Quick & Sweet: The Perfect Apricot Jam Recipe Everyone Loves

Sweet summer memories often bloom unexpectedly with an easy apricot jam that captures sunshine in a jar.

Ripe golden fruits burst with natural sweetness, waiting to be transformed into a delectable spread.

Fragrant kernels and tender flesh combine in a simple process that anyone can master.

Kitchen counters transform into culinary playgrounds when you start chopping these vibrant orbs.

Pectin and sugar dance together, creating a luscious mixture that preserves the essence of warm afternoons.

Jars stand ready to capture each spoonful of golden nectar, promising delightful moments of pure pleasure.

You’ll fall in love with this straightforward technique that turns fresh apricots into liquid gold.

Spread this jam on warm toast and savor the pure, unadulterated joy of homemade goodness.

All The Ingredients For Apricot Jam Success

• Apricots: Ripe, sweet stone fruits that provide the primary flavor and texture for the jam.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps with natural pectin activation to support jam setting.

• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with preservation and thickening of the jam.

• Canning Jars, Lids, Rings: Essential for safely storing and preserving the homemade apricot jam.
• Boiling Water Bath: Ensures proper sealing and extends the shelf life of the jam.

Steps To Quick Homemade Apricot Jam Today

Step 1: Prepare Delightful Apricots

Rinse the apricots thoroughly under cool running water.

Remove the pits by slicing the fruits in half and gently pulling out the stones.

Chop the apricot halves into small, uniform pieces using a sharp knife.

Step 2: Create Fruity Base

Grab a large, heavy-bottomed pot and transfer the chopped apricots into it.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fruit to enhance flavor and help with preservation.

Step 3: Sweeten the Mixture

• Granulated sugar
• Wooden spoon

Gradually add sugar to the apricot mixture.

Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a smooth and glossy texture.

Step 4: Bring to Bubbling Excitement

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

Stir the mixture constantly to prevent sticking or burning.

Allow the contents to reach a full, rolling boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Continue boiling the jam, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

Watch for the mixture to reduce and thicken, which typically takes about 25-30 minutes.

The jam will start to look glossy and slightly more viscous.

Step 6: Remove and Skim

Take the pot off the heat.

Use a metal spoon to skim off any foam that has formed on the surface of the jam.

Step 7: Jar the Goodness

Carefully pour the hot jam into clean, sterilized canning jars.

Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion.

Step 8: Seal and Process

Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a proper seal.

Attach the lids and rings.

Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to create a secure seal.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely at room temperature.

You’ll hear a satisfying pop as the lids seal.

Store in a cool, dark pantry and enjoy your homemade apricot jam for months to come.

Tips For Apricot Jam You’ll Love To Share

• Select perfectly ripe, fragrant apricots for the most intense and sweet flavor, avoiding overripe or underripe fruits.
• Adjust sugar quantity based on the natural sweetness of apricots, reducing sugar for naturally sweet fruits or adding more for tart varieties.
• Check jam thickness by placing a small plate in the freezer, then dropping a spoonful of jam to see if it wrinkles when pushed, indicating proper setting.
• Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning, which can create bitter flavors.
• Ensure jars are completely sterilized and use new lids to prevent contamination and extend the jam's shelf life for several months.

Creative Ways To Change Up Apricot Jam

• Low-Sugar Apricot Jam: Replace half the sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or use sugar-free pectin for a diabetic-friendly version.
• Spiced Apricot Spread: Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger during cooking to create a warm, aromatic jam with complex flavors.
• Herbal Apricot Preserve: Infuse the jam with fresh mint, lavender, or rosemary for an unexpected herbal note that enhances the fruit's natural sweetness.
• Boozy Apricot Jam: Splash in some bourbon, rum, or amaretto during the final stages of cooking to add depth and richness to the preserve.

