The Sweet & Tangy Easy Apricot Jam Recipe Anyone Can Make

Sweet summer memories dance through this effortless apricot jam recipe that connects generations of home cooks.

Ripe, sun-kissed fruit bursts with natural sweetness waiting to be preserved.

Family traditions blend with simple techniques anyone can master.

Fragrant apricots transform into a luscious spread that captures seasonal magic.

Kitchen counters become playgrounds of culinary creativity with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

No complicated steps stand between you and homemade deliciousness.

Follow along, and you’ll create a preserve that sings with pure, bright fruit essence.

Best Storage Tips for Homemade Apricot Jam

• Store unsealed or opened jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Keep the jam surface clean and use a fresh utensil each time to prevent contamination.
• Transfer cooled jam to freezer-safe containers, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
• Process jars in a water bath for long-term storage. Sealed jars can remain in a cool, dark pantry for 12-18 months. Check seals periodically and discard if any signs of spoilage appear.

FAQs

• Why do I need to let the apricots sit with sugar for 30 minutes?

This helps the apricots release their natural juices, creating a more flavorful and smoother jam. The sugar also begins to break down the fruit, which helps in achieving a better texture.

• Can I use other fruits instead of apricots?

While this recipe is specifically for apricots, you can adapt it for similar stone fruits like peaches or plums. Just keep in mind that sugar and cooking times might need slight adjustments based on the fruit’s natural sweetness and pectin content.

• What does the lemon juice do in this recipe?

Lemon juice serves two important purposes: it adds a bright flavor and helps the jam set by providing natural pectin. The acid also helps preserve the jam and maintains the fruit’s vibrant color.

• How do I know if my jam is at the right consistency?

Homemade Apricot Jam with a Burst of Flavor

Craft Homemade Deliciousness: Simple steps transform fresh apricots into a delectable spread that tastes worlds better than store-bought versions.

Beginner-Friendly Process: Anyone can master this recipe with basic kitchen skills, making it perfect for novice cooks wanting to try preserving fruit.

Versatile Culinary Companion: Spread this vibrant jam on toast, swirl into yogurt, use as a pastry filling, or gift to friends and family for an impressive homemade treat.

Minimal Ingredient Magic: Requires just a few basic ingredients – apricots, sugar, and lemon juice – creating an authentic, pure flavor without complicated additions.

Ingredients to Whip Up Classic Apricot Jam

• Apricots: Fresh stone fruits that provide the base and natural sweetness for the jam.
• Granulated Sugar: Essential for sweetening and helping the jam set properly.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps with preservation and pectin activation.

• Butter: Optional ingredient that helps reduce foam during cooking and improves texture.

• Sterilized Jars, Sterilized Lids: Necessary for safely storing and preserving the homemade jam.

How to Make Sweet and Tangy Apricot Jam

Step 1: Prepare Apricot Goodness

Rinse fresh apricots under cool water to remove any dirt.

Slice each apricot in half, remove the pit, and chop into small, bite-sized pieces.

Toss the chopped apricots into a large, sturdy cooking pot that will help distribute heat evenly.

Step 2: Create Sweet Magic

• Granulated sugar
• Fresh lemon juice

Gently stir the mixture and let it rest for half an hour.

During this time, the apricots will release their natural juices, creating a flavor-packed base for your jam.

Step 3: Bring the Mixture to Life

Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat.

Stir frequently as the mixture begins to bubble and boil.

This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Simmer and Transform

Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer.

Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Watch as the apricots soften and the liquid thickens into a luscious jam.

This process typically takes 20-30 minutes.

Step 5: Tame the Foam

If foam develops on the surface, skim it off with a spoon.

A small pat of butter can help reduce foam formation if needed.

Step 6: Test Jam Perfection

Prepare a chilled plate by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.

Drop a small amount of jam onto the cold plate.

Return to the freezer briefly.

When you push the jam with your finger, it should wrinkle slightly – this means it’s ready!

If not, continue cooking and test again.

Step 7: Jar Your Delicious Creation

Remove the pot from heat.

Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean, sterilized glass jars.

Leave a small space at the top of each jar.

Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth and seal with sterilized lids.

