Description
This Caramel Apple Jam recipe captures the cozy essence of autumn with tender apple chunks, warm spices, and a buttery caramel finish. It’s a delicious spread perfect for toast, desserts, or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups (about 6–7 medium) apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 4 cups (800 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) water
- ¼ cup (60 ml) lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra caramel flavor)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz / 49 g) fruit pectin
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and finely dice the apples into small, even pieces.
- Cook the apples: Combine apples, water, and lemon juice in a large pot. Simmer over medium heat until apples begin to soften, about 10 minutes.
- Add sugar and spices: Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and sugar dissolves.
- Caramelize: Add the butter and continue cooking until the mixture develops a rich golden-brown hue, resembling caramel.
- Add pectin: Sprinkle in the fruit pectin, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a rolling boil and cook for 1–2 minutes until the jam reaches the gel stage (220°F / 104°C).
- Test the jam: Drop a spoonful onto a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready. Cook a few more minutes if needed and test again.
- Jar the jam: Ladle the hot caramel apple jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids.
- Cool and store: Let jars cool at room temperature. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or process in a water bath canner for long-term storage.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness.
- Don’t skip lemon juice; it balances flavor and prevents crystallization.
- Cook in a wide pot for faster thickening.
- Stir often to prevent sticking and scorching.
- Always test for doneness using the chilled plate or thermometer method.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Condiment, Jam, Spread
- Method: Stovetop, Canning
- Cuisine: American, Fall-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1–2 tablespoons