Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam With Honey And Citrus

I remember the first time I tasted fresh jujubes, their subtle sweetness was an instant win, and I knew I had to preserve that magic. Transforming them into Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus fills my kitchen with the most inviting, warm aroma, a true taste of home. This vibrant, easy-to-make spread is perfect for busy families and health-conscious cooks seeking a unique, wholesome homemade treat. Harvest season offers a bounty, ideal for capturing their goodness. Our straightforward method turns humble fruit into a treasured pantry staple, brightening any day.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Why They Matter)

Gathering the right ingredients is key to success. This simple list focuses on fresh, quality items that make all the difference in your homemade Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus.

Core Ingredients for Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam

• Fresh Jujube Fruit: 4 cups (about 500g) pitted and roughly chopped. The star, offering natural sweetness and a unique apple-like texture. Look for firm, unblemished fruit.
• Good Quality Honey: 1/2 cup (120ml). Provides natural sweetness and a lovely floral depth. Choose local if possible (or use organic maple syrup for a different flavor).
• Fresh Citrus (Lemons & Oranges): Zest and juice from 1 large lemon and 1 large orange (about 1/4 cup/60ml each). Offers essential pectin for setting, bright acidity, and a zesty flavor punch (bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is much better).
• Water: 1/2 cup (120ml). Helps soften the jujubes and starts the cooking process gently.

Optional Boosters & Swaps

• Pectin (Optional): 1 pouch (approx 45g) fruit pectin. Ensures a firmer set, helpful if fruit isn’t very ripe.
• Cinnamon Stick or Star Anise: 1 stick or 2 pods. Adds a warm, aromatic layer to your Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. A hint at the end elevates the flavor.
• Sugar-Free Sweetener Alternative: To taste. For a low-sugar option, adjust carefully.

How to Make Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam Step by Step

I often adjust the sweetness for my family; a touch more honey makes this Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus extra kid-friendly on pancakes. A simple tweak makes a big difference.

1. Prep Jujubes: Wash 4 cups (500g) fresh jujube fruit, pit, and roughly chop them. This takes about 15 minutes; the fruit will soften as it cooks.
2. Initial Simmer: In a heavy-bottomed 4-quart pot, combine chopped jujubes, 1/2 cup (120ml) water, citrus juice, and zest. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer 20-30 minutes until very soft.
3. Smooth (Optional): For extra smooth Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus, use an immersion blender right in the pot until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Sweeten: Stir in 1/2 cup (120ml) good quality honey and any optional spices, like a cinnamon stick, to the fruit mixture.
5. Thicken: If using, add 1 pouch (45g) fruit pectin according to package directions. Continue simmering, stirring frequently, for 15-25 minutes until the Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus thickens and coats a spoon.
6. Test for Set: Drop a teaspoon of hot jam onto a chilled plate. After 30 seconds, push it with your finger; if it wrinkles, your jam is ready.
7. Jar It Up: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized half-pint (250ml) jars, ensuring you leave 1/4 inch (0.6cm) headspace at the top.
8. Store Properly: Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for shelf-stability. Or, cool completely and refrigerate for immediate use. Jam too runny? Simmer longer or add a bit more pectin to your Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus.

Best Ways to Enjoy Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam

Everyday Delights

• Spread generously on toast, English muffins, or alongside pancakes and waffles.
• Stir a spoonful into Greek yogurt or morning oatmeal for natural sweetness and flavor, making for easy high-protein meals.
• A gourmet addition to cheese boards, pairing beautifully with creamy cheeses.

Special Occasions & Gifts

• Elevate your holiday spread with this unique homemade jam.
• Jarred Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus makes a thoughtful, edible present.
• A wholesome, fruit-based spread for peanut butter sandwiches or rice cakes, perfect for gluten-free snacks.

Perfect Pairings

• Beverages: Black tea, sparkling water with a splash of jam, or a classic mimosa.
• Baked Goods: Fill tarts, thumbprint cookies, or use as a glaze for pastries.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam

This jam uses honey for a more wholesome sugar profile, contributing to healthy recipes for dinner as a condiment or side. Jujubes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, while citrus adds a healthy dose of Vitamin C.

Jujubes are known for their fiber content, promoting gut health. The honey and citrus balance the fruit for a satisfying, nutrient-rich addition to any meal, fitting perfectly into family meal prep ideas.

How This Recipe Solves Common Needs

This jam offers a distinct, gourmet-like taste using often-overlooked fruit. This Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus truly stands out.

It’s a healthier homemade option where you control ingredients and sweetness for a more wholesome spread compared to store-bought, perfect for healthy eating. From breakfast to baking to gifts, this Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus fits many needs, enhancing family meal prep ideas.

