Puerto Rican cuisine is rich with flavors that reflect its Taino, African, and Spanish influences, but some traditional dishes have been lost over time. Dulce de Grosellas, or Puerto Rican Gooseberry Jam, is one of those hidden gems—a delicacy made with fresh grosellas, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves, creating a jam that’s both sweet and spiced.
In the past, this jam was a staple in many abuelita’s kitchens, used as a spread, dessert topping, or eaten with queso blanco and crackers for a sweet-savory combination. Today, it remains a rare but beloved part of Puerto Rican culinary heritage.
If you’re lucky enough to find fresh grosellas (gooseberries) at a Latin market or grow them yourself, this recipe is a must-try!
What are Grosellas? 🍇
Grosellas, also known as Puerto Rican gooseberries, are small, tart berries that grow in tropical climates. Unlike the European gooseberry, these berries have a slightly firmer skin and a sweet-tart flavor when cooked.
They’re not as commonly found in supermarkets, but if you can get them at a farmers’ market, Caribbean grocery store, or online tropical fruit supplier, you’re in for a true taste of Puerto Rican tradition!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Authentic Puerto Rican Flavor – This jam is made using traditional methods passed down through generations.
✔ Perfectly Balanced – The tartness of grosellas blends beautifully with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves for a deep, rich taste.
✔ Versatile Use – Spread it on toast, crackers, or use as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or cheesecake.
✔ Naturally Preserved – No artificial preservatives—just fruit, sugar, and spices!
How to Serve Dulce de Grosellas
📌 With Queso Blanco & Crackers – A classic Puerto Rican snack!
📌 On Toast or Biscuits – Perfect for breakfast or merienda.
📌 As a Dessert Topping – Drizzle over cheesecake, flan, or ice cream.
📌 In Cocktails – Add a spoonful to a rum cocktail for a fruity, spiced kick.
The Traditional Recipe: Dulce de Grosellas (Puerto Rican Gooseberry Jam)
📌 Prep Time: 10 minutes
📌 Cook Time: 30 minutes
📌 Additional Time: 10 minutes (cooling and jarring)
📌 Total Time: 50 minutes
📌 Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about 30g)
📌 Total Servings: ~22
👉 Full recipe available below!
Dulce de Grosellas (Puerto Rican Gooseberry Jam) Recipe 🍇🍯
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Equipment
- Medium Saucepan For cooking and simmering the gooseberries and sugar.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula To stir the mixture while it thickens.
- Cutting Board & Knife For removing stems and cutting gooseberries (if needed).
- Measuring Cups & Spoons To measure sugar, water, and spices accurately.
- Potato Masher or Fork To help break down the gooseberries as they cook.
- Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional) If you prefer a smoother jam, you can strain out seeds.
- Sterilized Glass Jar(s) with Lid For storing the jam and keeping it fresh.
- Funnel (Optional) – Helps pour the jam into jars without spills.
- Ladle or Large Spoon For transferring the jam into storage jars.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grosellas fresh gooseberries, washed and stems removed
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (helps preserve color and adds brightness)
Instructions
Prepare the Gooseberries:
- Wash the gooseberries thoroughly, removing any stems.2 cups grosellas
- If the berries are large, you can cut them in half to help them break down faster.
Cook the Gooseberries:
- In a medium saucepan, add the gooseberries, water, cinnamon, and cloves.1 cup water, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, 3-4 whole cloves
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once the gooseberries start to soften (about 5-7 minutes), use a spoon or potato masher to gently break them down.
Add the Sugar & Simmer:
- Stir in the brown sugar and lime juice.1 ½ cups brown sugar, 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The jam should start to thicken as the sugar caramelizes and the water evaporates.
Add Vanilla & Adjust Consistency:
- Stir in the vanilla extract (if using).1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- If the jam is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time to loosen it.
- If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
Cool & Store:
- Remove from heat and discard the whole cloves.
- Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to a sterilized glass jar.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Tips & Variations
✅ No Grosellas? Substitute with red or green gooseberries found in some Latin or Asian markets. ✅ Make it Sweeter: Add more sugar if you prefer a thicker, candy-like consistency. ✅ More Spice? Add a pinch of nutmeg or star anise for deeper flavor. ✅ Longer Shelf Life: If you want to preserve it longer, process the jam in a water bath for canning.Nutrition
Ingredient Spotlight: The Magic Behind the Jam
- Grosellas (Gooseberries) 🍇: These small, tart berries are the heart of the recipe. They break down when cooked, releasing their natural juices.
- Brown Sugar 🍯: Adds a deep, caramelized sweetness that complements the tartness of the gooseberries.
- Cinnamon & Cloves 🍂: Warm spices give this jam its signature Puerto Rican flavor, making it more aromatic and rich.
- Lime Juice 🍋: Balances the sweetness and enhances the bright, fruity taste.
- Vanilla Extract (Optional) 🌿: Adds a layer of depth to the flavor, making it even more decadent.
Pro Tips for the Best Dulce de Grosellas
🔥 Cook Low & Slow – Let the jam simmer gently to thicken properly.
🍋 Use Fresh Lime Juice – This prevents crystallization and enhances the flavor.
🥄 Mash or Leave Chunky – Some like their jam smooth, while others prefer bits of fruit—you decide!
🥶 Store it Right – Keep in sterilized glass jars in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Puerto Rican Heritage in Every Bite
Many of Puerto Rico’s traditional recipes are inspired by Spanish, African, and Indigenous flavors, and Dulce de Grosellas is no exception. This recipe was once a household staple, a simple yet flavorful way to preserve fruit without refrigeration.
In today’s fast-paced world, we often overlook these heritage recipes, but making this jam is like taking a culinary trip back in time—a taste of Puerto Rican tradition in every spoonful.
So next time you come across fresh grosellas, don’t pass them up! Try this recipe, share it with family, and keep this delicious tradition alive. 💛
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 recipe! This rare, spiced jam is made with fresh grosellas, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves—perfect for spreading on crackers, pairing with cheese, or using as a dessert topping.){kind=link}