Three Fruit Jam
A vibrant and flavorful homemade jam combining the sweet and tart notes of pears, peaches, and apples. Perfect for spreading on toast or using as a topping, this fruit jam offers a delightful blend of natural fruit sweetness with a hint of lemon and pectin for a perfect gel. Ideal for breakfast or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped pears, peaches, apples, and lemon juice in a 4-quart saucepan.
- Cook, stirring until the fruit is almost tender.
- Stir in sugar, Sure-Jell, butter, and food coloring.
- Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
- Boil for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and skim off foam.
- Ladle into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2-inch space at the top.
- Seal with paraffin.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jam, you can blend the fruit before cooking. If fresh fruit isn't available, frozen chopped pears, peaches, and apples work well, but adjust cooking time as needed. For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. To ensure your jam sets properly, use the recommended amount of Sure-Jell and check the expiration date.
Serving Suggestions
This Three Fruit Jam is delightful spread on warm toast or pancakes. It also pairs beautifully with Peanut Butter Crunch for a classic sandwich. Try it as a topping for vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a simple dessert. Explore more American recipes for great breakfast ideas or dessert pairings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and use within three weeks. To reheat, simply warm the jam gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring often to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Fruit Jam contains roughly 494 calories, with 3g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different fruits in this jam?
Absolutely! You can substitute other fruits like berries or plums, but adjust the sugar and cooking time as necessary. Just ensure the fruit is similar in water content for best results.
How do I know when the jam is set?
To test the jam's consistency, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it's ready. If not, cook a few minutes longer and test again.
Is it necessary to use paraffin for sealing?
While sealing with paraffin is traditional, you can also use canning lids for a more secure seal. Ensure your jars are sterilized and follow proper canning methods to keep your jam fresh longer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).