If you’re looking to capture the pure, sun-kissed flavor of summer with an elegantly nutty twist, Apricot Almond Jam might just become your new kitchen favorite. This vibrant preserve balances the tart brightness of ripe apricots with the gentle crunch and aroma of toasted almonds. A whisper of almond extract lifts the whole experience, transforming a humble fruit spread into something downright luxurious. Whether smeared on fresh baguette or dolloped over yogurt, this Apricot Almond Jam is genuinely irresistible and bound to brighten up any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Fresh Apricot Jam:
- 4 cups fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup water
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon powdered fruit pectin (optional for thicker consistency)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (lightly toasted)
How to Make Apricot Almond Jam
Step 1: Prep the Fresh Fruit
Start by rinsing your apricots, then halve, pit, and chop them into small pieces. There’s no need to peel unless you prefer a super-smooth finish, but the skin adds both flavor and color. The fresher and riper your apricots are, the more naturally sweet and vibrant your jam will become.
Step 2: Cook Down the Fruit
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine your chopped apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Set the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. You’ll notice the apricots start to soften and surrender their juices, filling your kitchen with an amazing, summery aroma.
Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low, then let the mixture bubble away, stirring frequently. Expect this part to take about 25 to 30 minutes. As the apricots break down, your jam will thicken and the flavors will concentrate. If you like a thicker, more classic consistency, sprinkle in the powdered fruit pectin for the final 5 minutes of cooking and stir it in well.
Step 4: Add Almond Magic
Take the pan off the heat. Now, stir in the almond extract and the toasted slivered almonds. The extract infuses the jam with that unmistakable, delicate almond nuance, while the slivered nuts add a welcome bit of texture. Taste and swoon a little—it’s hard not to!
Step 5: Jar and Store Your Apricot Almond Jam
Allow your jam to cool slightly before carefully spooning it into sterilized jars. If you’ll enjoy it within three weeks, simply seal and refrigerate. For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes. Either way, you’ll have jars of sunshine ready to brighten any breakfast table or gift basket.
How to Serve Apricot Almond Jam
Garnishes
Dressing up your Apricot Almond Jam is as simple as a sprinkle of extra toasted almonds or a touch of lemon zest on top. Both not only look stunning but also highlight the jam’s key flavors and textures in each bite.
Side Dishes
This jam is a showstopper with warm, crusty bread, flaky croissants, or homemade scones. It’s also a dreamy companion to a cheese or charcuterie board—pair it with creamy brie, tangy goat cheese, or good cheddar for a combination that’s as pretty as it is palate-perfect.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond toast! Drizzle Apricot Almond Jam over vanilla ice cream, swirl into yogurt or oatmeal, or tuck it between layers of a simple cake. For edible gifts, package in small jars with a ribbon and a handwritten label for a truly memorable personal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, Apricot Almond Jam keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Just make sure your jars are sterilized before filling and always use a clean spoon to avoid introducing any bacteria.
Freezing
If you’d like to make extra for the months ahead, this jam can be frozen without worry. Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Label and freeze for up to six months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Reheating
Jam doesn’t technically need to be reheated, but if you prefer it a bit runnier for drizzling over desserts, simply warm the amount you need gently in a saucepan or microwave for a few seconds. Give it a quick stir and you’re set.
FAQs
Can I use dried apricots instead of fresh?
While fresh apricots are key to the jam’s bright, juicy flavor, you can use dried in a pinch. Soak them in warm water until plump, then chop and proceed as normal. You may need to tweak the sugar a bit since dried fruit is often sweeter.
Is it necessary to add powdered fruit pectin?
No, you can skip the pectin if you like a softer, more old-fashioned jam. Fresh apricots are naturally high in pectin, especially when slightly under-ripe, so you’ll still get a satisfying set without it.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
Absolutely, though less sugar can affect both the sweetness and the shelf life. Taste your apricots first—if they’re already super sweet, start with less sugar and add more to taste as you cook.
How do I make a smoother jam?
For a silkier texture, blend your apricots before cooking or use an immersion blender right in the pot after the fruit has cooked down. Just take care when blending hot mixtures, and give it a few big pulses to maintain a bit of texture if you like.
Will the almonds stay crunchy in the jam?
The slivered almonds will remain pleasantly firm for a while, adding texture without being hard or chewy. Over time, they may soften slightly, but they’ll always bring a little something special to every spoonful.
Final Thoughts
If you love preserves with a twist, Apricot Almond Jam is absolutely worth trying. Every batch feels like a small celebration of summer, ready to bring a dash of sunshine and a handful of heartwarming, nutty flavor to your table. Pop open a jar soon—you just might find yourself making it on repeat!
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Apricot Almond Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delight your taste buds with this homemade Apricot Almond Jam that perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe apricots with a hint of almond flavor. Ideal for spreading on toast, pastries, or even as a glaze for meats, this vegan jam is a versatile and delicious addition to your pantry.
Ingredients
Fresh Apricot Jam:
- 4 cups fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup water
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon powdered fruit pectin (optional for thicker consistency)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (lightly toasted)
Instructions
- Cook Apricot Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Simmer until thick.
- Add Almond Flavor: Stir in almond extract and toasted almonds.
- Cool and Preserve: Let the jam cool, then transfer to jars for refrigeration or processing.
Notes
- For a smoother jam, blend apricots before cooking.
- Adjust sugar based on fruit ripeness.
- Pectin is optional, especially with naturally high pectin fruits.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
