Making Jams & Jellies

How to Make Jam in Less Than an Hour

Making jam is actually pretty easy and only requires a few ingredients. Most jams need very few ingredients making them fast and simple to prepare. Our recipes are great for first-timers or seasoned cooks. Learn about just how easy it is to make gorgeous jams and get creative in the kitchen. You can make a big batch and give them out as gifts, or keep them all for yourself!

What You’ll Need for most of our recipes:

• ripe fruit
• sugar
• optional: fresh lemon juice, pectin
• pots or jars for bottling
• clean tea towel

Preparing Your Fruit
Depending on the type of fruit you’re using, you might need to chop it up into smaller pieces. If you’re using soft fruits like berries, you can leave them whole. If you’re using stone fruits like apricots or plums, remove the pits and cut the fruit into small chunks. Once your fruit is ready, measure out how much sugar you’ll need. For every cup of chopped fruit, you’ll want to use at least 1/2 cup of sugar. You can add more or less sugar depending on your taste preferences.

Making the Jam
There are two ways to make jam: with or without pectin. Pectin is a natural setting agent found in fruit that helps your jam to thicken and set quickly. If you’re using berries or other soft fruits that are high in pectin, you can make jam without adding any extra pectin. If you’re using fruits that are low in pectin like peaches, Bartlett pears or figs, you’ll need to add liquid pectin following the package directions.

Once your sugar is measured and your fruit is prepped, it’s time to start cooking! Add the sugar and fruit to a large pot over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and spoon into sterilized jars or bottles. Allow to cool completely before sealing with a lid. Your homemade jam will last for up to 6 months stored in a cool, dark place.

Homemade jam is not only delicious, but also pretty easy to make! With just a few ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you can have homemade jam that will last for months. Get creative in the kitchen and try different flavor combinations – the possibilities are endless!