Description
This Homemade Lemon Jam is a tangy, sweet, and delightfully zesty spread that’s perfect for toast, pastries, or as a unique addition to desserts. Made with fresh lemons, sugar, and water, it’s an easy and rewarding recipe that captures the vibrant flavor of citrus in every jar.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 lemons (zest of 3 lemons, 1 lemon chopped)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups extra water for boiling lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Zest:
Grate the zest of 3 lemons into a small bowl, making sure to avoid the white pith. - Juice One Lemon:
From one of the zested lemons, squeeze out 2 tablespoons of juice and set aside. - Chop the Lemon:
Chop 1 whole lemon (with the peel on) or slice it thinly into strips or rings for added texture in the jam. - Remove Bitterness from the Zest:
Place the grated zest and chopped lemon pieces into a pot. Pour 1 cup of water over them and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, then strain.
Repeat this process once more to ensure the zest is free from excessive bitterness. - Cook the Jam:
Return the strained lemon zest and pieces to the pot. Add sugar, the reserved lemon juice, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. The mixture will be slightly runny but will thicken as it cools. - Store the Jam:
Once cooled, transfer the jam to a clean, airtight jar. Store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and zest quality.
- Adjust the sugar if you prefer a sweeter jam.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking or burning.
- If the jam seems too runny, cook it for a few extra minutes, but remember it thickens as it cools.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American