Step 8: Optional Long-Term Storage

For extended storage, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

This helps create a perfect seal and extends the jam’s shelf life.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Let the jars cool completely at room temperature.

Check that each jar has sealed properly before storing in a cool, dark place.

Enjoy your homemade apricot jam on toast, scones, or as a delightful gift!

Pro Tips for Smooth and Delicious Apricot Jam

• Select fully ripe, soft apricots for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness. Slightly overripe fruits work best for jam-making.
• Adjust sugar amount based on apricot sweetness. Start with less sugar and taste as you cook to maintain the fruit's natural flavor.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot and stir frequently to prevent the jam from sticking or burning at the bottom.
• Use the cold plate method to check jam thickness. The wrinkle test ensures your jam sets perfectly without overcooking.
• Sterilize jars properly and process in a water bath for long-term storage. This prevents bacterial growth and extends jam's shelf life.

Variations to Customize Your Apricot Jam

• No-Sugar Apricot Jam: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative. Adjust quantities to maintain desired sweetness and consistency.
• Low-Pectin Variation: Add commercial pectin or use green apple pieces to help thicken the jam naturally without changing the core flavor profile.
• Spiced Apricot Preserve: Incorporate ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger during cooking to create a warm, aromatic jam with deeper flavor complexity.
• Herbal Infusion Jam: Steep fresh mint, lavender, or rosemary during cooking to introduce subtle herbal notes that complement the apricot's natural sweetness.

Serving Ideas for Apricot Jam Lovers

• Breakfast Bliss: Spread this golden apricot jam generously on warm, crispy toast or freshly baked croissants for a delightful morning treat.
• Pastry Perfection: Swirl the jam into Greek yogurt, use as a filling for thumbprint cookies, or dollop on top of cheesecake for an elegant dessert touch.
• Cheese Companion: Pair this homemade jam with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or goat cheese on a charcuterie board for a sweet and savory combination that will impress guests.
• Culinary Creativity: Mix the jam into salad dressings, glaze grilled meats, or stir into oatmeal for unexpected and delicious flavor variations.

Easy Apricot Jam Recipe

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4.5 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Homemade Apricot Jam delights with ripe summer fruits from Mediterranean orchards. Fresh apricots blend seamlessly with sugar and lemon, creating a spreadable treasure you’ll savor on morning toast.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits:

• 2 pounds (900g) ripe apricots

Sweeteners:

• 4 cups (800g) granulated sugar

Enhancers:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foam)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly cleanse apricots under cool running water, removing any blemishes or dirt.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice apricots in half, carefully remove the pits, and chop into small, uniform pieces.
3. Transfer the chopped apricots into a large, sturdy pot with a heavy bottom to ensure even heat distribution.
4. Pour granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the apricots, gently stirring to coat all fruit pieces.
5. Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, enabling the apricots to release natural juices and macerate.
6. Position the pot on the stove, turning the heat to medium-high and bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil while stirring consistently.
7. Reduce heat to medium, letting the mixture simmer gently, stirring intermittently to prevent scorching.
8. Continue cooking for 20-30 minutes until the apricots soften and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
9. Skim any foam accumulating on the surface, optionally adding a small pat of butter to minimize foam formation.
10. Perform the gel test by placing a chilled plate in the freezer, then dropping a small jam sample onto it.
11. After 2 minutes, push the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles, the jam is ready. If not, continue cooking and retest.
12. Once the desired consistency is achieved, immediately remove the pot from heat.
13. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, maintaining a 1/4 inch headspace.
14. Clean jar rims with a damp, sterile cloth and securely attach sterilized lids.
15. For long-term storage, process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper preservation.
16. Remove jars and allow them to cool completely at room temperature.
17. Verify jar seals before storing in a cool, dark pantry.

Notes

• Use ripe, slightly soft apricots for the best flavor and natural sweetness, ensuring the jam has a rich, intense taste.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic twist that complements the apricot’s natural flavor.
• For a lower sugar version, use pectin or swap some sugar with honey to maintain the jam’s consistency while reducing sweetness.
• Prevent crystallization by stirring the mixture thoroughly and ensuring sugar dissolves completely before bringing to a boil.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 293
• Sugar: 70 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 0.1 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 75 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg