Description
Serve on toast, stir into yogurt, or use as a glaze – this homemade jam is an amazing way to preserve pumpkin season.
Ingredients
2.2 lb (1 kg) butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 1/2 to 3 1/2 cups (500–700 g) sugar (adjust based on desired sweetness)
1 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds scraped
2 lemons, juiced and zest of 1 lemon
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
- Peel the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife.
- Cut the squash into small cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces, to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, add the cubed butternut squash, sugar, vanilla bean pod and seeds, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
- Squeeze the juice from two lemons into the pot and add the zest of one lemon.
Step 3: Cook the Jam
- Place the pot over low heat and stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Cook for approximately 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the squash softens and the mixture thickens to a jelly-like consistency.
Step 4: Sterilize the Jars
- Place jars and lids in a large pot of water, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Bring the water to a boil and let the jars and lids sterilize for 10 minutes.
- Remove them carefully and arrange on a baking tray. Place in an oven preheated to low heat (around 200°F/95°C) for 10–15 minutes to dry.
Step 5: Jar the Jam
- While the jam is still hot, carefully spoon it into the sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top.
- Seal the jars tightly with the lids and immediately turn them upside down. Let them sit upside down for 5 minutes, then return them to an upright position.
Step 6: Cool and Store
- Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. Store the jam in the refrigerator and use within 2–3 weeks.
Notes
Storage: Refrigerate the jam in sealed jars and consume within 2–3 weeks. For longer storage, consider water bath canning.
Serving Ideas: This jam pairs beautifully with toast, scones, yogurt, or as a glaze for roasted meats.
Consistency Tip: If the jam seems too thick after cooling, gently reheat and stir in a small amount of water.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg