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Learn how to make homemade damson jam with fresh damsons and lemon juice—perfectly sweet and spreadable on toast or scones.

Homemade Damson Jam

56kcal
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Prep 15 minutes
Cook 25 minutes
Macerating Time 1 hour
Total 1 hour 40 minutes
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this damson jam recipe delivers a sweet, tangy burst of flavor that's perfect for slathering on toast, swirling into yogurt, or gifting in pretty jars. The deep purple hue and rich, velvety texture of homemade damson jam make it a standout—like a little jar of summer preserved for cozy mornings.
Servings 4 8-oz jars
Course Preserves
Cuisine British

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh damsons washed and pitted
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 0.5 tsp unsalted butter

Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed pot
  • Candy thermometer
  • Sterilized jars

Method

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the damsons, sugar, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 1 hour to draw out the juices.
    Learn how to make homemade damson jam with fresh damsons and lemon juice—perfectly sweet and spreadable on toast or scones.
  2. Place the pot over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves completely.
    Learn how to make homemade damson jam with fresh damsons and lemon juice—perfectly sweet and spreadable on toast or scones.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Add the butter to reduce foaming, then continue boiling for 15–20 minutes, or until the jam reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
    Learn how to make homemade damson jam with fresh damsons and lemon juice—perfectly sweet and spreadable on toast or scones.
  5. Test the jam's consistency by spooning a small amount onto a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when pushed, it's ready.
  6. Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Let cool slightly before ladling into sterilized jars.
    Learn how to make homemade damson jam with fresh damsons and lemon juice—perfectly sweet and spreadable on toast or scones.
  7. Seal the jars and process in a water bath for 10 minutes, or store in the refrigerator for immediate use.

Nutrition

Calories56kcalCarbohydrates14.5gProtein0.1gFat0.1gSodium0.5mgPotassium25mgFiber0.3gSugar14gVitamin A1IUVitamin C2mgCalcium2mgIron0.1mg

Notes

For a lower-sugar version, reduce sugar by half and add 1/4 teaspoon of calcium powder (like Pomona's Pectin). Add cinnamon stick or vanilla bean for spiced variation. Unopened jars last 1 year; refrigerate after opening for up to 3 weeks.

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