Watermelon jam is a perfect solution when you have more watermelon than you can eat. This condiment captures that sweet, juicy flavor in a spreadable form. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for summer breakfasts.
Contents
Watermelon Jam Recipe
Watermelon jam is a unique and less common type of fruit preserve. It’s made from fresh watermelon pulp, sugar, and citrus (usually lemon or lime). This jam is known for its fresh, fragrant, colorful, and sweet summer flavor.
Because watermelon has a high water content. I used fruit pectin from apples to thicken it and citrus juice to aid in setting the jam.
You can spread this jam on toast, biscuits, or crackers for breakfast or snacks. It also complements fresh goat cheese or Basque sheep cheese for a creamy-sweet contrast.
This condiment can be used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or cakes, or baked into cupcakes for a fruity flavor. It can be whisked into salad dressings or spread with butter or cream on bread for a rich-sweet balance.
Here’s how to make the watermelon jam:
Watermelon Jam
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 4 cups seedless watermelon cubed
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar adjust based on sweetness of watermelon
- 2 tbsp lemon juice fresh
- 1 small green apple grated with peel, seeds removed – natural pectin source
Instructions
- Puree watermelon in a blender until smooth. Optional: strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother jam.
- In a saucepan, add the watermelon puree, grated green apple (with peel), sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
- Simmer for 35–40 minutes, until thickened. The apple helps it gel naturally. The jam should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Let cool slightly, then pour into clean jars. Refrigerate once fully cooled.
Notes
- Add ½ tsp fresh ginger or a few mint leaves while cooking for added flavor (remove before jarring).
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
SIMILAR RECIPES:
Variations
There are many versions of the watermelon jam. You can try one of the variations below:
- Watermelon Rind Jam uses the rind to make jam.
- Spiced Variations include spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and allspice, as well as citrus zest (orange or lemon) and juice.
- Watermelon Strawberry Jam replaces 1 cup of watermelon with 1 cup of fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped). The strawberry boosts natural pectin and adds a sweet-tart depth.
- Watermelon Mint Jam adds a handful of fresh mint leaves while simmering. It’s refreshing and great with toast or yogurt!
- Citrus Zest Addition includes 1 tsp lemon or lime zest for an extra zing. It enhances brightness and balances the watermelon’s sweetness.
- Spicy Watermelon Jam adds a pinch of chili flakes or ¼ tsp finely chopped fresh chili. This version pairs well with cheese boards or grilled meats.
- Honey-Sweetened Version swaps sugar for 2–3 tbsp honey (add after removing from heat to preserve nutrients).