Apple Pie Jam

Apple Pie Jam is a delightful twist on a classic treat that captures the essence of fall in every jar. This homemade jam showcases the rich flavors of apples, cinnamon, and spices, making it perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or giving as thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re preserving your apple harvest or simply looking for an easy way to enjoy seasonal flavors year-round, this Apple Pie Jam recipe checks all the boxes.

PinPin

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices gives this jam a warm and inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on breakfast items, desserts, or even as a unique ingredient in savory dishes.
• Gift-Ready: Homemade jam makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family during the holiday season or any special occasion.
• Long Shelf Life: When canned properly, this jam can last for up to 18 months.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Apple Pie Jam, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Canning jars (half pint)
• Canning lids and bands
• Water bath canner or large pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for combining ingredients and allows ample space for boiling without overflow.
• Canning jars: Necessary to store your jam safely; they create a seal that preserves freshness.
• Water bath canner: Ensures proper processing of jars for long-term storage.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create your homemade Apple Pie Jam:

Fruit Base

• 8 cups peeled and diced apples (about 6 apples) – I recommend using Granny Smith green apples.
• 2 cups apple juice – I recommend using organic.

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 small lemon, zest and juice
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• pinch of salt

Spices

• 3 tbsp pectin
• 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Sweetener

• 3 cups white granulated sugar

Pin

How to Make Apple Pie Jam

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and tools before starting. This makes the cooking process easier.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot on the stove:
1. Combine diced apples, apple juice, lemon zest and juice, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high to high heat.

Step 3: Cook Apples Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low:
1. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the apples become tender.

Step 4: Add Spices and Pectin

Once the apples are tender:
1. Stir in the remaining spices.
2. Gradually sprinkle pectin over the top while stirring continuously.

Step 5: Boil with Sugar

Increase heat back to high:
1. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil before adding sugar all at once.
2. Once boiling hard, set a timer for 1 minute while stirring continuously to avoid scorching.

Step 6: Prepare for Canning

Remove from heat:
1. You can either spoon the jam into jars for refrigeration or proceed with water bath canning.

Water Bath Canning Instructions:

If you choose to can your jam:
1. Ladle jam into approximately 5 half pint jars leaving about ¼th to ⅓rd inch headspace.
2. Remove air bubbles and wipe jar rims clean.
3. Place new lids and bands on jars; process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust time based on altitude).
4. Remember not to start timing until water reaches a full rolling boil.
5. After processing, turn off heat; let jars rest in warm water for 5 minutes before removing them onto a towel.
6. Allow cooling undisturbed for about 24 hours until all lids have sealed.

Store sealed jars in a cool dry location for optimal quality up to 12-18 months! If any jars do not seal properly, simply refrigerate them and consume within 2-4 weeks.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Pie Jam!

How to Serve Apple Pie Jam

Apple Pie Jam is a versatile treat that can enhance many dishes. Its sweet and spiced flavor profile makes it perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or even desserts. Here are several delightful ways to serve this homemade jam.

On Toast or Bread

• Classic Spread: Slather Apple Pie Jam on warm toast or fresh bread for a comforting start to your day.
• French Toast Topping: Use it as a topping for French toast to add a delicious twist to this breakfast favorite.

With Cheese

• Cheese Board Addition: Pair Apple Pie Jam with sharp cheeses like cheddar for a sweet and savory combination.
• Cream Cheese Dip: Mix the jam with cream cheese for an easy dip served with crackers.

In Desserts

• Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle Apple Pie Jam over vanilla ice cream for a quick and tasty dessert.
• Pancake Filling: Use it as a filling in pancakes or waffles to make breakfast extra special.

For Gift Giving

• Homemade Gifts: Package the jam in decorative jars to give as gifts during the holiday season or at gatherings.

How to Perfect Apple Pie Jam

Making the perfect Apple Pie Jam requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Apples: Always opt for fresh Granny Smith apples, as they provide the right tartness needed for balance.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key in canning. Measure your ingredients carefully to ensure proper texture and flavor.
• Add Spices Gradually: Introduce spices slowly, tasting as you go, so you can adjust according to your preference.
• Check Gel Point: To confirm if your jam has reached the right consistency, use a cold plate test – place a spoonful on a chilled plate and see if it holds its shape.
• Properly Seal Jars: Ensure that jar rims are clean before sealing; this helps in achieving a proper vacuum seal during canning.
• Store Correctly: Keep sealed jars in a cool, dark place and avoid direct sunlight to preserve their quality over time.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Jam

Apple Pie Jam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet spread perfectly.

1. Savory Biscuits: Flaky biscuits offer a buttery contrast to the sweetness of Apple Pie Jam. Serve warm for best results.
2. Oven-Baked Brie: Top brie cheese with Apple Pie Jam before baking for an indulgent appetizer that’s sure to impress.
3. Charcuterie Board Items: Include cured meats and nuts alongside the jam for a balanced charcuterie experience.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of apple pie.
5. Pork Chops: A glaze made from Apple Pie Jam adds depth and sweetness when brushed on grilled or baked pork chops.
6. Garden Salad: Drizzle some jam mixed with olive oil over salad greens for an unexpected yet delicious dressing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Pie Jam can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong apples – Always choose tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor. Sweet apples may lead to overly sugary jam.
• Skipping the pectin – Pectin is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Using less or none can result in runny jam.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision matters in jam-making. Use measuring cups and spoons for correct proportions.
• Ignoring cooking times – Cooking for too long can burn your jam, while not enough time can lead to undercooked fruit. Follow the recommended times closely.
• Neglecting sterilization – Ensure jars are properly sterilized before filling them with jam to prevent spoilage.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Pie Jam in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It lasts up to 2 weeks when refrigerated.
• Use clean utensils each time you scoop out jam to maintain freshness.

Freezing Apple Pie Jam

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some headspace for expansion.
• Homemade jam can be stored frozen for up to 1 year.
• Label containers with the date of freezing for easy tracking.

Reheating Apple Pie Jam

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and warm until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Place jam in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Apple Pie Jam thicker?

To thicken your Apple Pie Jam, ensure you use enough pectin as indicated in the recipe. If it’s still too thin after cooking, you can add a little more pectin during the boiling stage.

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can mix them with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a different flavor profile.

How long does homemade Apple Pie Jam last?

Homemade Apple Pie Jam can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator and about 1 year if frozen properly.

Can I preserve Apple Pie Jam using water bath canning?

Yes! Water bath canning is ideal for preserving this jam. Follow proper canning guidelines to ensure safety and quality.

Final Thoughts

Apple Pie Jam is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it on toast, as a filling for pastries, or even as a gift. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other spices or fruits to suit your taste!