If you adore the idea of capturing the vibrant flavors of ripe blood plums and transforming them into a luscious preserve, then this Slow Cooker Plum Jam recipe is absolutely for you. This jam showcases how effortlessly the natural sweetness and jewel-like color of plums can be intensified using a slow cooker, requiring minimal hands-on time but delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re a jam-making newbie or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this recipe invites you to savor the comforting, deep fruitiness you can enjoy year-round.

Slow Cooker Plum Jam Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Plum Jam is straightforward yet essential. Together, they bring balance, brightness, and that perfect jammy texture, making this recipe truly shine.

5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) blood plums: The star of the show, bringing rich color and sweet-tart flavor.
4.4 lbs (2 kg) sugar: Provides the sweetness that enhances the plums’ natural depth and ensures great preservation.
Zest and juice of one lemon: Adds a zingy brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
1/2 cup (120 ml) water: Helps the fruit break down gently without drying out the jam.
1.76 oz (50 g) pack of Jamsetta (optional): Perfect if you prefer a thicker, spreadable texture with ease.

How to Make Slow Cooker Plum Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Plums

Start by quartering the blood plums and removing every last stone. This step is key for both texture and safety, as no one wants a surprise pit in their jam! Plus, cutting the fruit into manageable pieces helps it cook evenly in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, toss the quartered plums into your slow cooker along with sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and water. This combination sets the foundation for flavor, with the sugar drawing out the plums’ luscious juices and the lemon brightening the entire mix.

Step 3: Cook on High

Set the slow cooker to high and let the fruit and sugar mingle for 3 hours with the lid on. Give it a stir every now and then to prevent the jam from sticking to the sides. This cooking phase softens the plums and starts the transformation into that dreamy jam consistency.

Step 4: Cook on Low

After the initial cooking, switch the slow cooker to low and remove the lid. Let the jam simmer for another hour, stirring occasionally. This allows excess liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate beautifully.

Step 5: Blend the Mixture

Decide your preferred texture: blend the mixture until smooth for a classic jam or pulse briefly if you want to keep some delightful chunks of plum. It’s your jam, your call!

Step 6: Optional – Thicken with Jamsetta

If you’re aiming for a thicker, more traditional jam consistency, mix half the Jamsetta pack with some pureed fruit and stir it back into the slow cooker. This simple step thickens the jam without overpowering the delicate fruit flavor.

Step 7: Bottle the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, ensuring no drips on the jar rims to guarantee a perfect seal. This moment is always so rewarding — a jar full of sunshine ready to brighten your day.

Step 8: Seal and Store

Seal your jars tightly and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Store your Slow Cooker Plum Jam in a cool, dark spot, where it will patiently wait to transform your breakfasts and snacks into something truly special.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Plum Jam

Garnishes

Adding a sprig of fresh mint or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of your Slow Cooker Plum Jam toast or dessert can elevate the flavors and make it look as delightful as it tastes. Fresh herbs accentuate the jam’s brightness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This jam pairs wonderfully with breakfast staples like warm buttered toast, fluffy pancakes, or creamy yogurt. It also brightens up savory cheese boards, balancing sharp or salty cheeses with its sweet-tart complexity.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic spread by swirling Slow Cooker Plum Jam into oatmeal or smoothie bowls, spooning it over vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert, or even glazing roasted meats for a surprising fruity touch. The possibilities are endless and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once opened, store your jam jars in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It should stay vibrant and tasty for up to a month, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it in different ways.

Freezing

If you have more jam than you can use before it spoils, freezing is a fantastic option. Transfer the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and use within six months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

When you want to enjoy your Slow Cooker Plum Jam warm, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave briefly just until warmed through. Stir occasionally to keep the texture silky and avoid scorching.

FAQs

Can I use other types of plums for this jam?

Absolutely! While blood plums give vibrant color and a rich flavor, other plum varieties will also work well. Just keep in mind that sweetness and cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use Jamsetta?

No, Jamsetta is optional and only needed if you want a thicker jam. Without it, your jam will be slightly looser but still wonderfully delicious and spreadable.

How long does Slow Cooker Plum Jam last?

Unopened and properly sealed jars can last up to a year stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it is best consumed within a month for optimal taste and safety.

Can I reduce the sugar amount?

You can reduce sugar slightly, but keep in mind it plays a role in preservation and texture. Too little sugar may affect the jam’s shelf life and set.

What if my jam doesn’t thicken?

If your jam is too runny, continue cooking with the lid off to evaporate more liquid, or add Jamsetta as suggested. Blending less can also keep it chunkier but may not thicken it enough.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about making your own Slow Cooker Plum Jam—a jar full of sunshine and love that tastes like a celebration of fresh fruit any time of year. I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen. So grab those plums, turn on your slow cooker, and get ready to create your new favorite jam!

Slow Cooker Plum Jam Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 21 reviews

This Slow Cooker Plum Jam recipe captures the rich, sweet-tart flavor of blood plums, slowly simmered to create a luscious homemade jam. Utilizing a slow cooker makes the process easy and hands-off, resulting in a smooth, vibrant jam perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts. The addition of lemon zest and juice enhances the plum’s natural brightness, and an optional pectin pack can be added for a thicker consistency.

Author: lina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 jars (250 ml each) 1x
Category: Preserves, Jam
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) blood plums, quartered and pitted

Other Ingredients

4.4 lbs (2 kg) sugar
Zest and juice of one lemon
1/2 cup (120 ml) water
1.76 oz (50 g) pack of Jamsetta (optional, for thicker jam)

Instructions

Prepare the Plums: Cut the blood plums into quarters, making sure to remove all the stones to avoid bitterness and ensure a smooth jam texture.
Combine Ingredients: Place the quartered plums, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and water into the slow cooker. Stir gently to mix all ingredients well.
Cook on High: Set the slow cooker to high heat and cook with the lid on for 3 hours. Stir occasionally during this time to prevent the mixture from sticking to the sides or bottom.
Cook on Low: After 3 hours, switch the slow cooker setting to low and cook uncovered for an additional hour. Continue stirring occasionally to help reduce excess liquid and thicken the jam.
Blend the Mixture: Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the plum mixture to your preferred consistency. For a smooth jam, blend thoroughly; for chunkier texture, blend less.
Optional – Thicken with Jamsetta: If you want a thicker jam, mix half of the Jamsetta pack with some of the pureed fruit, then stir this mixture back into the slow cooker. Cook briefly to allow it to thicken.
Bottle the Jam: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, filling them to just below the rim. Avoid spills on the jar rims to ensure good seals.
Seal and Store: Seal jars tightly while hot and let them cool completely at room temperature. Store the cooled jars in a cool, dark place. The jam can be refrigerated or processed for longer shelf life if desired.

Notes

Ensure all jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
You can adjust the sugar amount slightly depending on the sweetness of the plums.
If using Jamsetta or any pectin, follow package instructions for best results.
The jam will thicken further as it cools.
Store opened jam in the refrigerator and consume within 3 weeks.
This jam is delicious on toast, yogurt, or as a dessert topping.