Pumpkin Pie Jam is the perfect way to embrace the autumn season year-round. With the warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and pumpkin pie spice, this jam captures the essence of pumpkin pie in a jar. It’s an easy-to-make, delightful spread that pairs wonderfully with toast, cheese, or as an ingredient in your baking recipes. Whether you’re using up leftover Halloween pumpkins or simply craving the taste of fall, this jam is the ultimate comfort food that brings cozy flavors to your kitchen.
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Why Pumpkin Pie Jam is a Must-Make
Pumpkin Pie Jam is incredibly versatile and has many strengths that make it a favorite for autumn enthusiasts. It’s easy to make, healthy, and adds a seasonal touch to everything from baked goods to savory dishes. The jam’s smooth texture and sweet-spicy flavor profile make it a fantastic addition to your pantry, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie without the hassle of pie crust. This jam is also a perfect gift for the holidays, packaged in jars with festive labels.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Jam
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Pie Jam:
- Pumpkin or Squash: The main ingredient, providing a smooth base with a mild sweetness. Squash can make the jam thicker and brighter in color.
- Water: Helps cook the pumpkin to a soft, tender consistency.
- Cinnamon Stick: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and enhances the spice blend.
- Fresh Ginger: Infuses the jam with a subtle heat, balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that gives the jam its signature flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and help preserve the jam.
- Jam Sugar: This is essential for proper gelling, giving the jam its thick, spreadable texture.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary preferences, here are some simple swaps:
- Squash instead of Pumpkin: If you have access to squash, it will yield a jam with a richer texture and a more vibrant color.
- Mixed Spice for Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you can’t find pumpkin pie spice, mixed spice can be used as a substitute.
- Maple Syrup for Sugar: For a more natural sweetener, you could replace jam sugar with maple syrup, though it may alter the consistency slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Pumpkin Pie Jam is straightforward. Follow these steps for a smooth, flavorful jam that will last up to a year when stored properly.
- Prepare the Pumpkin: Start by peeling and chopping your pumpkin (or squash) into small pieces. Add the chopped pumpkin into a large preserving pan along with water, cinnamon stick, and freshly grated ginger.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30–40 minutes or until the pumpkin is soft and tender.
- Blend: Once the pumpkin is cooked, remove the cinnamon stick. Use an immersion blender to puree the pumpkin until smooth. Keep the pureed pumpkin over low heat.
- Add the Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in the jam sugar and lemon juice, making sure the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Check for Setting Point: Boil the jam for about 5-10 minutes. To check if it’s set, drop a little jam onto a cold saucer. If it crinkles when pushed, the jam is ready. If not, boil for a couple more minutes and retest.
- Jar the Jam: Quickly pour the jam into sterilized jars while it’s hot. Seal the jars and let them cool.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie Jam
Making jam is an art, and there are a few tricks to ensure your Pumpkin Pie Jam turns out perfect:
- Sterilize Your Jars Properly: Clean your jars thoroughly and sterilize them by microwaving them for 2 minutes. This prevents contamination and extends the shelf life of your jam.
- Be Patient with the Boil: Make sure you allow the jam to boil long enough to reach the setting point. Under-cooked jam may remain runny, while overcooked jam can become too thick.
- Adjust Spices: If you love a spicier kick, increase the amount of ginger or add a pinch of cloves to intensify the flavor.
Creative Ways to Use Pumpkin Pie Jam
Pumpkin Pie Jam isn’t just for spreading on toast! Here are some ways you can incorporate this delicious jam into your meals:
- Baking: Use the jam as a filling for muffins, cupcakes, or cookies to add an autumn twist to your baked goods.
- Savory Pairing: Pair it with a sharp cheddar cheese or use it as a glaze for roasted meats like chicken or pork.
- Pumpkin Pie: Add a few spoonfuls of Pumpkin Pie Jam to a pie crust, mix with eggs and cream, and bake for a quick and easy pumpkin pie.
- Breakfast: Spread it on crumpets, pancakes, or your favorite breakfast bread for a seasonal treat.
How to Store and Preserve Pumpkin Pie Jam
Proper storage is key to maintaining the jam’s flavor and texture:
- Before Opening: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. The jam will last up to 12 months if unopened.
- After Opening: Once opened, store the jam in the fridge and consume it within 2 months.
