I’m often asked what the difference is between fruit spreads. What makes a jelly a jelly and not a jam? Is a preserve the same thing as a fruit butter? Here is a quick guide to fruit spreads to make your shopping easier and hopefully inspire you to make one at home.

• Jelly: The Royal Queen of Spreads.  Jellies should be clear and firm.  The most difficult and time consuming of  all fruit spreads, their delicate nature makes them a special treat.
• Jams: The Children’s Favorite. Jams are thick, sweet spreads made from crushed fruit and sugar.  Less firm than jellies, the thickening comes from the cooking process.
• Preserves: The Beautiful Spread.  Preserves are made with pieces of fruit or small whole berries suspended in clear gelled syrup.  The suspension should be soft for easy spreading.
• Marmalades: The Tart Treat.  Marmalades are soft citrus jellies that contain bits of fruit and peel.  Although most marmalades made in the US are sweet, marmalades traditionally have a delicious, slightly bitter edge.  Traditional marmalades often feature Seville Oranges.
• Conserves: The Winter Wonder.  Conserves are jams that often include dried fruits like currants, nuts and coconut. They make an elegant accompaniment to meats and other savories.
• Butters: The Comfort Spread.  Butters are fruit cooked down to spreading consistency.  They should never be watery or gelled in any way.

Homemade fruit spreads are a wonderful way to keep summer in your home year round.  If you have never tried making your own, start with a simple jam recipe and I think that you will find it is well worth your time.  Enjoy!
photo courtesy of amandabhslater