Some people like jam, some like jelly, some insist on marmalade. What’s the difference?

Let’s start first with what they have in common – they all are basically some sort of fruit that has been combined with sugar, boiled until the sugar dissolves and then put into sterilized jars.

So, what differentiates them?

Note: terms can be different in the United Kingdom and other countries that speak “British” English not “American” English – just to make it more confusing!

What is Jelly?

Jellies include only the fruit juice; the solids are removed, and pectin is also added to the cooking process.

What is Jam?

In Jams, the fruit pieces are crushed and left in the mixture (also with pectin and sometimes an acidic ingredient).

What are Preserves?

For Fruit Preserves, the fruit pieces are not crushed and left in the jelly mixture.

Can preserves be substituted for jam?

The answer is “it depends” – on how you are using it. For serving alongside your favorite rolls or biscuits, they are both delicious! In sandwiches, you can use either but jam is easier to spread than preserves, since the fruit pieces are crushed in jam while left whole in preserves. For baking, again, it depends on what you are making. Not only can the flavor vary (preserves are typically more “fruity” tasting) but also sometimes the consistency, too. The safest approach is to follow the recipe!

What’s Marmalade?

Marmalade is made the same way as preserves, but using the peel and pulp of a citrus fruit.

What is a Conserve?

Conserves are a mixture of cooked fruits, nuts and sometimes raisins.

What is used to preserve jam, jelly, preserves or marmalade?

According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, the proper combination of fruit, pectin, acid and sugar results in the mixture forming a gel and helps to preserve the end product.

Can jam, jelly, preserves or marmalade be made without sugar or pectin?

All these fruit spreads contain some form of sugar and most contain pectin, either naturally or added. Actually, pectin is naturally found in all fruits! Some contain enough to form a gel on their own, others require more pectin to be added, either through combining in other fruits high in pectin or by adding a commercial pectin product.

You can substitute honey for up to half of the granulated sugar, just keep in mind that honey tends to be sweeter so you may want to reduce the quantity a bit. You can also make any of these fruit spreads with sugar substitutes, but I don’t believe they taste as good and have a less desirable texture.

How long do jam, jelly, preserves and marmalade last? What is the best way to store them?

Unopened, well-sealed jars of jams, jellies, preserves and marmalade will last up to 1 year. Store in a dark, dry, cool place. When opened, they can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. I have found some that will last a bit longer, but they start to lose their flavor over time.

Recipes using Jam, Jelly, Preserves, Marmalade, or Conserves

Pin this tip now to save it!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Share This With The World

Categories

About the author

Hi, I'm Lee.

I am inspired by my mother, Sally’s, love of cooking and entertaining to gather friends and family together over great meals and conversation. In fact, I held my first dinner party at the age of 16. Throughout the years, I’ve provided recipes, menu advice and cooking tips to friends seeking uncomplicated and delicious ideas for home entertaining.


Sign up for recipes, tips & more!
Join the club

Latest Posts