Pumpkin Jam Recipe: A Sweet Fall Treat
Looking for a cozy, autumn-inspired treat? This pumpkin jam recipe is perfect for the season, offering a sweet, spiced flavor that combines the richness of pumpkin with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s an ideal spread for toast, biscuits, or even to give as a thoughtful homemade gift. Let’s dive into making this delicious marmellata di zucca, with easy-to-follow steps and tips to help you along the way.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin | 1 kg |
| Lemon | 1 |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2 grams |
| Sugar | 350 grams |
| Amaretto Liqueur (optional) | 60 ml |
Nutritional Information
Each serving of pumpkin jam provides a sweet and slightly spiced treat. The exact nutritional breakdown depends on the amount used per serving, but here’s a general estimate:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal (1 tbsp) |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Sugars | 18 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient specifics and serving size.)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pumpkin
Start by preparing the pumpkin. Peel it and remove the seeds. Once you’ve cleaned it, cut the pumpkin into small cubes, about 1-2 cm in size. This ensures the pumpkin cooks evenly and breaks down into a smooth texture once it’s done.
Step 2: Macerating the Pumpkin
Transfer the pumpkin cubes into a large pot or mixing bowl and sprinkle the sugar over them. Stir gently to coat the pumpkin evenly. Cover the pot or bowl and let the pumpkin and sugar mixture sit for at least 12 hours (preferably overnight). This step, called maceration, allows the flavors to meld and helps release the natural juices from the pumpkin.
Step 3: Cooking the Jam
After the maceration time has passed, add the ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and the zest of the lemon into the pumpkin mixture. If you’re using amaretto liqueur, pour it in now as well. This will add a subtle, nutty flavor to the jam. Stir everything together and place the pot on the stove over low heat. Let it simmer gently for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Sterilizing Jars
While your pumpkin jam is simmering, it’s important to prepare the jars and lids. Sterilize them by boiling the jars and lids in a large pot of water for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that your jam will last longer and stay safe for storage. Be sure to handle the jars carefully once sterilized, as they will be hot.
Step 5: Testing the Jam’s Consistency
To check if the jam is ready, take a small spoonful and place it on a cold plate. Let it cool for a minute, then run your finger through the jam. If it wrinkles slightly and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready to jar. If it’s still too runny, continue simmering the jam for a bit longer.
Step 6: Jar the Jam
Once the jam has thickened to your liking, carefully spoon it into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. This helps prevent the jam from overflowing during storage. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a proper seal. Place the lids on and screw them on tightly, but not too tight.
Step 7: Sealing the Jars
To ensure the jam is properly sealed, you can process the jars by placing them in a large pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes. This will create a vacuum seal, which helps preserve the jam for a longer shelf life.
Step 8: Cooling and Storing
Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once they’re cool, check that the lids have sealed properly. If the lid is slightly concave and doesn’t make a popping sound when pressed, it’s sealed correctly. Store your pumpkin jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within a few weeks.
Tips and Variations
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as ginger or cloves to personalize your pumpkin jam.
- Liqueurs: While Amaretto is optional, other flavored liqueurs like rum or brandy can be used to enhance the depth of flavor in the jam.
- Sweeteners: If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the white sugar with honey or maple syrup. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Storage: If you plan to make larger batches or want to gift the jam, ensure that your jars are well-sealed and stored in a cool, dark place for best preservation.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin jam is a perfect way to celebrate the fall harvest. With its warm spices and rich flavor, it’s ideal for spreading on warm toast or using as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. Whether you’re making it to enjoy yourself or to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to bring warmth to your kitchen and your taste buds.
Enjoy this pumpkin jam recipe, and remember to check back on Love With Recipes for more delicious, seasonal treats!
