Plum Cherry Jam Recipe Easy to Make and Delicious

There’s something truly magical about homemade jams—the burst of fresh fruit flavor, the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, and the comforting texture that reminds us of simpler times. If you love plums and cherries, this plum cherry jam recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Combining the rich, juicy sweetness of ripe cherries with the slightly tangy, luscious plums, this jam offers a delightful twist that works wonderfully on toast, scones, or even as a topping on desserts.

Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think, requiring just a handful of ingredients and simple steps to create a jar of pure deliciousness.

Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or a curious beginner, this recipe will guide you through each stage to ensure your jam sets perfectly and tastes incredible. You’ll love the fresh, vibrant color, the balance of flavors, and the satisfaction of making your own preserves.

So grab your fruit, and let’s dive into a jam-making adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This plum cherry jam recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses fresh, seasonal fruit, ensuring a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that store-bought jams just can’t match.

The combination of plums and cherries creates a complex yet harmonious taste—plums bring a gentle tartness while cherries add rich sweetness.

Second, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. It doesn’t require any special pectin or additives, relying on natural fruit pectin and a touch of lemon juice to help it set beautifully.

Plus, it comes together in under an hour, meaning you can enjoy your homemade jam without a long wait.

Finally, this jam is wonderfully versatile. Use it as a spread for your morning toast, swirl it into yogurt, add a spoonful to oatmeal, or even incorporate it into baking recipes for an extra burst of fruity goodness.

Ingredients

• 500g fresh plums (pitted and chopped)
• 500g fresh cherries (pitted)
• 750g granulated sugar
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for depth)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Fruit masher or potato masher (to break down fruit)
• Sterilized glass jars with lids (for storing jam)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth (optional, for smooth jam)
• Jam thermometer (optional but helpful for accuracy)

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit: Wash the plums and cherries thoroughly. Pit both fruits carefully, then chop the plums into small pieces. Place the fruit in your large saucepan.
2. Mash the fruit: Using a fruit masher or potato masher, gently crush the plums and cherries to release their juices. This helps the fruit cook down evenly and release natural pectin.
3. Add sugar and lemon: Stir in the granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps the jam to set by activating pectin in the fruit.
4. Cook the jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally.
5. Check the consistency: To test if your jam is ready, 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 set. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
6. Add optional spices: If using cinnamon or vanilla extract, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an added depth of flavor.
7. Pour into jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and let cool to room temperature.
8. Store and enjoy: Refrigerate the jam if you plan to consume it within a few weeks, or process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to preserve for several months.

Tips & Variations

“Always sterilize your jars to ensure your jam stays fresh and safe to eat. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle.”

Tip: If you prefer a smoother jam, use a blender or food processor to puree the cooked fruit slightly before pouring it into jars. For chunkier texture, mash less thoroughly and skip blending.

Variation Ideas:

• Add a handful of fresh mint or basil leaves towards the end of cooking for a refreshing herbal twist.
• Swap out sugar for honey or maple syrup, but note this may affect the set and shelf life.
• Mix in a splash of red wine or brandy during cooking for a gourmet flavor boost.

For more delicious homemade preserves and jams, check out our Clean Eating Breakfast Vegetarian Recipes for Every Morning for fresh ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on exact fruit ripeness and sugar used.

Serving Suggestions

This luscious plum cherry jam is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Spread on warm toast or freshly baked scones for a delightful breakfast.
• Swirl into plain or vanilla yogurt for a fruity twist.
• Use as a filling for cakes, pastries, or thumbprint cookies.
• Top pancakes or waffles for a homemade breakfast treat.
• Add a spoonful to oatmeal or porridge to naturally sweeten and flavor.
• Pair with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese on a charcuterie board.

If you love experimenting with fruit spreads, you might also enjoy our Best Vegan Chocolate Recipes for Decadent Desserts or try a fresh salad to accompany your jam breakfast like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

Making your own plum cherry jam is a wonderfully rewarding way to preserve the vibrant flavors of summer fruit. This recipe provides a straightforward, foolproof method to create a beautifully textured, delicious jam that brightens up any meal or snack.

The natural tartness of plums combined with the sweet depth of cherries makes every spoonful a treat.

Not only does homemade jam taste better than store-bought, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and artificial flavors. Plus, sharing your homemade jars with friends and family is a heartfelt gift that everyone will appreciate.

Whether you’re spreading it on bread, adding it to desserts, or mixing it into your breakfast bowl, this plum cherry jam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

For more easy and delicious recipes to complement your homemade jam, don’t forget to explore our collection of Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals and Active Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy and Energized Living.

Happy cooking and jam making!

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