Making apricot strawberry jam is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with sweet, fruity aromas. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners and results in a luscious, thick jam that spreads beautifully on toast. Enjoy the freshness of summer fruits all year round!
Table of Contents
Easy Apricot Strawberry Jam Recipe
Ingredients for Apricot Strawberry Jam
- 8 cups apricots (approx. 2 quarts)
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 7 cups white sugar
- 5 pint canning jars
Essential Equipment for Jam Making
- Large pot (the widest available is recommended for faster evaporation)
- Water bath canner or stockpot
- Jar holder
- Ladle
- Knife
Step-by-Step Apricot Strawberry Jam Instructions
Start by halving the apricots, removing the pits, and trimming any blemishes. Next, wash and sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in a water bath. Keep them warm until you’re ready to use them.
In a large pot, combine the apricots, lemon juice, and sugar. Heat the mixture on medium-high until it starts to boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle boil and cook for about 25 minutes until the mixture thickens. During cooking, skim off any white foam that rises to the top.
Now, ladle the jam into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Use a knife to remove air bubbles by running the blade along the inside of the jar. Wipe the rims clean and place the lids on top.
Prepare a water bath canner with a rack and fill it with water halfway. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Lower the jars into the water using a jar holder, ensuring they do not touch the sides, and that the water covers the tops. Boil for 15 minutes.
After boiling, turn off the heat and transfer the jars to a cloth-covered surface to cool. Once cooled, store your jam in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Perfect Apricot Strawberry Jam
Choose firm apricots that have a slight give, avoiding overripe fruit. Remember, peeling is optional since apricot skins are thin. When adjusting the sugar ratio, keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also aids in setting and mold prevention. If you prefer a thicker texture, consider adding pectin.
Understanding Apricot Pectin and Jam Setting
Apricots are naturally low in pectin, which is why longer cooking times are necessary to achieve the desired thickness. If you find your jam too runny, you can cook it longer or use it creatively in yogurt or ice cream.
Troubleshooting Your Apricot Strawberry Jam
If your jam sets too much, don’t worry! It can be used for cheese boards or as a guava paste style treat. Conversely, if it ends up runny, consider reducing it further in a pan for a thicker consistency.
How to Store Homemade Apricot Strawberry Jam
Sealed jars can last up to one year in a cool, dark pantry. Always check for mold when opening. If there are any leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for a year.
Delicious Ways to Use Apricot Strawberry Jam
This jam is versatile! Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a filling in desserts. It pairs beautifully with cheese platters, enhancing flavors in your favorite dishes. For more dessert inspiration, try making a Strawberry Cheesecake or a Strawberry Ganache Cake Filling.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for apricot strawberry jam?
You will need apricots, lemon juice, and white sugar to make apricot strawberry jam.
How do I make apricot strawberry jam step by step?
Start by halving the apricots and sterilizing jars. Cook apricots with lemon juice and sugar, then ladle into jars and process in a water bath.
Can I make apricot strawberry jam ahead of time?
Yes, you can make apricot strawberry jam ahead of time and store it in sealed jars for up to one year.
How should I store leftover apricot strawberry jam?
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry. Unsealed leftovers can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to a year.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
With this easy apricot strawberry jam recipe, you’ll capture summer’s sweetness in a jar! Explore delicious ways to enjoy your jam, whether as a toast topping or a delightful addition to desserts. For more inspiration, check out this Pinterest page for creative ideas and recipes.
Easy Apricot Strawberry Jam Recipe: A Sweet Delight
Equipment
- large pot
- Water bath canner/stockpot
- Jar holder
- Ladle
- knife
Ingredients
- 8 cups apricots approx. 2 quarts
- â…“ cup lemon juice
- 7 cups white sugar
- 5 pint canning jars
Instructions
- Halve the apricots, remove the pits, and trim any blemishes or bruises.
- Wash and sterilize the jars and lids by boiling them in a water bath and keep them in the bath until ready to use.
- Combine apricots, lemon juice, and sugar in a large pot. Heat on medium-high until boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to a gentle boil and cook for about 25 minutes until thickened, skimming off any white foam that rises to the top.
- Ladle jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles with a knife, wipe rims clean, and place lids on top.
- Place jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they are covered with water. Boil for 15 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and carefully transfer jars to a cloth-covered surface to cool completely. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
