Ultimate Apple Pie Jam Recipe

If you’re looking for a way to capture the essence of apple pie in a jar, look no further than this Apple Pie Jam recipe. The combination of freshly diced apples, warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, and the sweetness of brown and granulated sugar results in a jar full of comfort, reminiscent of cozy autumn days. Whether you’re planning to gift it to friends, use it to top your morning toast, or simply add it to your canning collection, this Apple Pie Jam Recipe is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe even better is that it’s incredibly easy to make. Using basic ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have homemade jam ready to enjoy in no time. Plus, the process of canning it ensures you can preserve it for months, making it a great addition to your pantry. In this article, I’ll guide you through each step of the process, from preparation to storage, and offer tips and tricks along the way.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Jam Recipe

This Apple Pie Jam recipe is packed with everything you love about the classic dessert. The Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness, while the spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg) bring that cozy, comforting flavor you associate with apple pie. The lemon juice adds just the right amount of acidity to balance the sweetness of the sugar, and the unsalted butter gives the jam a smooth, velvety texture.

Making this jam is not only a fun and satisfying project, but it’s also an excellent way to preserve the freshness of apples long after the harvest season. Once the jam is ready, it can be used in so many ways: spread on toast, swirled into yogurt, drizzled over ice cream, or used as a filling for pastries.

If you love making your own jams and preserves, consider trying other fruit jams like Peach Jam or Strawberry Jam for even more delicious homemade treats.

Ingredients Breakdown and Measurements

To make this Apple Pie Jam Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups peeled, diced apples (I used a mixture of Granny Smith and Pink Lady)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (I used bottled)
• 1 ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 box pectin (1.75 ounces)
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon unsalted butter

These simple ingredients combine to create a sweet, spicy jam with the perfect consistency that mimics the flavors of a freshly baked apple pie.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Pie Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Canning Setup

Before you start cooking the jam, it’s important to prepare your canning setup. First, fill a boiling-water canner with water, making sure it’s about ¾ full, and bring it to a simmer. This will be used to process the jars later on.

Next, wash your jars and screw bands in hot soapy water, then rinse them thoroughly with warm water. To sterilize the jar lids, pour boiling water over the flat lids in a saucepan off the heat and let them stand in the hot water until you’re ready to use them.

This process is essential to ensure that all the jars and lids are clean and safe for canning.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Dice your apples and place them into a 4-cup measuring cup. Fill the measuring cup with water to the top to cover the apples. Once the apples are prepped, transfer them to a 6-8 quart pot.

Add the following to the pot:

• Ground cinnamon
• Ground ginger
• Ground nutmeg
• Lemon juice
• Unsalted butter
• Pectin

Stir everything together and bring it to a full rolling boil. This ensures that the apples and spices are well combined and heated through.

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Step 3: Add the Sugars

Once you have your apple and spice mixture boiling, it’s time to add the sugar. Slowly stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar, ensuring it dissolves completely. Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil for 1 minute, making sure to stir constantly to prevent it from boiling over.

This step is crucial because the sugars need to fully dissolve and combine with the fruit mixture for the right consistency. It also helps with setting the jam once it’s cooled.

Step 4: Skim the Foam

After the boiling time, remove the pot from the heat. Use a metal spoon to skim off any foam from the surface of the jam. This step is important to ensure the jam has a smooth, glossy finish and that any impurities are removed.

Step 5: Ladle the Jam into Jars

Now that your Apple Pie Jam is ready, it’s time to fill the jars. Ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top of each jar. Wipe the rims and threads of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal.

Place the flat lids on top of the jars and screw on the bands tightly, but not overly tight—just enough to hold the lids in place.

Step 6: Process the Jars

Place the filled jars on an elevated rack in the canner. Lower the rack into the simmering water, making sure the jars are covered by 1 to 2 inches of water. Cover the canner and bring the water to a gentle boil. Process the jars for 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed and sterilized.

Once the jars have processed, carefully remove them and place them upright on a towel to cool completely.

Step 7: Check the Seals

Once the jars are completely cooled, check the seals by pressing the centers of the lids with your finger. If the lids spring back, the jars are not sealed properly, and you’ll need to refrigerate them. Properly sealed jars should have a vacuum seal and won’t pop back when pressed.

The result is 6 half-pint jars of delicious homemade Apple Pie Jam!

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Tips for Perfecting Apple Pie Jam Recipe

To make sure your Apple Pie Jam turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips:

• Use firm apples: Apples like Granny Smith and Pink Lady are ideal because they hold their shape and provide a good balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Don’t overcook the jam: If you cook the jam for too long, it can become too thick or caramelized. Stick to the recommended cooking times for the best results.
• Check your pectin: Make sure the pectin you use is fresh, as expired pectin can affect the setting of the jam.
• Avoid overcrowding the jars: Be sure to leave enough space at the top of the jars (about ¼ inch) to allow for expansion during processing.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Pie Jam Recipe

While Apple Pie Jam is a delicious treat on its own, there are many ways to use it. Here are some ideas:

• Spread it on toast or muffins for a sweet breakfast or snack.
• Swirl it into oatmeal for an extra boost of flavor.
• Use it as a filling for pastries, such as apple hand pies.
• Serve it with cheese: It pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie.

For even more canning ideas, check out our strawberry jam or peach jam recipes to expand your homemade jam collection!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Apple Pie Jam Recipe can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year if sealed properly. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you make a larger batch, you can always use a vacuum sealer to keep it fresh for longer.

If you want to reuse your Apple Pie Jam, simply heat it in a saucepan over medium-low heat until it reaches the desired consistency. It’s perfect for serving with breakfast or using as a topping for desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this jam without pectin?
Yes, but the jam may be more syrupy and less set without the pectin. You can increase the cooking time slightly to allow the jam to thicken naturally.

Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can try adding pears, apricots, or even berries for a fun twist on the traditional apple pie flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the jam vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or omit it altogether. You can also use a vegan-friendly pectin.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Apple Pie Jam Recipe recipe is a perfect way to bring the taste of fall into your kitchen year-round. With its sweet, spiced flavors and smooth, jammy consistency, it’s a delightful treat for breakfast, snacks, or even as a gift for loved ones. Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make jam from scratch!

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