Capture the unique flavor of the Caribbean with this traditional Guavaberry Drink and Jam Recipe. Sweet guavaberries are slowly simmered with warming spices, creating a rich homemade jam that can be enjoyed on its own or transformed into a flavorful rum-infused holiday drink. This versatile recipe celebrates the distinctive taste of guavaberries and is perfect for festive gatherings, gift giving, or enjoying a taste of island tradition at home.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Additional Time
7 days
Total Time
7 days 1 hour 50 minutes
2 cups guavaberries
3 cinnamon sticks
12 whole cloves
6 allspice berries
1 cup granulated sugar
2 quarts water
12.7 ounces dark Dominican rum
Making the Guavaberry Jam
Place the guavaberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, sugar, and water into a large pot.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the berries become very soft and the liquid has reduced significantly. The mixture should thicken into a jam-like consistency while still retaining a small amount of liquid.
Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature.
For guavaberry jam, remove and discard the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries. Transfer the jam to a clean container and refrigerate until chilled. Serve as a dessert topping, spread on toast, biscuits, or crackers, or enjoy alongside cheese and pastries.
Making the Guavaberry Rum Drink
Leave the spices in the cooled guavaberry mixture.
Stir in the dark Dominican rum until fully combined.
Transfer the mixture to a covered container and refrigerate for one week. During this time, the fruit, spices, and rum will blend together, creating a rich and aromatic Caribbean liqueur.
After one week, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the fruit solids and spices.
Pour the strained guavaberry drink into bottles or serving containers and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve chilled as a festive holiday beverage or as an after-dinner drink.
Guavaberry is a beloved Caribbean fruit known for its sweet, tart, and slightly spicy flavor profile.
For a richer flavor, allow the rum mixture to steep for up to two weeks before straining.
Store the guavaberry jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
The strained guavaberry drink can be stored in the refrigerator for several months.
This traditional Caribbean guavaberry recipe makes both a delicious homemade fruit preserve and a flavorful spiced rum beverage.
Must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.
