Pumpkin Jam
The first time I made Pumpkin Jam, I was captivated by the vibrant color and sweet aroma that filled my kitchen. It was fall, and the air was filled with the crisp scent of changing leaves, making it the perfect season to indulge in this delightful spread. As I cut into the fresh pumpkin, memories of cozy family gatherings flooded my mind. I could imagine friends and family sitting around the table, spreading this golden goodness on warm bread, drizzling it over pancakes, or simply enjoying it straight from the jar. Every bite of homemade Pumpkin Jam is like a hug in a jar, bringing warmth and joy to any breakfast or snack.
Recipe Snapshot
45 mins
15 mins
30 mins
Medium
150 kcal
1 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
0 g
Food Processor, Oven, Frying Pan, Blender, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon
Why This Pumpkin Jam Hits Different
Unique Flavor Profile
One of the reasons I love Pumpkin Jam is its unique flavor. It’s not just sweet but carries the warm and earthy notes of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These flavors meld beautifully with the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, creating a spread that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s unlike any store-bought jam, bursting with freshness that only comes from homemade goodness.
Seasonal Delight
This jam is the epitome of fall. The rich orange hue and spices make it a visual delight, evoking the warmth of the season. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the bounty of autumn harvests. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but feel the spirit of the season, enhancing every breakfast table it graces.
Versatile Uses
Pumpkin Jam isn’t just for toast. It can be used in a variety of ways—from filling for pastries to a topping for yogurt or ice cream. You can even use it in savory dishes like glazes for roasted meats. Its versatility means it can shine in both sweet and savory contexts, making it a valuable addition to your pantry.
Healthier Choice
Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s a healthier alternative to many sugary spreads. Made from simple ingredients like fresh pumpkin, sugar, and citrus juice, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, you can control the amount of sugar you add, making it as sweet or as subtly flavored as you prefer.
Preservation of Fall Flavors
Making Pumpkin Jam is a wonderful way to preserve the flavors of fall. When the pumpkin season rolls around, I make several batches to enjoy year-round. It’s a reminder of crisp autumn days when winter comes knocking, allowing me to savor those seasonal tastes long after the leaves have fallen.
Family Tradition
This recipe has been passed down through my family, making it even more special. Each time I make it, I think of my grandmother who introduced me to the joys of canning and creating homemade gifts. Sharing jars of Pumpkin Jam with friends and family has become a cherished tradition, spreading love and sweetness beyond my kitchen.
Pumpkin Jam Ingredients
Creating the perfect Pumpkin Jam is all about the quality of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the best flavors. The star of this recipe, of course, is the baking pumpkin, which provides a rich, natural sweetness. Combined with sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and a hint of salt, the flavors balance beautifully. A touch of vanilla adds depth, making each spoonful simply irresistible!
- 2 pounds (900g) baking pumpkin, split, seeds removed, and cut into 5-inch (12cm) pieces: The main ingredient, providing a rich, sweet flavor and a smooth texture.
- 1 1/3 cups (265g) sugar: Balances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and helps in the preservation process.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice: Adds bright acidity and enhances the depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Further brightens the jam and helps preserve its freshness.
- Pinch of salt: Elevates all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise: Infuses a warm, aromatic quality that enhances the sweetness of the jam.
Step by Step Guide for Pumpkin Jam
Making Pumpkin Jam is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas. Follow these steps to create a delicious jar of jam that you can enjoy or share with loved ones. It’s easier than you might think, and the rewards are oh-so-sweet!
- Start by placing the pumpkin pieces in a steamer basket set inside a pot. Pour enough water into the pot so it reaches just below the bottom of the steamer basket. Turn on the heat and cover the pot, steaming the pumpkin until it’s fully cooked—this usually takes around thirty minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a paring knife can easily pierce the flesh.
- Once the pumpkin is cooked, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly until it’s safe to handle. Now, scrape the tender flesh from the skin and transfer it to a food processor or an immersion blender. Blend until smooth; you should aim for about two cups of pumpkin puree. If using a food mill or potato ricer, ensure you have a fine, smooth texture.
