There's nothing quite like the sweet and tangy taste of homemade jam, especially when it's made from fresh, juicy nectarines. This jam is actually super simple and easy to make! I'll even include some simple recipes you can use with your jam!
Nectarine Jam recipe and ingredients
Before we begin the process of making nectarine jam, let's go over the ingredients you'll need. The recipe for nectarine jam is relatively simple, and you can easily adjust the quantities based on how much jam you want to make.
Here's what you'll need:
- nectarines
- granulated sugar
- freshly squeezed lemon juice
- salt
- pectin
Optional ingredients:
- cinnamon sticks
Step-by-step guide on how to make nectarine jam
Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to start making your nectarine jam. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a delicious jar of jam in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the nectarines
Wash the nectarines thoroughly and remove the pits. Then, chop the nectarines into small pieces. You can leave the skin on or peel it off, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Cook the nectarines
Place the chopped nectarines in a large pot and add the sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves, and then turn up the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the pectin
Once the mixture has reached a boil, add the pectin and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. Continue to boil the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Test the jam
To test if the jam has reached the desired consistency, place a small amount of the mixture onto a chilled plate. Let it cool for a few seconds, and then push your finger through the jam. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready. If not, continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes and test again.
Step 5: Jar the jam
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly. Let the jars cool completely before storing them.
Tips for making the perfect nectarine jam
Making jam can be tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can ensure that your nectarine jam turns out perfectly every time.
1. Use ripe fruit: Make sure your nectarines are ripe but not overripe. Overripe fruit can result in a mushy jam.
2. Cut the fruit into small pieces: Chopping the fruit into small pieces will help it cook evenly.
3. Use the right amount of sugar: The amount of sugar you use can affect the consistency of your jam. Too much sugar can result in a hard jam, while too little sugar can result in a runny jam.
4. Stir constantly: Stirring the mixture constantly will help prevent the jam from burning.
5. Use a candy thermometer: Using a candy thermometer can help you monitor the temperature of the jam and ensure that it reaches the correct consistency.
How to store and preserve your nectarine jam
Now that you've made your nectarine jam, it's important to store it properly to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Here are a few tips for storing and preserving your nectarine jam:
- Store the jam in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Use sterilized jars and lids to ensure the jam stays fresh.
- Refrigerate the jam after opening.
- Use the jam within a year of making it.
Creative ways to use nectarine jam
Nectarine jam is delicious on its own, but it can also be used in a variety of ways. Here are a few creative ways to use nectarine jam:
- Spread it on toast or biscuits for a quick and easy breakfast.
- Use it as a glaze for meats such as chicken or pork.
- Mix it with cream cheese for a tasty dip. We think it would taste amazing if you substituted out the salsa for jam in our watermelon jicama salsa bruschetta.
- Use it as a filling for cakes or cookies.
- Drizzle it over ice cream or yogurt for a sweet treat.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some questions you might have about making nectarine jam:
Can I use frozen nectarines to make jam?
A: Yes, you can use frozen nectarines to make jam. Just make sure they are fully thawed before using them.
Can I use a different type of fruit to make jam?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of fruit to make jam. Just make sure to adjust the sugar and pectin accordingly.
Does the jam need to be refrigerated?
A: If the jam has not been opened, it can be stored in a cool, dry place. However, once it has been opened, it should be refrigerated.
I'm giving all the recipe love today to Claire from My Hobbie Lobbie. I'm highlighting Claire today as a member of the Secret Recipe Club. She has some amazing recipes and this one caught my eye to use up those nectarines staring at me from the counter.
Nectarine Jam
Equipment
- mason jar
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of ripe nectarines
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 package pectin
Instructions
- Wash the nectarines thoroughly and remove the pits. Then, chop the nectarines into small pieces. You can leave the skin on or peel it off, depending on your preference.
- Place the chopped nectarines in a large pot and add the sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves, and then turn up the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Once the mixture has reached a boil, add the pectin and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. Continue to boil the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- To test if the jam has reached the desired consistency, place a small amount of the mixture onto a chilled plate. Let it cool for a few seconds, and then push your finger through the jam. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready. If not, continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes and test again.
- Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly. Let the jars cool completely before storing them.
Philip
What a great, gorgeous looking preserve. One that I am sure would not last too long ?
sallybr
Fantastic color! I never had nectarine jam, it is definitely something my husband would appreciate... I don't have any experience making jams, so that could be a fun one to try
bcmom
My husband loves nectarines and eats them all summer as long as we can get them. I never thought to turn some into jam. I bet he would like that, too.
Karen @ Karen's Kitchen Stories
You are so fortunate to have such generous neighbors! This jam is so unique, and sounds fantastic!
Sarah
Yum. I love this time of year with the plethora of available produce for preserving! I've never had nectarine jam, but I'm sure it's delicious!
The Wimpy Vegetarian
I would love this!!! I have a whole bunch of nectarines - and this would be the perfect thing to cook up!! And what wonderful neighbors you have 🙂
Sid
Nectarine jam is wonderful. Good choice.
shockinglydelicious
Oh, I would LOVE to have neighbors like yours! Wonderful SRC pick!
Emily @ LIfe on Food
Bless sweet neighbors. I wish I could come live near you.
Miz Helen
Your Nectarine Jam looks delicious! Thanks so much for sharing with Full Plate Thursday today. Have a great day and come back soon!
Miz Helen
motherwouldknow
This jam sounds so delicious and easy. Nectarines are so plentiful here in the MidAtlantic US right now - a perfect way to use them and enjoy them into the cooler months of fall.