Pumpkin Pie Jam: A Perfect Autumn Treat
This Pumpkin Pie Jam is the essence of autumn in a jar, making it a must-have for your fall recipe collection. Whether you’re using it for baking, as a savory glaze, or enjoying it on a slice of warm toast, this jam brings cozy, pumpkin pie flavors to every dish. It’s also a great way to use up leftover pumpkins after Halloween or add a festive touch to your holiday gift baskets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pumpkin Pie Jam is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make treat that brings the comforting flavors of fall to any dish. Whether you enjoy it on toast, use it in baked goods, or pair it with savory meals, this jam adds a sweet and spicy twist that will delight your taste buds year-round. Not only does it make for an amazing homemade gift, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up pumpkins after Halloween or fall harvest. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and create your own batch of Pumpkin Pie Jam – a true taste of autumn in every jar!
FAQ about Pumpkin Pie Jam
1. Can I make Pumpkin Pie Jam with canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use canned pumpkin puree to make Pumpkin Pie Jam. However, note that canned puree tends to be darker than fresh pumpkin, which may slightly alter the color of the jam. Follow the same recipe, adding the pumpkin pie spice and ginger as directed.
2. How do I know when my Pumpkin Pie Jam has reached the setting point?
The best way to check the setting point of your jam is by using the wrinkle test. Drop a small spoonful of jam onto a cold saucer and place it in the fridge for a minute. Push the jam with your fingertip – if it wrinkles, the jam is set. If not, continue boiling and retest after a few minutes.
3. How long does Pumpkin Pie Jam last?
When properly stored in a cool, dark place, Pumpkin Pie Jam can last up to 12 months unopened. Once opened, store it in the fridge and consume it within 2 months for the best quality and flavor.
4. Can I adjust the spices in my Pumpkin Pie Jam?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier jam, feel free to adjust the amount of ginger or add a pinch of cloves. You can also experiment with adding more cinnamon if you enjoy that flavor profile. Just remember to balance the spices so they don’t overpower the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
More Relevant Recipes
- Whipped Pumpkin Dip – Easy Creamy Fall Snack: This whipped pumpkin dip is a deliciously creamy treat, perfect for fall gatherings. With a rich pumpkin flavor and a hint of spice, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, fruit, or as a spread for baked goods. A great alternative or complement to your Pumpkin Pie Jam for those seeking a creamy pumpkin-based snack.
- Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe: A moist and spiced pumpkin bread drizzled with a sweet maple glaze. This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, similar to Pumpkin Pie Jam, making it the perfect pairing for an autumn breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies – Easy Fall Treat: These soft and chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are a twist on the classic cinnamon treat, bringing a burst of pumpkin flavor into the mix. With a perfect balance of spices, they are a great companion to your Pumpkin Pie Jam, offering another way to enjoy pumpkin-inspired goodness.
Pumpkin Pie Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 x 350g jars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin Pie Jam is a delightful and easy-to-make spread that brings the warm flavors of fall into a jar. With the perfect blend of pumpkin, spices, and sugar, it’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on toast, used in baking, or paired with savory dishes. Whether you’re using leftover pumpkins or preparing for the season, this jam captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 kg pumpkin or squash, peeled and chopped into small pieces
- 275 ml water
- 1 small stick cinnamon
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice or Mixed Spice
- 8 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 kg jam sugar
Instructions
- Place the chopped pumpkin or squash into a large preserving pan. Add water, grated ginger, and spices, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30–40 minutes, until the pumpkin is soft and tender.
- Remove the cinnamon stick from the pan and use a stick blender to puree the cooked pumpkin until smooth.
- Keep the pureed pumpkin on low heat, add the jam sugar, and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Add the lemon juice and bring to a rolling boil.
- Boil for about 5-10 minutes, until the jam reaches the setting point (104°C or 220°F). You can also use the wrinkle test to check for setting point.
- Once the jam is ready, pour it into sterilized jars while hot. Seal the jars immediately and let them cool.
Notes
- Ensure that you are using fresh, uncarved pumpkins for the best flavor. Avoid pumpkins that have had candles in them.
- If you can’t find Pumpkin Pie Spice, you can substitute with Mixed Spice.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cloves or more cinnamon to taste.
- Always sterilize jars properly to avoid contamination and ensure longer shelf life.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Preserve, Jam
- Method: Boiling, Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20g
- Calories: 63 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 1mg