We’ve always loved the sweet tang of fresh plums, but what if you could savor that summer essence all year long? Our freezer plum jam recipe offers a simple twist on traditional preserves, letting you capture ripe plums’ vibrant flavors with minimal effort and no fancy equipment.
It’s perfect for busy kitchens, as this no-cook method skips the boiling and sealing fuss. We’ll guide you through quick steps to create a batch that’s bursting with natural sweetness, ready to spread on toast or swirl into yogurt whenever you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients
To craft our freezer plum jam, we start with a selection of simple, high-quality ingredients that capture the vibrant, sweet-tangy essence of fresh plums. Below, we’ve organized them in the order they’re typically prepared and used, with precise measurements and prep notes for accuracy.
- 4 cups fresh plums, pitted and chopped (opt for ripe, juicy plums at their peak for the best natural sweetness and flavor, yielding about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (this amount ensures the perfect balance of sweetness to enhance the plums’ tartness without overpowering)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed (use fresh lemons for their bright acidity, which helps preserve the jam’s color and extends its freezer life)
Equipment Needed
We rely on a few essential tools to prepare our freezer plum jam quickly and safely, ensuring that every step from chopping to mixing is straightforward and efficient.
Tools for Preparation
For handling and combining our fresh plums, sugar, and lemon juice, we recommend the following items to keep the process smooth and precise:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface essential for chopping and pitting the plums without any mess.
- Sharp knife: Use a high-quality chef’s knife to slice through the plums easily, preserving their juicy texture for the best flavor outcome.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate tools like a 4-cup measure and 2-tablespoon spoon to portion out ingredients exactly as specified in our recipe.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious, heat-resistant bowl to combine all ingredients, allowing for thorough stirring without spills.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for gently mixing the plum mixture to maintain the fruit’s natural tartness and sweetness.
Tools for Freezing
- Freezer-safe jars or containers: Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or plastic containers rated for freezing, crucial for preventing freezer burn and maintaining the jam’s vibrant color and taste for up to 12 months.
- Labels and markers: Use waterproof labels to date and identify each jar, ensuring we track freshness and avoid confusion in our freezer.
- Funnel: A wide-mouthed funnel to transfer the jam into jars cleanly, reducing waste and making the process neat.
- Freezer bags (optional): Sturdy, zip-top bags as an alternative for smaller portions, allowing us to portion out the jam for easy access.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through creating our flavorful Freezer Plum Jam step by step. This no-cook method ensures a vibrant, tangy spread that preserves the natural essence of plums for year-round enjoyment.
Prepare the Plums
First, we start by washing 4 cups of fresh, ripe plums under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Next, we pit and chop the plums into small, even pieces—aim for about ½-inch chunks—to release their sweet, juicy aroma and ensure even mixing later. This step is crucial for achieving the jam’s smooth texture and bright color, so use a sharp knife on a stable cutting board to handle the plums efficiently.
Cook the Jam
Although this is a no-cook recipe, we “cook” the jam by combining the prepared plums with 2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. We stir the mixture vigorously with a spatula until the sugar dissolves completely, drawing out the plums’ natural juices to create a thick, glossy blend—envision the sweet-tangy scent filling your kitchen as the flavors meld. Let the mixture stand at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to thicken naturally without heat.
Cool and Freeze
Once the jam mixture has thickened, we transfer it into clean, freezer-safe jars or containers using a funnel for neatness—fill each one to about ½ inch from the top to allow for expansion. We let the jars cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes to set the texture, capturing the fresh, fruity essence before placing them in the freezer. Label the containers with the date and store for up to 12 months, ensuring our Freezer Plum Jam stays fresh and ready for your next meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our freezer plum jam even more convenient, we can prepare components in advance, allowing you to whip up a batch quickly when time is short. This approach ensures the fresh, vibrant flavors of ripe plums shine through while simplifying your kitchen routine. Let’s break down the key steps for effective make-ahead preparation.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend handling the fruit and other elements early to save time. Begin by washing and pitting your plums up to 24 hours in advance. Store the chopped plums in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their juicy, tangy sweetness. For the sugar and lemon juice mixture, combine them in a separate bowl and cover it tightly; this allows the flavors to meld slightly without fully dissolving until you’re ready to mix everything together.
- Plums: Wash, pit, and chop 4 cups of fresh plums, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 day.
- Lemon Juice: Squeeze and measure 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, storing it in a small jar in the fridge to preserve its zesty, bright acidity.
- Sugar: Measure out 2 cups of granulated sugar and keep it in a dry, cool place, ready for immediate use.
Batch Preparation Tips
If you’re planning to make multiple batches, we suggest scaling up efficiently. For instance, prepare double the ingredients and process them in stages to avoid overwhelming your workspace. This method not only streamlines the process but also lets you “capture the essence of summer” in several jars at once.
To track storage effectively, here’s a quick reference for freezer longevity:
| Item | Storage Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prepared Plum Mixture (before freezing) | Up to 24 hours in fridge | Keep covered to prevent oxidation and retain vibrant color and texture. |
| Fully Assembled Jam | Up to 12 months in freezer | Use freezer-safe jars; thaw in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours to enjoy the thick, spreadable consistency without compromising quality. |
| Thawed Jam | Up to 3 weeks in fridge | Always check for signs of spoilage, such as off odors, to ensure safety. |
Thawing and Serving Guidelines
When it’s time to enjoy your make-ahead freezer plum jam, we advise thawing one jar at a time to preserve freshness. Simply transfer a jar from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it sit for 8–12 hours; this gentle method restores the jam’s smooth, fruity spread perfectly for topping toast or stirring into yogurt. Remember to label each jar with the preparation date for easy tracking—our go-to hack for busy mornings.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple freezer plum jam recipe that brings summer’s best flavors to your table anytime
It’s a fuss-free way to preserve ripe plums without the hassle of traditional canning
Our method lets you whip up a batch effortlessly so you can savor that tangy sweetness on your favorite foods
Give it a try and make your meals a little more delightful year-round
Frequently Asked Questions
What is freezer plum jam?
Freezer plum jam is a simple, no-cook preserve made from fresh plums, sugar, and lemon juice that you can store in the freezer. It captures the sweet and tangy flavor of ripe plums, allowing you to enjoy summer tastes year-round without boiling or sealing jars. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or mixing into yogurt.
What ingredients do I need for freezer plum jam?
You’ll need 4 cups of fresh, pitted, and chopped plums, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Use ripe plums for the best flavor and fresh lemon juice to enhance tartness and preserve color. These high-quality ingredients ensure a delicious, vibrant jam.
How do I make freezer plum jam?
Start by washing and chopping 4 cups of plums. Mix them in a bowl with 2 cups of sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it thicken at room temperature, then transfer to freezer-safe jars. Cool, label, and freeze for up to 12 months. It’s a quick, no-cook process ideal for busy kitchens.
What equipment is required for freezer plum jam?
Essential tools include a cutting board, sharp knife for chopping plums, measuring cups and spoons, a large mixing bowl, and a spatula or wooden spoon. For freezing, use freezer-safe jars or containers, a funnel for easy pouring, waterproof labels, and optional freezer bags for portioning. These keep prep efficient and mess-free.
How long can I store freezer plum jam?
Once prepared, freezer plum jam can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months. The plum mixture can sit in the fridge for up to 24 hours before freezing. Always label jars with the date to track freshness, and thaw in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours when ready to use for the best quality.
Can I make freezer plum jam ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components in advance. Wash and pit plums up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Mix sugar and lemon juice separately if needed. For multiple batches, scale up ingredients and process in stages to save time while maintaining fresh flavor.
How do I thaw and use freezer plum jam?
Thaw jars in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours to keep the jam fresh and safe. Once thawed, use it on toast, in yogurt, or as a topping. Avoid refreezing after thawing to prevent texture changes, and always check for signs of spoilage before consuming. Proper labeling helps track preparation dates for optimal enjoyment.