Ingredients:

  • 4 cups ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 2-4 sterilized canning jars

Instructions:

  1. Peel, core, and chop the pears into small pieces.
  2. In a large pot, combine chopped pears, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  4. Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) during the final minutes of cooking.
  5. Test for doneness by dropping a bit of the jam onto a cold plate; it should hold its shape.
  6. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace, and seal with lids while still hot.
  7. Let the jam cool at room temperature before storing in the refrigerator or processing for longer shelf life.