This Mirabelle Plum Jam is a simple, elegant preserve that celebrates the natural sweetness and gentle tartness of ripe Mirabelle plums. Balanced with fresh orange juice, fragrant zest, and rich maple syrup, it delivers a vibrant, golden-hued jam that feels light yet deeply flavorful. Perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into desserts, or enjoying by the spoonful, this jam proves that homemade preserves can be both easy and special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with just a few wholesome ingredients
Naturally sweetened with maple syrup, no refined sugar
Bright citrus notes enhance the fruity plum flavor
Quick and straightforward stovetop method
Versatile for breakfast, baking, or dessert toppings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups ripe Mirabelle plums, pitted and roughly chopped
⅓ cup dark maple syrup
Zest of 1 medium orange
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Directions
Add the chopped Mirabelle plums, maple syrup, orange zest, and orange juice to a medium saucepan with relatively tall sides. Stir well to combine.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Allow the jam to boil for about 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring more often toward the end as the mixture thickens and reduces. The plums will gradually break down into a jammy consistency.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool for 10 to 20 minutes.
Transfer the jam to a clean glass jar or container. Let it cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of jam.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Cooking time is around 40 minutes.
Total time needed is roughly 50 minutes.
Variations
Substitute other sweet-tart plum varieties if Mirabelle plums are unavailable, adjusting sweetness as needed.
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or vanilla powder for a warmer flavor profile.
Include a small amount of lemon juice for extra brightness and acidity.
Mash the jam more thoroughly for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
Storage/Reheating
Store the jam in a sealed, sanitized glass jar in the refrigerator for up to several months. For longer storage, freeze in small airtight containers and thaw in the refrigerator before use. This jam does not require reheating; simply stir before serving if it has thickened slightly when chilled.
FAQs
Can I use frozen plums instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen plums can be used. Thaw them first and include any released juices in the saucepan.
Is this jam very sweet?
The sweetness is balanced and mild, relying on maple syrup rather than refined sugar. You can adjust the amount to taste.
Do I need pectin for this recipe?
No pectin is required. The jam thickens naturally as it simmers and reduces.
Can I make this jam smoother?
Yes, you can mash the plums more while cooking or briefly blend the cooled jam for a smoother texture.
What can I serve this jam with?
It pairs well with toast, pancakes, oatmeal, yogurt alternatives, or as a dessert topping.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is ready when it has thickened and coats the back of a spoon without running off quickly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger saucepan and expect a slightly longer cooking time.
Will the color change with other plums?
Yes, different plum varieties will alter the final color, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Is this jam suitable for baking?
Absolutely. It works well as a filling or swirl in baked desserts.
Can I reduce the maple syrup?
You can reduce it slightly, but keep in mind the jam may be more tart and less thick.
Conclusion
Mirabelle Plum Jam is a wonderful example of how a few quality ingredients can create something truly special. With its bright citrus notes, gentle sweetness, and beautiful color, this jam is a delightful addition to everyday meals and special treats alike. Making it at home is simple, rewarding, and well worth the effort.
A golden, vibrant Mirabelle Plum Jam naturally sweetened with maple syrup and enhanced with orange zest and juice. This easy stovetop preserve is perfect for toast, desserts, or baking.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:1 cup
Category:Condiment
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:French
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
2 cups ripe Mirabelle plums, pitted and roughly chopped
⅓ cup dark maple syrup
Zest of 1 medium orange
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions
Add the chopped Mirabelle plums, maple syrup, orange zest, and orange juice to a medium saucepan. Stir well to combine.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently.
Boil for about 5 minutes, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring more often as it thickens. The plums will break down into a jammy consistency.
Remove from heat and let cool for 10 to 20 minutes.
Transfer to a clean glass jar or container. Let cool completely before refrigerating.
Notes
No pectin needed — the jam thickens naturally while simmering.
Use frozen plums if fresh ones aren’t available; thaw before using.
For smoother jam, mash during cooking or blend after cooling.
Try with cinnamon, vanilla, or lemon juice for variation.
Color may vary depending on the type of plums used.
