Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin?

Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin with canned pumpkin puree if you're short on time. Just make sure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that may alter the recipe’s flavor and texture.

How do I know when the pumpkin jam has reached the right consistency?

The jam is done when it’s thick and spreadable. To test, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it holds its shape without running, it's ready. This is a key step in ensuring your Homemade Pumpkin Jam sets correctly.

Can I preserve this jam using traditional canning methods?

Absolutely! For long-term storage, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for at least 10 minutes, making sure they are sealed properly. This allows your Homemade Pumpkin Jam to be shelf-stable for up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place.

Homemade Pumpkin Jam: A Cozy Fall Spread Bursting with Flavor

Description

Homemade Pumpkin Jam is a cozy, spiced fall preserve made with fresh pumpkin, citrus, and warm spices. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for spreading on toast, gifting during the holidays, or using in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 cups of pumpkin puree)
1 ½ cups sugar
½ cup water
1 medium orange (zested and juiced)
1 cinnamon stick
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

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Instructions

Peel the sugar pumpkin, remove seeds, and cut into cubes. Steam or boil for 15–20 minutes until tender. Mash into a smooth puree (yielding about 2 cups).
In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon stick, ginger, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Stir in vanilla extract and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
Transfer the hot jam to sterilized jars and seal tightly. Allow to cool before refrigerating, or use canning methods for long-term storage.

Notes

Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Use lemon or lime zest instead of orange for a citrus twist.
Add chopped pineapple for a tropical variation.
Canned pumpkin puree can be used instead of fresh—just make sure it’s 100% pumpkin.
For long-term storage, process jars using water bath canning.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Preserves
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 45
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg