Salut les gourmands!
If there’s one thing that brings instant joy to a breakfast table, it’s the bright and tangy taste of homemade Italian lemon jam. This recipe is a little taste of the Amalfi Coast — fresh, fragrant, and bursting with sunshine in every spoonful. I first discovered it during a summer trip to Italy, where every breakfast featured this golden jam on warm bread, often paired with a drizzle of olive oil. Since then, it’s become my go-to way to capture that Mediterranean feeling all year round.
This Italian Lemon Jam Recipe is easy to make, requires just a few simple ingredients, and the result is an irresistible blend of sweet and tart. Whether you spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it to glaze pastries, this jam is pure homemade magic. Ready to fill your kitchen with the scent of fresh lemons? Let’s get started!
Presentation de la recette
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: 3–4 medium jars
Originating from southern Italy, this lemon jam (or marmellata di limoni) celebrates the region’s famous citrus fruits — especially the aromatic Sorrento and Amalfi lemons. It’s perfect for breakfast lovers, dessert fans, and anyone who enjoys a fresh, zesty twist in their pantry staples.
Ingredients
To make your own Italian Lemon Jam, you’ll need:
- 6 large organic lemons (preferably unwaxed)
- 4 cups (800 g) granulated sugar
- 3 cups (700 ml) water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to help the jam set naturally)
- Optional: 1 vanilla bean or a pinch of vanilla extract for a delicate flavor twist
💡 Tip: Always choose organic lemons since you’ll be using the zest — it’s the secret to that signature Italian aroma.
Préparation
Follow these steps carefully to get the perfect consistency and flavor balance.
1. Prepare the Lemons
- Wash the lemons thoroughly under warm water to remove any wax or residue.
- Slice the lemons in half, remove the seeds, and then cut the fruit — skin and all — into thin slices or small chunks.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can chop the slices finely or pulse them briefly in a food processor.
2. Boil the Lemons
- Place all the lemon pieces in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Drain the water completely — this step removes excess bitterness from the lemon peel.
3. Cook the Jam
- Return the lemons to the pot. Add 3 cups of fresh water and 4 cups of sugar.
- Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
You’ll notice the mixture thickening and turning golden. The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon or reaches 105°C (220°F) on a candy thermometer.
4. Add the Finishing Touch
Stir in the lemon juice (and vanilla, if using) in the last few minutes of cooking. This gives your jam that extra shine and flavor depth.
5. Jar and Store
- Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into warm jars, leaving a little space at the top.
- Seal tightly and turn the jars upside down for 5 minutes to create a natural vacuum seal.
- Let them cool completely before labeling and storing.
Your Italian Lemon Jam will keep for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2–3 weeks.
Petit conseil pro 🍋
Want a more luxurious texture? Add a spoonful of honey during cooking for a smoother, richer taste — it also enhances the lemon’s natural sweetness.
For a slightly bitter, marmalade-like flavor, don’t remove all the white pith. Italians love that subtle balance of sweet and bitter!
You can also mix in other fruits — such as orange or ginger — for a creative twist on the classic recipe.
Accompagnements suggérés 🍞
There are endless ways to enjoy your homemade Italian Lemon Jam:
- Spread it on toasted brioche or fresh baguette for a Mediterranean breakfast.
- Swirl it into Greek yogurt or cheesecake batter for a tangy dessert.
- Use it as a glaze for baked goods, like scones, tarts, or lemon cakes.
- Pair it with soft cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone for an elegant snack.
- Add a spoonful to sparkling water or tea for a refreshing lemony drink.
À vos tabliers!
Making this Italian Lemon Jam Recipe at home is like bottling a little bit of Italian sunshine. Each jar holds a burst of citrus brightness that turns ordinary breakfasts into something special.
If you give this recipe a try, tell me in the comments how it turned out! Did you keep it classic or experiment with new flavors?
Share your creations with friends — or keep them all to yourself (I won’t judge 😉).
Bon appétit! 🍋✨