The good news is this delicious Apple Plum Jam recipe is vegan, nut-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and egg-free.
This delicious jam combines the natural sweetness of plums and apples with a range of toasted spices. This combination produces the ideal spread because the fruits are well-balanced and flavorful. This type of fruit jam is classified as a high-acid food, so it is unlikely to become contaminated with anything toxic when processed correctly.
Homemade jam is quite easy to prepare and tastes amazing; it can evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort reminiscent of the jams enjoyed during childhood or on special occasions. Making jam at home can be a fun and creative process. You have complete control over the quality and type of ingredients used, especially the amount of spices you add.
When we were kids, eating thick custard mixed with jam was the norm; it was the perfect combination and still is on our top list today.
What’s To Love?
💕 Plums provide a rich, deep flavor, while the apples add a touch of tartness.
💕 Adding spices brings warmth and depth to the jam, creating a comforting and cozy sensation when eating it. They don’t overpower the natural sweetness of the fruits. Instead, they work harmoniously to elevate the overall taste of the jam.
💕 The spice combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves produces a real Christmas taste.
💕 Can be made in advance and stored for months.
💕 Adding lemons is a good choice; they provide a bright, citrusy note that complements the sweetness of the two fruits and, of course, prevents browning.
Have you already tried Apple Plum Jam? If so, let us know how it was…we can’t wait to hear all about it!
Let’s Talk Ingredients
We feel every ingredient adds to the overall taste and texture; if you remove one, it’s like you’ve removed them all.
- Plums — for best results, use ripe plums.
- Apples — the best apples for jam-making are Pink Lady because they’re sweet.
- Sugar — we use caster sugar with pectin.
- Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice — use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Spices — used ceylon cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; the combination gives a real Christmas taste.
- Water — is needed to soften the jam.
For more detailed ingredients, see the recipe card.
Customizations
Here are some foodie alternatives should you want to make some changes:
- Plums — we suggest using damsons as an alternative to plums.
- Apples — we suggest pears are a great alternative.
- Sugar — using sugar without pectin is not recommended as it may not set properly.
- Lemons — oranges are an excellent alternative to lemons. Always use fresh, never use concentrated.
When substituting ingredients, it’s essential to remember that the jam’s taste, texture, and overall result might differ, particularly if you’re substituting many ingredients.
If you have made the Apple Plum Jam with any customizations, we’d love to hear about it; please message us in the comments.
Instructions – Overview
Execution for making the jam is moderately simple; the hardest part is waiting for it to cool. Here’s a breakdown of how to get started on your journey (more detailed instructions are in the recipe card):

▶︎ Prepare the fruits by washing them thoroughly. Then, pit and chop the plums, and peel, core, and chop the apples. You can adjust the chop size based on your preferred chunkiness.
▶︎ In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped plums and apples. Add the sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and spices to the pot. Mix everything well, then let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes.
▶︎ Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Stir frequently to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the jam simmer, continuing to stir occasionally. Do the crinkle test to check the jam is ready – see crinkle test.
▶︎ When fully cooked, mash the fruit with your hand blender to leave it smooth or at any desired consistency you prefer. Then, pour it into sterilized jam jars. Place a disc of parchment paper on the top of the jam to help preserve them, then place the lids on the jars. Refrigerate.
Making jam can be fun and creative, so don’t hesitate to adapt the recipe and methods to suit your taste and preferences. You can make seriously delicious jams that can be enjoyed in various desserts or as a delightful spread.
For more detailed instructions, notes, and ideas…see the recipe card.
Tools You’ll Need
Want to make the best Apple Plum Jam? Using the correct equipment for preparation is essential; we think they’re a big helping hand. We understand that you might already have some of these kitchen tools to make this recipe, or you might want to use other tools and may not require our recommendations. Here are some of our suggestions to get you started:
- Saucepan – to cook the jam.
- Jam Jars – to store the jam.
- Citrus Juicer – to cook the lemons.
- Stick Blender – to blend the jam smoothly.
- Silicone Spatula – for stirring and incorporating all the ingredients smoothly.
- Weighing Scales and Measuring Spoons – to measure the ingredients accurately.
- Grater – to grate the lemon zest.
- Parchment Paper – adding discs to the jars after the jam is cooked is optional.
If you love those gadgets for this recipe, then you’ll love these beautiful saucepans for making your jam. They’re our go-to for many of our recipes, and we think every budding chef needs them.