- Next, grab a heavy-duty saucepan and add the pumpkin puree to it. Along with the puree, add the sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Take the vanilla bean and scrape the seeds into the pot, then toss in the split bean itself for extra flavor.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently. Keep an eye on it until the sugar completely dissolves. This process is crucial as it prevents the jam from burning.
- Continue cooking the mixture, stirring constantly. The pumpkin puree will become thicker, and splattering is common, so consider wearing an oven mitt to protect yourself. You’ll want to stir until the mixture visibly thickens and can hold its shape when heaped up.
- After about ten minutes, when the consistency is right, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully scrape the jam into a clean jar while it’s still warm. The Pumpkin Jam is best served at room temperature, allowing all those beautiful flavors to come through.
- Finally, let the jam cool completely before sealing it with a lid. If you’re planning to store it, place the jar in the refrigerator, where it can last for at least a month. Enjoy it with your favorite breakfast items or share it as a homemade gift!
Things Worth Knowing
- Choosing the Right Pumpkin: Select a baking pumpkin, often smaller and sweeter than carving pumpkins. Look for firm specimens with a deep orange color.
- Steam vs. Boil: Steaming the pumpkin preserves its nutrients and flavor better than boiling.
- Texture Check: Ensure the pumpkin is fully cooked before mashing; undercooked pumpkin will result in a grainy jam.
- Preservation Tips: Properly sterilize your jars to extend the shelf life of your Pumpkin Jam.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a more complex flavor profile.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Pumpkin Jam turns out perfectly, here are some valuable tips. Each step matters, and these pointers can help you achieve that homemade perfection.
- Storage: Keep the jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the fridge to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze Pumpkin Jam in airtight containers for up to six months. Just thaw in the fridge before using.
- Pairing: This jam pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses, making a gorgeous cheese platter.
- Gift Idea: Consider gifting Pumpkin Jam in decorative jars for the holidays. It makes a heartfelt present!
- Taste Test: Always taste the jam as it cooks to adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking.
What to Pair With Pumpkin Jam
When it comes to enjoying Pumpkin Jam, there are countless ways to enhance your experience. Here are some delightful pairings that beautifully complement its flavors.
- Warm Bread: Spread Pumpkin Jam on freshly baked bread or toast for a comforting breakfast.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a sweet twist.
- Cheese Platters: Serve alongside creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an exquisite appetizer.
- Seasonal Desserts: Drizzle over cakes or muffins to elevate your fall desserts.
- Sandwiches: Add a spoonful to turkey or ham sandwiches for an unexpected burst of flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
Pumpkin Jam is truly a delightful spread that encapsulates the warmth and flavors of fall. It brings a touch of sweetness to any breakfast or snack and can be cherished all year round. I encourage you to try making it at home; the process is simple, and the results are absolutely rewarding. You’ll find it’s a wonderful addition to your kitchen, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Pumpkin Jam
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the pumpkin pieces in a steamer basket in a pot. Add water to the pot so it reaches to the bottom of the steamer basket and steam the pumpkin pieces until completely cooked through; a paring knife will pierce the flesh easily and it will take about 30 minutes. During the steaming, add more water to the pot if necessary.
- When the pumpkin is cool enough to handle, scrape the flesh from the skin and puree it in a food processor or immersion blender, or pass it through a food mill or potato ricer. You should have about 2 cups (535g) of puree.
- Put the puree in a heavy-duty saucepan along with the sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and salt. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean with a small knife and add them to the pot, along with the bean.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking the pumpkin mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the puree from burning. Because the puree is thick, it'll tend to splatter. You may wish to wear an oven mitt while stirring.
- When the jam mixture visibly thickens and it holds its shape in a jelly-like mound when you heap it up onto itself, it's done. It will take about ten minutes. Scrape the mixture into a clean jar. The jam is best served at room temperature. It can be refrigerated for at least one month.
Notes
- Storage: Keep the jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the fridge to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze Pumpkin Jam in airtight containers for up to six months. Just thaw in the fridge before using.
- Pairing: This jam pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses, making a gorgeous cheese platter.
- Gift Idea: Consider gifting Pumpkin Jam in decorative jars for the holidays. It makes a heartfelt present!
- Taste Test: Always taste the jam as it cooks to adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking.