Expert Pointers and Smart Variations

Cooking Tricks for Perfect Jam

• Sterilize Jars Properly: Essential for shelf-stable jam. Use a boiling water bath or hot dishwasher cycle.
• Achieving the Right Set: Use the cold plate test (chill a small plate, drop a teaspoon of hot jam, wait 30 seconds, then push with your finger; if it wrinkles, it’s ready).
• Don’t Overcook: Jujubes can caramelize quickly, so stir frequently and monitor temperature.

Adjustments for Family & Diet

• Kid-Friendly Smoothness: For a super smooth Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus, pass the cooked fruit through a food mill or fine-mesh sieve before adding honey. Sometimes, when I’m making this for my little ones, I’ll give the jam a quick pulse with an immersion blender right in the pot to get it extra smooth – it’s a great family-friendly tweak!
• Lower Sugar Option: Reduce honey or use a natural sugar substitute, adjusting pectin as needed.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a different aromatic profile.

Common Questions About Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam

Q: Can I freeze Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus for later?

A: Yes, absolutely! Once cooled, transfer jam to freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving headspace, and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator. This is excellent for meal prep recipes.

Q: What’s the healthiest way to make sweet jujube fruit jam?

A: To make it healthiest, use less added sweetener, rely on the natural sweetness of ripe jujubes, and consider a sugar substitute. Maximize citrus for natural pectin. This helps achieve healthy eating goals.

Q: Which ingredients are best for meal prepping sweet jujube fruit jam?

A: For meal prepping, ensure you use fresh, firm jujubes. High-quality honey and fresh citrus will provide the best flavor and setting for your Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus.

Q: How long does homemade sweet jujube fruit jam last?

A: Properly canned and sealed, sweet jujube fruit jam can last for a year in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, it will keep for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use dried jujubes for this jam recipe?

A: While fresh is best, you can use dried jujubes. You’ll need to rehydrate them first, and the flavor profile of the Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus will be more concentrated and less tart.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh citrus?

A: Bottled lemon juice can be used for acidity, but for the best flavor and pectin, fresh zest and juice are highly recommended for your Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus. I find the brightness of fresh citrus truly makes the flavors sing.

Conclusion

Crafting your own Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus is a rewarding experience, offering unique flavor and wholesome goodness in every jar. I love having this for quick meals and healthy snacks – pin this recipe now for delicious family dinners!

Sweet Jujube Fruit Jam with Honey and Citrus

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• Author: Jusmira Rayne
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 3 half-pint jars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This vibrant, easy-to-make spread is perfect for busy families and health-conscious cooks seeking a unique, wholesome homemade treat. It transforms fresh jujubes into a delightful jam with honey and citrus, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh jujube fruit, pitted and roughly chopped (500g)
• 0.5 cup good quality honey (120ml)
• Zest and juice from 1 large lemon (0.25 cup)
• Zest and juice from 1 large orange (0.25 cup)
• 0.5 cup water (120ml)
• 1 pouch fruit pectin (45g), optional
• 1 cinnamon stick or 2 star anise pods, optional
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
• Sugar-free sweetener alternative, to taste (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prep Jujubes: Wash 4 cups (500g) fresh jujube fruit, pit, and roughly chop them.
2. Initial Simmer: In a heavy-bottomed 4-quart pot, combine chopped jujubes, 0.5 cup (120ml) water, citrus juice, and zest. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer 20-30 minutes until very soft.
3. Smooth Jam (Optional): For extra smooth jam, use an immersion blender right in the pot until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Sweeten Mixture: Stir in 0.5 cup (120ml) good quality honey and any optional spices, like a cinnamon stick, to the fruit mixture.
5. Thicken Jam: If using, add 1 pouch (45g) fruit pectin according to package directions. Continue simmering, stirring frequently, for 15-25 minutes until the jam thickens and coats a spoon.
6. Test for Set: Drop a teaspoon of hot jam onto a chilled plate. After 30 seconds, push it with your finger; if it wrinkles, your jam is ready.
7. Jar It Up: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized half-pint (250ml) jars, ensuring you leave 0.25 inch (0.6cm) headspace at the top.
8. Store Properly: Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for shelf-stability. Or, cool completely and refrigerate for immediate use.

Notes

If jam is too runny, simmer longer or add a bit more pectin. Adjust sweetness for personal or family preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Simmering, Canning
• Cuisine: General

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15 g)
• Calories: 50 calories
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 2 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: jujube jam, fruit jam, honey, citrus, homemade, easy, pantry staple, preserve, sweet, wholesome