Induction-ready Stellar Stainless Steel Pans have a thick ‘hot-forged’ base, even heat distribution, the highest quality 18/10 stainless steel, high straight sides, premium stainless steel cast handles, oven-safe handles, time-saving internal measuring guides, dishwasher safe, oven safe up to 240°C, and a lifetime guarantee.
Check out our favorite kitchen equipment that we love to use with all our recipes.
Homemade vs. Commercial?
▶︎ Homemade jams often have a special quality that commercial products might lack. Careful attention to making the jam can contribute to its appeal and deliciousness.
▶︎ Making jam from scratch can be a rewarding and creative process, giving you a sense of accomplishment.
▶︎ When making jam at home, you have complete control over the quality and type of ingredients used. This can lead to a healthier and more customized product.
▶︎ Homemade jams allow experimentation with unique flavor combinations that might not be available in commercial options.
▶︎ Since you’re making the jam yourself, you can avoid or minimize using artificial preservatives, which can be a healthier choice.
▶︎ You can control the texture of homemade jam to your liking, resulting in a chunkier or smoother consistency according to your preference.
Sterilizing Jars
Before you start, you’ll need to sterilize the jars. Pour boiling water into the jars and lids and let them sit until you’re ready to use them. Because they’ll be very hot, use a cloth or kitchen tongs to hold the jar and lid when removing the water.
NOTE: If the jars and lids aren’t dry in time, pop them in the oven, preferably the fan oven, to dry them off for a few minutes. Never use a tea towel, as they can carry germs.
For more details on sterilizing and canning jams or other foods, check out our informative article on the Canning Process To Preserve Foods!
Crinkle Test
Pop a couple of saucers in the freezer before cooking the jam. Test the jam by placing a tsp on the saucer. The jam will crinkle when a finger or wooden spoon is pushed through it.
Storing
See our FAQs for detailed instructions on storing, refrigeration, freezing, and defrosting and for answers to readers’ questions.
Do you have a question? If so, let us know in the comments and we’ll reply within 24-48 hours and add your question to our FAQs if relevant.
Pairing
Here are some suggestions and our favorite go-to’s what to eat with the jam:

▶︎ Apple Plum Jam can be spread on toast, jam sandwiches, bagels, pancakes, muffins, and similar foods.
▶︎ It can also be used as a topping for desserts, such as custard, yogurt, or cheeses.
▶︎ Spread it over our Keto Bread Loaf and enjoy a cup of coffee or your favorite tea.
Whatever you decide to eat it with, it will taste great!
More Recipes
Here are some other delicious recipes that we think you might also like:
Thank you for checking out Apple Plum Jam!
We hope you enjoy making and eating it! Let us know how you get along, and please rate using the ⭐️ by the comments. HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest for all of our latest updates. Happy Baking!
⭐️ Quick Tip: Read the recipe in its entirety before you start. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand. Voila…you’re all set to go!

