This Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade Recipe is bright, sweet and full of fresh citrus flavor. It feels special but stays very easy to make.
The soft peel and gentle tart taste make it perfect for toast. I love how simple ingredients turn into something beautiful. If you want a homemade spread, this is perfect.
This guide shows how to make Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade at home. You will also learn tips, storage and serving ideas.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made this marmalade on a calm weekend morning. The kitchen smelled fresh and sunny. Meyer lemons are softer and less sharp than regular lemons.
That makes this recipe forgiving and friendly. I liked how the peels stayed tender after cooking. The color turned golden and glossy.
I tasted it warm and smiled. It felt homemade in the best way. I now make it every citrus season. Friends always ask for jars.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade
- Servings: 12 small servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Course: Spread
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 60 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large saucepan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Clean glass jars
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade
- Meyer lemons – 6 medium
- Water – 4 cups
- Granulated sugar – 3 cups
- Fresh lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1 small pinch
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Lemons
Wash lemons well. Cut them into thin slices. Remove seeds carefully. Keep peels attached for texture.
2. Soak the Lemons
Place lemon slices in a large saucepan. Add water. Let them soak for 20 minutes.
3. Start Cooking
Turn heat to medium. Bring lemons and water to a gentle boil. Stir slowly to avoid sticking.
4. Add Sugar
Add sugar to the pan. Stir until fully dissolved. The mixture will start to thicken.
5. Add Lemon Juice
Pour in fresh lemon juice. Add a tiny pinch of salt. Stir gently for balance.
6. Simmer Until Thick
Lower heat slightly. Simmer for 30 minutes. Stir often until marmalade looks glossy.
7. Test the Texture
Place a small spoon on a cold plate. It should set softly when cooled.
8. Cool and Store
Remove from heat. Let marmalade cool slightly. Spoon into clean jars and seal.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade
- Use ripe Meyer lemons for sweeter flavor.
- Slice lemons thin for tender peels.
- Stir often to prevent burning.
- Cook slowly for better texture.
- Taste near the end and adjust sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using regular lemons without adjusting sugar.
- Skipping seed removal. Seeds add bitterness.
- Cooking on high heat. This causes burning.
- Not stirring enough during simmering.
- Overcooking until very stiff.
Serving Suggestions
This marmalade tastes amazing on warm toast. It pairs well with butter or cream cheese. You can swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal.
It also works as a cake filling. I love it with scones and tea. The citrus flavor wakes up any breakfast. It also adds shine to simple desserts.
Variations You Can Try
- Add a little vanilla for warmth.
- Mix in orange slices for color.
- Use honey instead of some sugar.
- Add ginger for gentle spice.
- Try lime juice for extra tang.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store jars in the fridge for three weeks.
- Freeze for up to three months.
- Always use a clean spoon.
- Let chilled marmalade sit before serving.
- Do not microwave. Warm gently if needed.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 kcal |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Health Benefits
Meyer lemons contain vitamin C. This supports immune health. Homemade marmalade avoids preservatives.
The peel adds fiber and natural oils. Using fresh fruit adds antioxidants. Small amounts fit well in balanced diets. Enjoy it mindfully with whole foods.
Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade Recipe
Ingredients
- Meyer lemons – 6 medium
- Water – 4 cups
- Granulated sugar – 3 cups
- Fresh lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1 small pinch
Instructions
Prepare the Lemons
- Wash lemons well. Cut them into thin slices. Remove seeds carefully. Keep peels attached for texture.
Soak the Lemons
- Place lemon slices in a large saucepan. Add water. Let them soak for 20 minutes.
Start Cooking
- Turn heat to medium. Bring lemons and water to a gentle boil. Stir slowly to avoid sticking.
Add Sugar
- Add sugar to the pan. Stir until fully dissolved. The mixture will start to thicken.
Add Lemon Juice
- Pour in fresh lemon juice. Add a tiny pinch of salt. Stir gently for balance.
Simmer Until Thick
- Lower heat slightly. Simmer for 30 minutes. Stir often until marmalade looks glossy.
Test the Texture
- Place a small spoon on a cold plate. It should set softly when cooled.
Cool and Store
- Remove from heat. Let marmalade cool slightly. Spoon into clean jars and seal.
Notes
- Use ripe Meyer lemons for sweeter flavor.
- Slice lemons thin for tender peels.
- Stir often to prevent burning.
- Cook slowly for better texture.
- Taste near the end and adjust sweetness.
FAQs about Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade
Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, you can use regular lemons. Add more sugar since they taste sharper. The marmalade will still set well.
How do I know when marmalade is ready?
The marmalade thickens and looks shiny. The cold plate test helps confirm the right texture easily.
Do I need special jars for storage?
Clean glass jars with tight lids work fine. Sterilized jars help keep marmalade fresh longer.
Why is my marmalade bitter?
Bitterness comes from seeds or thick peels. Always remove seeds and slice lemons thinly.
Can I reduce the sugar amount?
You can reduce slightly, but sugar helps setting. Too little sugar may cause runny marmalade.
Final Thoughts
This Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade Recipe feels simple and joyful. It uses fresh ingredients and clear steps.
The flavor is bright and gentle. Anyone can make it with confidence. If you want a homemade spread, try this recipe.
You will love the taste and texture. Once you learn how to make Ina Garten Meyer Lemon Marmalade, it may become a favorite.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!