Spring has sprung! The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the markets are overflowing with fresh, seasonal produce. One of my favorite things about this time of year is the abundance of juicy, ripe apricots. And what better way to celebrate these “little bursts of sunshine” than by capturing their flavor in a jar of homemade jam?
This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple. It takes a little over an hour to make, but the end result is a pantry staple that you'll be reaching for all year long.
Now let’s get started!
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 1 hr 20 min
Serving: 12 jars
What you’ll need:
- 5 lbs apricot
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 4lbs granulated sugar
Directions:
- Wash the jars and lids. If washing by hand, use hot, soapy water and rinse them well.
- Rinse the apricot and pat dry, and remove any dirt. Then, cut them in half and remove the stones.
- Add apricot, water, and lemon juice into the saucepan and boil it.
- Cover the pot and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until tender.
- Add sugar and stir well until dissolved. Increase the heat and boil until the liquid is finished.
- When the jam looks thicker, turn off the heat.
- Allow it to stand for 10 minutes.
- Transfer it to the sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly.
- Store the jam in a cool, dark place.
- Always use a clean, dry spoon to avoid contamination when using the jam. After opening a jar, as a further precaution, store it in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories 682, Protein 3g, Carbohydrate 173g, Fat 1g, Sugar 169g
Don't let their sweetness fool you! Apricots are also a good source of vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision.
Tips:
- For a smoother apricot jam, you can use an immersion blender to puree the apricots after they have softened.
- If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add a little more sugar to taste.
- Get creative with your flavors! Add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom to the jam for a unique twist.
- If your jam isn't setting properly, it could be due to not reaching a high enough temperature during cooking. Simply bring the jam back to a boil and continue simmering for a few more minutes.
- If your jam becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water and bring it back to a simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.
Bonus: This homemade apricot jam also makes a wonderful homemade gift! Package it in a cute jar with a decorative ribbon, and you have a thoughtful and delicious present for friends, family, or neighbors.
Serving suggestions:
Spread your homemade apricot jam on toast, muffins, or scones for a delicious breakfast treat. Use it as a filling for croissants, danishes, or turnovers for a sweet and flaky pastry. Add a dollop to yogurt, ice cream, or oatmeal for a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness. Glaze grilled chicken, pork, or fish with the jam for a tangy and flavorful twist.
I hope you enjoy this easy jam recipe as much as I do! With a little bit of effort, you can create a jar of homemade apricot jam that is bursting with flavor and perfect for enjoying all year round.
Keywords: homemade apricot jam, spring recipe, apricot season, canning, preserving, breakfast ideas, canning recipes, spring flavors, homemade jam recipe, easy jam recipe, homemade gifts, food gifts