Equipment
Ingredients
- 500 grams Plums
- 500 grams Apples
- 900 grams Jam Sugar
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp Ground Ceylon Cinnamon
- ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
- ¼ tsp Ground Cloves
- 300 ml Water
Instructions
Making The Jam
- Prepare the fruits by washing the plums and apples thoroughly. Pit and chop the plums, and then peel, core, and chop the apples. You can adjust the size based on your preferred chunkiness in the jam.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped plums and apples.
- Add the sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves into the pot. Mix everything well.
- Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This helps the fruits release their juices and flavors.
- After 30 minutes, place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
Note: Use the back of a wooden spoon to press down the apples. - Reduce the heat to low and let the jam simmer, continuing to stir occasionally. As the fruits cook down, they release more juice, and the mixture thickens.
- Place a small spoonful on a chilled plate to test if the jam is ready. If it crinkles and holds its shape when you push it with your finger, it's done. If not, continue cooking and test again after a minute or two.
- Mash the fruit with your hand blender to leave it smooth or at any desired consistency you prefer.
- When your jam is ready, pour it into sterilized jam jars. Ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
- Place a disc of parchment paper on the top of the jam – optional.
- Wipe the jar rims to ensure they are clean, then place the lids on the jars.
Note: The jam can be made ahead of time and without canning, they’ll keep in the fridge in an airtight container for about 2-3 days. - Refrigerate and enjoy your jam.
Sterilizing Jars
- Put the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes to seal and cool.
- Carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a clean towel. Allow them to cool completely.
Note: If the jars and lids aren’t dry in time, pop them in the oven, preferably the fan oven, to dry them off for a few minutes. Never use a tea towel. - Once the jam is cooked, pour into the jars.
- Place a disc of parchment paper on top of the jam, then lid the jars.
Canning Your Jam:
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the jars from the water bath when slightly cooled. Place them on a clean towel to cool. You may hear the lids pop as they seal.
- After the jars have cooled, press down on the center of each lid. If it doesn't pop back, the jar is sealed. If it does pop back, refrigerate the jar and use it within a few weeks.
- Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Label the jars with the date and type of jam.
Note: You can expect about two years of shelf life when stored in a cool, dry place.
Notes
- For more details on sterilizing and canning jams or other foods, check out our informative article on the Canning Process To Preserve Foods!
- For the best taste, use ripe, flavorful plums and apples. Ripe fruits have a higher natural sugar content, contributing to the jam’s overall sweetness.
- If you only have plums, then use double the quantity.
- Once the jam is opened, always use a clean spoon to serve.
- Carefully measure and balance the spices. Start with the suggested amounts in the recipe, and you can adjust them slightly to your taste, keeping in mind that the flavors will intensify as the jam cooks and matures.
- The lemon zest and juice provide a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness of the fruits and spices. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; never use concentrated forms.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer a portion of the cooked mixture to a blender and pulse until the desired consistency is reached. Add the blended portion back to the pot and mix well.
If you’re using pectin to help your jam set, choose a high-quality pectin. - Allow the jam to cool and set properly before testing its final consistency and flavor. As it cools, the jam will thicken further.
- The jam can be made ahead of time, and without canning, it can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for about 2-3 days. You can expect about two years of shelf life when canning and when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Label the jars with the date of preparation. This will help you keep track of the jam’s freshness and shelf life.
- The servings for this recipe are based on an average because it’s difficult to be exact. We have, therefore, rounded the serving quantity to 20.
- Use fresh or even organic ingredients for a better taste.
- Why not put on your apron and start making the most of the fruits you find or buy? We suggest using damsons as an alternative to plums and pears instead of apples.
Feel free to swap any ingredient listed with whatever you have lying around. It will probably taste just as amazing! Please let us know how it was…we can’t wait to hear all about it!
See our FAQs below for detailed instructions on storing, refrigerating, freezing, defrosting, and answering readers’ questions.
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FAQ’s & Troubleshooting
By addressing these FAQs and troubleshooting tips, you can overcome common challenges and create a delicious batch of Apple Plum Jam every time.
Your Questions Matter
Do you have a question? If so, let us know in the comments and we’ll reply within 24-48 hours and add your question to our FAQs if relevant. If you don’t already follow us, head over to our Twitter or Facebook to keep up to date with all our new recipes and articles.
For food safety top tips, check out USDA.gov.

have you already tried this Delicious Spiced Apple Plum Jam? if so, let us know how it was…we can’t wait to hear all about it! For more yum recipes subscribe to our newsletter!

Sharon – Foodie Blogger
I’m a full-time food blogger, mother of 3 grown adults and 3 huskies. Most days you can find me in the kitchen creating new recipes, I love cooking indulgent bakes and love sharing them. I am lucky to connect with and inspire people from all around the world and help you on your cooking journey so you can eat in style!
This worked exactly as written, thanks!
We’re very pleased about that, ty for letting us know.