Pumpkin Jam – Easy Recipe

When autumn rolls around, few things capture the season’s essence like a jar of homemade Pumpkin Jam. This delicious preserve is warm and comforting with earthy spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves — all beautifully balanced by the zesty brightness of orange juice. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to use leftover canned pumpkin or want to add a cozy twist to your breakfast routine, this pumpkin jam delivers all the fall flavors in a spreadable form. Even better, it’s simpler to make than traditional fruit jams and brings a delightful surprise to toast, biscuits, or yogurt.

Why This Pumpkin Jam Recipe Stands Out

This Pumpkin Jam recipe is more than just seasonal — it’s practical, versatile, and perfect for cozy meals. Unlike fruit-based jams that require hours of peeling and coring, this recipe uses canned pumpkin puree, saving you time without compromising taste. It’s also ideal for canning (via pressure canning) or freezing, making it a pantry staple year-round. With a silky texture and rich, spiced flavor, this jam is reminiscent of Amish pumpkin butter but with a slightly brighter twist thanks to orange juice. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s as great for holiday gifting as it is for spreading on your morning toast.

What You’ll Need for the Best Pumpkin Jam

• Pumpkin Puree: The heart of the jam — creamy and naturally sweet
• Sure Jell (Pectin): Helps the jam achieve that classic gel-like texture
• Orange Juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the earthy pumpkin
• Ground Ginger: Brings warmth and subtle spice
• Cinnamon: Essential for that classic fall flavor
• Nutmeg: Adds depth and complexity
• Cloves: A little goes a long way for aroma and warmth
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and preserves the jam, while aiding in gelling

Smart Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Fresh Pumpkin: You can roast and puree your own pumpkin if you prefer fresh over canned — just ensure it’s smooth and thick
• Lemon Juice for Orange Juice: Adds acidity, though the citrus flavor will be less sweet and more tangy
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you’re out of individual spices, use a pumpkin pie spice blend (about 2-3 teaspoons total)
• Low-Sugar Pectin: For those reducing sugar, use a low-sugar pectin and adjust sweetener to taste
• Maple Syrup: Swap part of the sugar for maple syrup for a rich, earthy undertone (though this may affect consistency slightly)

How to Make Pumpkin Jam from Scratch

1. Prep Ingredients: Measure all your ingredients before starting — this helps streamline the process and prevents the pumpkin from burning while stirring.
2. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the pumpkin puree, Sure Jell, orange juice, and all the spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves).
3. Initial Heating: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it starts to bubble. It may not reach a traditional rolling boil due to its thickness, but visible bubbling is the cue to continue.
4. Add Sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar thoroughly and continue stirring until fully dissolved.
5. Final Boil: Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil that can’t be stirred down. Once achieved, boil for 90 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid sticking.
6. Jar It Up: Remove from heat and ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars. Wipe the rims clean and secure with sterilized lids and bands.
7. Pressure Canning: Place the jars in a prepared pressure canner. Vent steam for 10 minutes, then close the vent and process at 10 pounds of pressure — 15 minutes for half-pints, 20 minutes for pints.
8. Cool and Store: Let pressure return to zero naturally before removing the lid. Allow jars to cool inside the canner or carefully place them on a towel-covered surface. After 24 hours, check seals and store or refrigerate any unsealed jars.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Jam Every Time

• Sterilize Everything: Sterilized jars and lids are essential for safe storage and longer shelf life
• Don’t Skip the Boil: The rolling boil ensures the pectin sets correctly and creates the jam-like texture
• Pressure Canning Only: Because pumpkin is low-acid, this jam must be pressure canned or stored in the refrigerator/freezer
• Watch for Burning: Stir constantly, especially after adding sugar — pumpkin puree can scorch easily
• Seal Check: After cooling, ensure jars are sealed by pressing the lid center. If it pops back, refrigerate and use within 2 weeks

Creative Ways to Enjoy Pumpkin Jam

• On Toast or Biscuits: A classic use — try it warm with a bit of butter
• With Cream Cheese: Spread over a bagel with a layer of cream cheese for a fall-inspired breakfast
• As a Dessert Topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or swirl into cheesecake
• Pumpkin Jam Tart: Use as a filling in mini tart shells for a quick and easy dessert
• Swirled in Yogurt or Oatmeal: Adds flavor, sweetness, and creaminess
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne for a surprising kick

Storage Note: If you’re not pressure canning, pumpkin jam must be refrigerated and used within 2 weeks. Alternatively, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.

Seasonal, Homemade Goodness with Health in Mind

Pumpkin Jam is not just a treat — it’s rich in nutrients like vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants thanks to the pumpkin base. By controlling sugar levels and using real spices, this recipe allows you to enjoy a naturally wholesome spread with minimal additives. Making jam from scratch also avoids preservatives and artificial ingredients often found in store-bought versions. Whether you enjoy it during fall or make it year-round, it’s a beautiful way to nourish and indulge.

Wrapping Up: A Spoonful of Fall in Every Jar

Whether you’re spreading it over warm toast, spooning it into oatmeal, or gifting it during the holidays, Pumpkin Jam brings the comforting flavors of fall into your kitchen all year long. Its creamy texture, rich spices, and citrus brightness make it an irresistible addition to your homemade preserves. And with simple ingredients and a no-fuss method, this pumpkin jam recipe is approachable for beginners and satisfying for seasoned canners alike.

The beauty of this jam is in its versatility — tweak the spice blend, adjust the sweetness, or even infuse with vanilla for a custom twist. Just remember to store it safely (by pressure canning or freezing), and you’ll have a jar of cozy flavor ready whenever the craving hits. Give it a try, and make this Pumpkin Jam a new seasonal favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Jam

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes: These rich, spiced cheesecakes blend apple cinnamon filling with a buttery crust — perfect for fans of cozy fall desserts like pumpkin jam. The crumble topping adds texture and warmth similar to traditional autumn preserves.
• Lemon Lavender Cookies: Delicate and citrusy, these cookies offer a bright flavor profile that complements the citrus notes in pumpkin jam. Ideal for afternoon tea or as a thoughtful edible gift alongside your homemade spread.
• Cinnamon Roll Cake: This dessert captures the essence of classic cinnamon rolls in a simple cake form. With its swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar, it pairs perfectly with the spice-rich notes of pumpkin jam.

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