My parents have a large plum tree which overhangs into their garden from their neighbours. This year there have been masses of plums and as their neighbours don’t want them I have delighted in taking them off their hands. I tried this plum and vanilla jam out as a small batch initially as I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, how it would set and if it would taste good. Then obviously I regretted it as it was soooo good.

I am off to collect more today to make jars for family and friends.

This is the simplest recipe, it doesn’t use jam sugar or pectin but instead uses granulated sugar and lemon juice. I also added vanilla which adds another flavour dimension.

Easy Plum & Vanilla Jam

You wil need:

350g chopped plums

200g granulated sugar

1.5 tbsp of lemon juice

1 tsp vanilla paste or extract

Combine all of your ingredients in a saucepan, mix well and simmer over a medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves then leave to bubble and thicken. You can test if its ready by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate and playing in the freezer for a minute or two and check the consistency then. If it isn’t thick enough continue on a medium heat until you are happy with the texture.

Do let me know if you try it.