Bright, zesty, and irresistibly sweet, Lime Marmalade is the perfect spread to wake up your morning toast or swirl into yogurt. With its jewel-like glow and tangy punch, it’s a homemade treat that balances citrus bite with just the right touch of sugar.

This marmalade isn’t just for breakfast—it elevates scones, glazes chicken, and even pairs beautifully with soft cheeses on a grazing board. Making a batch is a joyful process, filling your kitchen with the fragrance of fresh limes and rewarding you with jars of green-gold sunshine.

What Kind of Limes Should I Use?

For the best flavor, use fresh, thin-skinned limes like Persian or Key limes. Their aromatic zest and tart juice are essential for a vibrant marmalade. Avoid bottled lime juice; fresh is non-negotiable here.

Ingredients for the Lime Marmalade

Limes: The star of the show, providing both zest and juice for maximum citrus flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens the tartness and helps achieve that classic jammy set.
Water: Balances the mixture, softens the lime peels, and helps dissolve the sugar.
Pectin (optional): If you want a firmer set, especially if using low-pectin limes, a little added pectin can help.

How To Make the Lime Marmalade

Step 1: Prepare the Limes

Wash the limes thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them thinly, removing any seeds. The thin slices help the peel soften and blend beautifully into the marmalade.

Step 2: Soak the Fruit

Place the lime slices in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight. This step softens the peel and reduces bitterness, setting you up for a well-balanced preserve.

Step 3: Cook the Marmalade

Transfer the soaked limes and water to a heavy-bottomed pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until the peel is tender. Add sugar and stir to dissolve completely. Keep simmering, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches the setting point (about 220°F or 105°C on a thermometer).

Step 4: Test and Jar

To check if it’s ready, spoon a little onto a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s done. Pour the hot marmalade into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool. You’ll soon have homemade lime marmalade ready to enjoy!

Serving and Storing Lime Marmalade

Spread Lime Marmalade generously on toast, croissants, or scones for a breakfast upgrade. It also shines as a glaze for grilled chicken or salmon, and adds a gourmet twist to cheese platters. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year; once opened, keep refrigerated and use within a month.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade lime marmalade last?

Unopened, it can last up to 12 months in a cool, dark place. After opening, refrigerate and enjoy within 4 weeks.

Do I need to use pectin?

Not necessarily. Limes have natural pectin, but adding extra helps ensure a firmer, more reliable set.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Reducing sugar may affect the set and preservation. If you want a lower-sugar version, look for low-sugar pectin.

Why soak the limes overnight?

Soaking softens the rind and reduces bitterness, making the marmalade more pleasant and less harsh.

What can I use lime marmalade for besides toast?

Glaze roasted meats, swirl into yogurt, spoon over ice cream, or pair with creamy cheeses.

Want More Jam and Spread Ideas?

If you love this Lime Marmalade, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delicious creations:

Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth treat.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a tangy, creamy dessert.
Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby for a stunning breakfast centerpiece.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you’re craving sweet caramel notes.

These recipes bring citrus, berries, and rich flavors to your kitchen—perfect alongside or inspired by lime marmalade!

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest jam board so you can find it again any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Key limes or Persian? Did you try it as a glaze or stick to toast?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own! Share your tweaks, tips, and questions—let’s swap ideas and help each other enjoy homemade goodness.

For more inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam where I share my daily kitchen adventures and recipes.

Lime Marmalade

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 medium jars (250 ml each)
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Bright, zesty, and sweet, Lime Marmalade is a homemade citrus preserve that brings sunshine to your breakfast or snacks. Spread it on toast, glaze it over meats, or spoon it into yogurt—this versatile marmalade is sure to brighten any dish.