How to Make and Preserve Watermelon Jam: A Summer Delight

Jars right out of the canner

When you think of watermelon, the first things that come to mind are probably fresh slices, juicy bites, and the perfect summer snack. But did you know that you can turn that sweet, juicy watermelon into a delicious jam that you can enjoy year-round? Watermelon jam is a unique and flavorful way to preserve summer’s bounty, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to make and preserve watermelon jam, allowing you to keep the flavors of summer alive even in the chill of winter. Whether you’re an experienced canner or new to preserving, this recipe is fun, versatile, and perfect for adding to your breakfast, desserts, or even savory dishes.

Why Make Watermelon Jam?

Watermelon jam is a sweet treat that captures the essence of summer. It’s a great way to use up an abundance of watermelon, especially if you have more than you can eat fresh. The jam can be spread on toast, swirled into yogurt, used as a glaze for meats, or paired with cheese. Its unique flavor and vibrant color make it a wonderful addition to your pantry or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

- 4 cups watermelon juice (about 6-8 cups of cubed watermelon)

- 4 cups granulated sugar

- ¼ cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

- 1 box (1.75 oz) powdered pectin (optional, depending on your desired consistency)

Optional Add-Ins:

- A pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice twist

- Fresh mint for a refreshing undertone

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Watermelon Jam

Freshly harvested watermelon from the garden

1. Prepare the Watermelon

Start by selecting a ripe, seedless watermelon. If you can't find a seedless variety, you’ll need to remove the seeds as you cut the watermelon into cubes.

- Cut the watermelon into small cubes and remove any seeds.

- Blend the cubes in a blender or food processor until you have a smooth juice. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp, leaving just the watermelon juice.

2. Cook the Jam

- Pour the watermelon juice into a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.

- Add the lemon juice and stir well.

- Gradually add the sugar, stirring constantly to dissolve it.

3. Add Pectin (If Desired)

If you want a thicker jam, you can add powdered pectin. This is optional, as some people prefer a more syrupy consistency. If using pectin:

- Whisk the pectin into the watermelon mixture while the liquid is still cold to avoid clumping.

- Once the pectin is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Boil the Jam

- Bring the watermelon mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring frequently.

- Continue boiling for 15-20 minutes, or until the jam thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid has reduced, and the mixture has a jam-like consistency.

Tip: To test the consistency, place a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it gels and holds its shape after a minute, it’s ready.

5. Optional Flavor Additions

For a unique flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or mint during the boiling process. These spices enhance the natural sweetness of the watermelon without overpowering it.

6. Skim the Foam

As the jam cooks, foam may form on the surface. Use a spoon to skim off any foam to ensure a smoother final product.

Preserving Watermelon Jam: Canning Method

Now that your jam is ready, it’s time to preserve it for long-term storage.

What You’ll Need:

- Sterilized glass jars with lids and bands

- A large pot or canner

- A jar lifter or tongs

- A clean towel or paper towel

Steps for Canning:

1. Warm Your Jars

Before canning, ensure that your jars and lids are warm by heating them in water for at least 10 minutes. This helps prevent heat chock.

2. Fill the Jars

Using a ladle, carefully fill the sterilized jars with the hot watermelon jam, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean towel to ensure a good seal.

3. Seal the Jars

Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they’re fingertip-tight.

4. Process the Jars in a Water Bath

Place the jars in a large pot or canner, ensuring they are fully submerged in water. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 10 minutes (adjust time based on altitude if necessary).

5. Cool and Store

Carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter or tongs and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you’ll hear the “pop” of the lids sealing. Once fully cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the lid. If it doesn’t move, the jar is sealed properly. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoy Your Homemade Watermelon Jam

Once your jam is ready and preserved, the possibilities are endless. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over ice cream, or pair it with cheese for a delightful snack. You’ll love how this vibrant, sweet jam brings a taste of summer to your kitchen, even on the coldest days.

Making and preserving watermelon jam is a wonderful way to stretch the joys of watermelon beyond the summer season. Whether you're enjoying it with breakfast or gifting a jar to a friend, watermelon jam is a delightful way to preserve one of the season's best fruits.

Happy preserving!