If you’re craving something that perfectly balances fruity sweetness with a nutty crunch, this Apricot Almond Jam Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. It’s a vibrant, luscious jam where ripe apricots meet warm cinnamon and crunchy almonds, creating a spread that’s as delightful on your morning toast as it is dolloped onto desserts. What’s truly wonderful about this jam is how it combines simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a beloved staple for any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this jam is refreshingly straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building that signature taste and texture. From the mellow sweetness of ripe apricots to the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of almonds, every element is essential.
- 2 pounds ripe apricots, pitted and halved: The star of the show providing juicy, natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the tartness and helps the jam set with a perfect glossy finish.
- ½ cup chopped almonds: Adds a delightful texture contrast and nutty depth to the jam.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses subtle warmth and aromatic spice that complements the apricots beautifully.
- 1 packet (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin: The magic ingredient that ensures your jam achieves the ideal thick, spreadable consistency.
How to Make Apricot Almond Jam Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your fresh apricots, sugar, chopped almonds, ground cinnamon, and powdered fruit pectin into a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Combining them at once allows flavors to meld and sets the stage for the cooking magic to come.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, stirring constantly. This not only dissolves the sugar but also activates the pectin, which is key to thickening the jam properly. Keep stirring to prevent the jam from sticking or burning at the bottom.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the jam simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. During this time, the apricots will soften and release their juices, blending seamlessly with the cinnamon and almonds to create that inviting texture and rich, sweet-nutty aroma.
Step 4: Cool Slightly Before Serving
After simmering, remove the pan from the heat and give the jam a few minutes to cool. This resting phase allows it to thicken a bit more and makes it easier to spoon out. Your delightful homemade apricot almond jam is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Apricot Almond Jam Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers or a tiny dash of ground cinnamon on top of your jam can elevate its presentation and enhance its natural flavors. Fresh apricot slices alongside can also create a beautiful and inviting look.
Side Dishes
This jam pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or buttery croissants. It also makes a fantastic topping for creamy yogurts, plain ice cream, or even sharp cheeses like Brie or goat cheese, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
Creative Ways to Present
Try swirling this apricot almond jam into your morning oatmeal or pancake batter for a burst of flavor. It also shines as a filling in thumbprint cookies or layered into parfaits for a fresh, nutty twist. The possibilities are as endless as your creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your apricot almond jam to a clean, airtight jar and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to three weeks, maintaining its rich flavors and wonderful texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the jam beyond a few weeks, freezing is a fantastic option. Store it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion. Frozen jam can last up to six months and will thaw quickly when moved to the fridge.
Reheating
When you’re ready to use frozen jam, gently reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its silky, spreadable perfection. Avoid boiling again, as this can change the jam’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apricots for this jam?
Absolutely! Frozen apricots work just fine as long as they’re thawed beforehand. Keep in mind they may have a bit more water content, so you might need to cook the jam slightly longer to achieve the right thickness.
Is it possible to make this jam without almonds?
Yes, omitting almonds will still yield a delicious apricot jam—but the almonds add a special crunchy texture and nutty flavor that make this recipe uniquely delightful.
How long does homemade apricot almond jam last refrigerated?
When stored properly in a sealed container, this jam will last for about three weeks in the refrigerator, keeping its freshness and flavor intact.
Can I adjust the sweetness level in this recipe?
Definitely. You can reduce or increase the sugar slightly depending on your preference or the natural sweetness of your apricots. Just be aware this might affect the jam’s set since sugar interacts with pectin.
What is the best way to check if the jam has set properly?
Try the “wrinkle test” by placing a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate and letting it cool for a minute. Push it gently with your finger—if it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s set perfectly!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about making your own jam, and this Apricot Almond Jam Recipe brings that warmth straight to your table with simple, wholesome ingredients and a bright, inviting flavor profile. Whether you’re new to jam-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe invites you to create something special that always feels like a little celebration. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite spread to share with friends and family.
Print
Apricot Almond Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Jam and Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apricot Almond Jam is a delightful homemade preserve featuring ripe apricots combined with crunchy almonds and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for spreading on toast or adding a fruity touch to desserts, this jam is quick to prepare and cooked on the stovetop, resulting in a sweet and aromatic treat.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe apricots, pitted and halved
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup chopped almonds
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 packet (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the apricots, sugar, chopped almonds, ground cinnamon, and powdered fruit pectin. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning and ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
- Simmer the Jam: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the jam simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan and to help the flavors meld.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly before serving. The jam will thicken more as it cools, perfect for spreading on breads or incorporating into recipes.
Notes
- Use fully ripe apricots for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Chopped almonds add a delightful crunch, but you can omit or substitute with other nuts if desired.
- Stirring constantly while boiling is essential to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.
- The jam can be stored in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, consider proper canning methods to preserve the jam safely.
