This Jamie Oliver Plum Jam recipe is a delightful way to preserve the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh plums. Made with just three simple ingredients, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or gifting to loved ones.
What is Jamie Oliver Plum Jam?
Plum jam is a classic fruit preserve made by cooking fresh plums with sugar and a touch of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. Jamie Oliver’s method simplifies the process while ensuring a rich, glossy jam-packed with the natural flavor of ripe plums.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Made with just plums, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Easy to make: No fancy equipment or pectin is needed.
- Deliciously versatile: Use it on toast, scones, or in baking.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add spices like cinnamon or vanilla.
- Perfect for gifting: A thoughtful homemade treat for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver Plum Jam
- 1kg fresh plums, halved and pitted
- 800g granulated sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or jam pan
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars with lids
- Jam thermometer (optional)
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Plum Jam
- Prepare the Plums: Wash the plums thoroughly, then halve and pit them.
- Cook the Plums: Place the plums in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and 100ml of water. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the plums soften and release their juices.
- Add the Sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar until it dissolves completely. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Jam: Reduce the heat to a steady simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Check for Setting Point: Use a jam thermometer to check when the mixture reaches 105°C (220°F), the setting point for jam. Alternatively, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready.
- Sterilize the Jars: While the jam cooks, sterilize your jars by washing them in hot soapy water, rinsing well, and placing them in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F) for 10 minutes.
- Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top. Seal immediately with lids while still hot.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver Plum Jam
- Toast or scones: A classic breakfast or tea-time pairing.
- Yogurt or porridge: Swirl it in for a fruity twist.
- Cheese platter: Perfectly complements sharp cheeses.
- Desserts: Use as a filling for cakes, pastries, or tarts.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Jamie Oliver Plum Jam
- Use ripe plums: They provide the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Adjust the sugar: For a tangier jam, reduce the sugar slightly, but note that this may affect shelf life.
- Add flavorings: Experiment with cinnamon, vanilla, or ginger for a unique twist.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Slow cooking helps concentrate the flavors and achieve the perfect consistency.
- Label the jars: Include the date and type of jam for easy identification.
How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Plum Jam?
- Room temperature: Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Refrigerate: Once opened, keep the jar in the fridge and use within 3-4 weeks.
Nutrition Value (per tablespoon):
- Calories: 50
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.5g
FAQs
How do I know when the plum jam is ready to set?
Plum jam is ready to set when it reaches 105°C (220°F) on a jam thermometer. Alternatively, you can test by placing a small amount of jam on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it has reached the setting point.
Can I make plum jam without added sugar?
Yes, you can make a lower-sugar plum jam by using less sugar or substituting with a natural sweetener like honey. However, the reduced sugar may affect the jam’s shelf life and texture, as sugar acts as a preservative.
How long does homemade plum jam last?
Unopened jars of plum jam stored in a cool, dark place can last up to 1 year. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 weeks.
Do I need to peel the plums for jam?
No, there’s no need to peel the plums for jam. The skin breaks down during cooking and adds flavor, texture, and natural pectin, which helps the jam set.
Final Words
This Jamie Oliver Plum Jam Recipe is a fantastic way to capture the flavor of fresh plums in a jar.
Try it today and enjoy the taste of homemade goodness!
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Jamie Oliver Plum Jam Recipe – Sweet, Tangy, and Homemade
Plum jam is a classic fruit preserve made by cooking fresh plums with sugar and a touch of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. Jamie Oliver’s method simplifies the process while ensuring a rich, glossy jam-packed with the natural flavor of ripe plums.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 jars 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 1kg fresh plums, halved and pitted
- 800g granulated sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Plums: Wash the plums thoroughly, then halve and pit them.
- Cook the Plums: Place the plums in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and 100ml of water. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the plums soften and release their juices.
- Add the Sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar until it dissolves completely. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Jam: Reduce the heat to a steady simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Check for Setting Point: Use a jam thermometer to check when the mixture reaches 105°C (220°F), the setting point for jam. Alternatively, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready.
- Sterilize the Jars: While the jam cooks, sterilize your jars by washing them in hot soapy water, rinsing well, and placing them in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F) for 10 minutes.
- Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top. Seal immediately with lids while still hot.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place.