Serving Apricot Jam On Toast Or Treats

• Breakfast Bliss: Spread this golden apricot jam generously on warm, crispy toast or freshly baked croissants for a delightful morning treat.
• Sweet Pastry Companion: Swirl the jam into yogurt, use as a filling for thumbprint cookies, or layer between cake layers for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Cheese Board Magic: Pair this homemade jam with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or goat cheese to create a stunning appetizer that will impress guests at any gathering.
• Gifting Delight: Package the jam in cute mason jars with ribbon or twine, making it a perfect homemade gift for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

Keeping Apricot Jam Tasting Perfect Longer

• Transfer cooled jam to airtight glass containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. Keep away from direct sunlight and strong odors.
• Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1/2 inch space for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for 6-12 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
• Properly sealed and processed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for 12-18 months. Check seals periodically and discard if any signs of spoilage appear.
• Gently warm small portions in a microwave or saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Avoid overheating to maintain jam's fresh texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen apricots for this jam?

Yes, you can use frozen apricots. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before chopping and cooking.

• How long will this homemade apricot jam last?

When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, the jam can last up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3-4 weeks.

• Do I need special equipment to make this jam?

You’ll need a large pot, wooden spoon, sterilized jars, and a boiling water bath or canning pot. Basic kitchen tools work fine for this recipe.

• Why add lemon juice to the jam?

Lemon juice helps activate the pectin, ensures proper gel formation, and adds a bright flavor while helping preserve the jam’s color and consistency.

Apricot Jam Recipe Freshness In Every Jar

• Craft Homemade Delights: Create a delicious apricot jam that brings the sweet essence of summer right into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Beginner-Friendly Cooking: Perfect for novice cooks, this recipe requires simple techniques and basic ingredients that anyone can master without advanced culinary skills.
• Versatile Preservation Method: Transform fresh apricots into a long-lasting spread that can be enjoyed on toast, used in baking, or given as a thoughtful homemade gift to friends and family.
• Budget-Conscious Treat: Prepare a large batch of jam using seasonal fruits, saving money compared to store-bought versions while controlling sugar content and ingredient quality.

Easy Apricot Jam Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 10 1x

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Description

Homemade Apricot Jam brings sunshine to your breakfast table, dancing with sweet and tangy flavors. Summer’s golden fruit combines with sugar and lemon, creating a simple spread you’ll savor on toast or bake into delightful pastries.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits:

• 8 cups (2 quarts) apricots

Sweeteners:

• 7 cups white sugar

Acidic Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup lemon juice

Additional:

• 5 canning jars (1 pint each)

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Instructions

1. Meticulously cleanse and remove pits from apricots, then create fine, uniform pieces using a sharp knife.
2. Transfer chopped apricots into a spacious, heavy-bottomed cooking vessel and introduce fresh lemon juice.
3. Incorporate granulated sugar gradually, gently stirring until completely integrated and crystals dissolve smoothly.
4. Position pot on stove and elevate temperature to medium-high, allowing mixture to transition into a rolling boil while continuously stirring to prevent scorching.
5. Maintain vigorous boiling, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, and monitor consistency transformation for approximately 25-30 minutes until jam reaches desired thick, glossy texture.
6. Carefully extract pot from heat source and delicately remove any accumulated foam using a clean spoon.
7. Utilize sterilized glass canning containers, gently pouring molten jam while maintaining precise 1/4 inch clearance from container rim.
8. Meticulously cleanse jar edges with immaculate cloth, secure pristine lids, and submerge sealed containers in rapidly bubbling water bath for precise 10-minute processing.
9. Allow jars to rest undisturbed at ambient temperature, ensuring complete cooling before transferring to storage location.

Notes

• Choose ripe, slightly soft apricots for maximum natural sweetness and best flavor intensity.
• Keep stirring constantly to prevent burning and ensure even sugar caramelization during cooking.
• Test jam’s readiness by placing a small amount on a cold plate – it should wrinkle when pushed with a finger, indicating proper gel consistency.
• Reduce sugar content for a more tart preserve by using low-sugar pectin or cutting sugar by 25% without compromising preservation quality.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 62 g
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg