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Easy Small-Batch Plum Jam Recipe No Pectin Needed Perfect for Beginners

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A simple, small-batch plum jam recipe that requires no commercial pectin, perfect for beginners and made with just a few wholesome ingredients. This jam balances sweet and tart flavors with a rustic texture and natural thickness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ripe plums, washed, pitted, and chopped
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pit and chop about 1 pound (450g) of ripe plums into roughly ½-inch (1.25 cm) pieces. Do not peel the plums.
  2. Place the chopped plums, ½ cup (100g) sugar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons water in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add cinnamon stick if using.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring every few minutes to break down the fruit and encourage even cooking. The jam is ready when it thickens and coats the back of a spoon like a loose syrup.
  5. Test the set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and tilting it. If it holds shape without running, it is done; if not, simmer longer and test every 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract if using, once off the heat.
  7. Spoon the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼-inch (0.6 cm) headspace. Seal tightly and let cool at room temperature. Store in the refrigerator once cooled.

Notes

Do not skip the lemon juice as it activates natural pectin and helps the jam set. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Use the plate test to check jam set. For smoother jam, mash fruit gently during cooking. Jam can be cooked in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours as an alternative method. Store refrigerated and use within 3 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: plum jam, small-batch jam, no pectin jam, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe, homemade plum jam, fruit preserves

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/easy-small-batch-plum-jam-recipe-no-pectin-needed-perfect-for-beginners/