Fruit preserves are a type of food made by cooking fruits with sugar and sometimes acid, such as lemon juice. This process helps to enhance the fruit's natural flavors while also extending its shelf life. The mixture is typically cooked until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency, allowing it to be used as a topping for bread, pancakes, or desserts. There are various types of fruit preserves, including jams, jellies, and marmalades. Each type differs in texture and ingredients; for example, jams contain crushed fruit, while jellies are made from fruit juice. These delicious spreads are popular for their sweet taste and versatility in cooking.