Delicious Homemade Apricot Jam

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Delicious Homemade Apricot Jam.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering your fresh apricots, and give them a good wash. Once they’re clean, pit and finely chop them. You should have about 2 1/2 pounds of these juicy gems. In a large pot, combine the chopped apricots with 1/3 cup of lemon juice and 5 3/4 cups of white sugar. Stir everything together over medium heat, and don’t forget to add 1/2 teaspoon of butter to help reduce foaming. This little trick will keep your jam looking beautiful!

2. Step 2

   As the mixture heats up, keep stirring until it comes to a rolling boil. This is where the magic happens! Once it’s boiling, quickly stir in the powdered fruit pectin. You’ll want to return it to a full boil and let it bubble away for about 1 minute, ensuring the pectin is fully dissolved. Then, remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface with a metal spoon. This will give your jam a nice, clear finish.

3. Step 3

   While your jam is cooling a bit, it’s time to prepare your jars. Sterilize them along with their lids by placing them in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial for preserving your jam. Once sterilized, pack the hot apricot jam into the jars, filling them to within 1/4 inch of the top. To avoid any air bubbles, run a knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars after filling. Wipe the rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue, then top with lids and screw on the rings.

4. Step 4

   Next, you’ll need a large stockpot for processing the jars. Place a rack in the bottom and fill the pot halfway with water. Bring it to a boil, then carefully lower your filled jars into the pot using a jar holder. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each jar. If needed, pour in more boiling water until it covers the tops of the jars by at least 1 inch. Cover the pot and process for 5 minutes to seal everything in.

5. Step 5

   Once the time is up, carefully remove the jars from the stockpot and place them on a cloth-covered or wooden surface, leaving several inches between each jar. Let them cool for at least 24 hours. After cooling, press the top of each lid with your finger to ensure a tight seal. If the lid doesn’t move up or down, you’ve done it right! Keep in mind that it may take up to 2 weeks for your jam to fully set, so be patient. Store your delicious apricot jam in a cool, dark area, and enjoy the taste of summer all year round!