optimal flavor.
• No Preservatives: Homemade jam is free from unnecessary additives and chemicals often found in store-bought varieties.

• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add spices like cinnamon or ginger to create unique flavor profiles.
• Satisfaction: The joy of crafting something delicious with your own hands adds a personal touch to your culinary repertoire.

Plum jam makes a delicious alternative to the more classic Strawberry or appricot Jam when piled onto homemade Plain or Fruited Scones with lots of clotted cream for a classic afternoon tea.

Ingredients needed for Small Batch Plum Jam

600 g fresh Plums : Choose plums that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. The skin of the plums adds depth to the flavor and beautiful color to the jam.

350 g Sugar :  This not only enhances sweetness of the recipe but also plays a pivotal role in the overall preservation of the jam, giving it a longer shelf life.

100 ml Water and 1 tsp Lemon Juice : It adds a delightful tang and helps with the gelling process thanks to its natural acidity. If you enjoy a zestier flavor, consider adjusting the quantity to your taste.

Pectin (optional) : While this recipe does not require added pectin—thanks to the natural pectin found in plums—it can be included if a firmer jam consistency is preferred. 

Equipment Notes for Smooth Plum Jam

Saucepan : A sturdy saucepan is an essential piece of equipment when making plum jam. It should be of medium size to allow for adequate space for the ingredients to cook down properly. Opt for something that heats evenly to prevent hot spots that could scorch the jam.

Wooden Spoon : A wooden spoon is highly recommended for stirring the jam. Unlike metal utensils, wooden spoons won't scratch your saucepan and provide a better grip, letting you mix ingredients thoroughly while cooking.

Mason Jars : For storage, Mason jars are perfect for preserving your homemade jam. They come in various sizes but start with small jars that can store a few servings. Just ensure they are clean and dry before filling.

Water Bath Canner (optional) : If you’re aiming for a longer shelf life and wish to can your jam, a water bath canner can be beneficial. This isn’t necessary for quick jam making, but it is great for sealing jars to keep your plum jam shelf-stable.

Discover More Homemade Jam Recipes

Here you’ll find all of my fabulous jam recipes in one easy place, my recipes are all written to make small batches but can easily be scaled up to make larger quantities. Featuring  kiwi plus some ideas how to use it.

Homemade Plum Jam instructions

Start by washing  fresh plums thoroughly. Once clean, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Then, chop each half into quarters.  In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the plums, water , sugar, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and an optional cinnamon stick. 

Cook over high heat, stirring continuously to dissolve the sugar. Once boiled, reduce the heat and simmer for about 12 minutes, stirring often. The aroma of cooking plums will fill your kitchen, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Blitz the fruit really well until as smooth as possible. I prefer to use a stick blender but you can use any blender or food processor. Sieve the puree back into the saucepan. Use a spatula to push the pulp through the sieve.

To test if the jam is ready, make a streak with your finger down the back of a jam-covered spoon. If the gap remains clear, your jam has achieved the perfect consistency. Should it still seem runny, simply continue to simmer for a few more minutes. 

Preservation and Storage instructions

Refrigerator Storage : For immediate enjoyment, store your plum jam in the refrigerator. Once cooled, seal it in a clean jar, and it will last up to three weeks. Simply scoop out a spoonful whenever you crave that sweet, tangy flavor!

Freezing Plum Jam : If you want to extend the shelf life even further, consider freezing the jam. Pour the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Your plum jam will maintain its quality for up to six months in the freezer, making it a delightful treat to enjoy later.

Variations and Flavor Additions

Cinnamon Plum Jam : For a warm and comforting touch, try making Cinnamon Plum Jam recipe . Simply add a cinnamon stick to the pot during cooking, allowing the spice to infuse into the fruit. The hint of cinnamon beautifully complements the sweetness of the plums and adds a cozy aroma that's perfect for chilly mornings.

Vanilla Plum Jam : Vanilla Plum Jam recipe  is another delightful option. Adding half a vanilla bean or a teaspoon of vanilla extract will create a luscious, aromatic spread. This delicious addition transforms ordinary toast into an extravagant treat, especially when accompanied by cream cheese or mascarpone!

Ginger Plum Jam : For those who crave a zesty kick, consider Ginger Plum Jam recipe. You can add fresh grated ginger in small amounts during the cooking process. This will impart a spicy warmth that balances the sweetness and brings an exciting twist to your jam. It's perfect swirled into yogurt or paired with savory dishes!

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast Ideas : Homemade plum jam is a versatile delight, especially when it comes to breakfast! It can elevate your morning routine in various ways:

• Spread it on buttered toast or bagels for a sweet start to your day.
• Swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of flavor.
• Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles to make your breakfast extra special, adding some fresh fruit alongside for a vibrant touch.

• Dessert Recipes : Plum jam can also be a delicious addition to your recipe repertoire. Here are a couple of ideas:Layer it in a parfait with vanilla yogurt and granola for a satisfying dessert.

Use it to fill a vanilla pound cake or as a topping for ice cream! Incorporate it into tarts or pastries for a fruity finishing touch, creating a delicious contrast to buttery crusts. This jam truly shines with endless serving possibilities!

Troubleshooting Common Issues of the recipe

Jam Not Setting : One of the most common issues encountered with homemade jam is that it simply doesn’t set as expected. If your jam remains runny even after the recommended cooling time, don’t fret! Here are some steps to consider:

• Wait it Out: Sometimes, it takes up to 48 hours for the jam to fully set. Storing a jar in the fridge can help firm it up.
• Reboil: If the jam is still unset after that time, spoon it back into a pot, add a bit of lemon juice (about a teaspoon per cup of jam), and cook until it re-thickens.

If you find your jam is too thin, whether due to insufficient cooking time or low acidity, there are remedies:

• Add Pectin: You can always reheat the jam and stir in some powdered pectin to help thicken it up.
• Serve as Sauce: If troubleshooting doesn’t work, consider rebranding your jam as a delicious sauce for ice cream or pancakes!

These easy fixes should help you enjoy your plum jam recipe and make the most of every batch you create!

Conclusion

Making plum jam is an enjoyable and straightforward process that brings together fresh plums, sugar, lemon juice, and optional spices. From washing and chopping the plums to simmering them until they thicken, the steps are quick and easy. 

Timing is key—allowing the jam to rest after cooking helps enhance its flavor. Don’t forget to test for consistency during cooking and patience is a virtue; sometimes it takes up to 48 hours for your jam to fully set!

Enjoying Homemade Plum Jam

Once ready, plum jam recipe can be relished in numerous ways. Spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or bake it into your favorite desserts. The vibrant flavors and delightful aroma will remind you of those sunny days in the orchard every time you take a bite!