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Benjamin

Best Homemade Lemon Jam Recipe for Fresh, Zesty Flavor

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 lemons zest of 3 lemons, 1 lemon chopped
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups extra water for boiling lemon zest

Method
 

Prepare the Lemon Zest:
  1. Grate the zest of 3 lemons into a small bowl, making sure to avoid the white pith.
Juice One Lemon:
  1. From one of the zested lemons, squeeze out 2 tablespoons of juice and set aside.
Chop the Lemon:
  1. 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:
  1. 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.
  2. Repeat this process once more to ensure the zest is free from excessive bitterness.
Cook the Jam:
  1. 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:
  1. 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.

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