There’s something truly special about homemade jam that store-bought just can’t match. Our apricot cherry jam recipe combines the sweet, sunny flavor of apricots with the tartness of cherries to create a perfectly balanced spread. It’s a delightful way to capture the essence of summer fruit all year round.
Making jam from scratch might sound intimidating but with our simple steps, we’ll guide you through the process effortlessly. This recipe uses fresh ingredients and just the right amount of sugar to highlight the natural fruit flavors while giving you that classic jam texture. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or using it in desserts, this apricot cherry jam will quickly become a pantry favorite.
Ingredients
To make our Apricot Cherry Jam, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients to bring out the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Below is the list of ingredients, arranged in the order we use them, along with key preparation notes:
- Fresh apricots – 3 cups, pitted and chopped
- Fresh cherries – 2 cups, pitted and halved
- Granulated sugar – 4 cups (adjustable based on fruit sweetness)
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed (helps with natural pectin and preservation)
- Pectin – 1 tablespoon (optional, for thicker consistency)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh apricots | 3 cups | Pitted and chopped | Choose ripe yet firm apricots |
| Fresh cherries | 2 cups | Pitted and halved | Sweet or tart cherries can be used |
| Granulated sugar | 4 cups | Measured accurately | Adjust for sweetness preference |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed | Enhances flavor and natural pectin |
| Pectin | 1 tablespoon | Optional | Ensures jam thickens properly |
By using these high-quality, fresh fruits and precise measurements, we ensure each batch of our Apricot Cherry Jam bursts with vibrant summer flavors anytime you enjoy it.
Equipment Needed
To make our Apricot Cherry Jam perfectly every time, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here’s a detailed list of the tools we rely on for a smooth jam-making process:
- Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot
We use this for cooking the fruit mixture evenly, preventing burning as it thickens.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Silicone Spatula
For stirring the jam continuously, helping the flavors meld and ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy is key, so we measure fruits, sugar, and lemon juice precisely.
- Fruit Peeler and Knife
To pit, halve, and chop fresh apricots and cherries easily and uniformly.
- Canning Jars with Lids and Bands
We sterilize these jars to safely store our jam and preserve its vibrant flavors.
- Jar Funnel
Helps pour the hot jam into jars without mess or waste.
- Ladle
Ideal for transferring jam from pot to jar carefully.
- Candy or Jam Thermometer
Ensures the jam reaches the proper temperature (around 220°F) for perfect set and preservation.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves or Jar Tongs
To handle hot jars safely during the canning process.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot | Even cooking of fruit mixture |
| Wooden Spoon / Silicone Spatula | Stirring jam without scraping pot |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Fruit Peeler and Knife | Preparing apricots and cherries |
| Canning Jars & Lids | Sterile storage and preservation |
| Jar Funnel | Neat filling of jars |
| Ladle | Transferring jam smoothly |
| Candy/Jam Thermometer | Monitoring jam temperature for perfect set |
| Heat-Resistant Gloves / Jar Tongs | Safe handling of hot jars |
By assembling this essential equipment upfront, we set ourselves up for a seamless jam-making experience. Each tool plays a critical role in capturing the fresh, vibrant taste of summer in our apricot cherry jam.
Prep Work
To ensure our Apricot Cherry Jam turns out perfectly, proper preparation of the fruit and equipment is essential. Let’s walk through the key steps to get everything ready.
Preparing the Apricots
- Start by washing 3 cups of fresh apricots thoroughly under cold running water.
- Use a sharp knife to cut each apricot in half and remove the pits carefully.
- Chop the pitted apricots into small, even pieces—about ½-inch cubes—for consistent cooking and texture.
- Placing the chopped apricots in a bowl, cover and set aside until ready for the jam pot.
Pitting and Chopping the Cherries
- Rinse 2 cups of fresh cherries under cold water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Using a cherry pitter or a small knife, carefully pit each cherry to avoid juice loss.
- Slice the cherries in half to release their flavors more evenly during cooking.
- Collect the pitted and halved cherries in a bowl, preparing them to combine with apricots.
Sterilizing Jars and Lids
Proper sterilization prevents spoilage and preserves freshness. Follow these steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Clean Jars & Lids | Wash jars and lids with hot soapy water, rinse thoroughly. |
| 2. Boil | Submerge jars and lids in boiling water for 10 minutes. |
| 3. Dry | Place jars upside-down on a clean towel to air dry. |
| 4. Keep Warm | Keep jars in a warm oven (around 200°F) until filling. |
Tip: Use heat-resistant gloves or jar tongs to remove sterilized jars safely and maintain their sterility.
With the fruit perfectly prepped and jars sterilized, we are ready to begin crafting our vibrant and delicious Apricot Cherry Jam.
Making the Apricot Cherry Jam
Let’s transform our prepped apricots and cherries into a luscious, flavorful jam. We will carefully follow each step to capture the perfect texture and balance of sweetness and tartness.
Cooking the Fruit Mixture
Begin by placing the 3 cups of pitted and chopped apricots and 2 cups of pitted and halved cherries into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the fruit over medium heat, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula. As the fruit warms, it will begin to soften and release its natural juices.
Maintain a gentle simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes, breaking down larger chunks to help the fruit blend smoothly. This slow cooking enhances the melded flavor of apricots and cherries while preserving their vibrant color and aroma.
| Step | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Heat fruit mixture | 10-15 minutes | Simmer gently until fruit softens and breaks down |
| Stir | Continuous | Stir often to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking |
Adding Sugar and Pectin
Once the fruit mixture has softened nicely, gradually add 4 cups of granulated sugar while stirring continuously to dissolve the sugar fully. The sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps to set it and extend shelf life.
Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Lemon juice balances the sweetness and acts as a natural preservative, intensifying the jam’s bright flavor.
If using, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of pectin now. Pectin aids in thickening and helps the jam achieve that perfect spreadable consistency.
Continue stirring and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil — a boil that cannot be stirred away.
Testing the Jam for Doneness
To ensure our apricot cherry jam sets correctly, we perform the classic “plate test.” This simple method confirms that the jam will thicken properly once cooled.
- Place a small spoonful of hot jam onto a chilled plate.
- Allow it to sit for a minute, then gently push it with your finger.
- If the surface wrinkles and does not flood back together, the jam is ready.
- If it remains runny, continue boiling for another 2-3 minutes and test again.
| Test Step | Result indicating doneness |
|---|---|
| Wrinkle on plate | Jam is ready |
| No wrinkle, runny | Continue boiling and retest |
Handling the jam carefully and monitoring the boiling time helps us lock in the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and spreadability for our homemade apricot cherry jam.
Canning and Storing
Proper canning and storing methods are essential to preserving the vibrant flavors of our Apricot Cherry Jam. Following these steps ensures safety, freshness, and a delicious taste that lasts.
Filling and Sealing Jars
- Use a sterilized jar funnel to pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace at the top to allow for expansion.
- Remove air bubbles by running a non-metallic spatula or chopstick around the inside edge of the jar.
- Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp paper towel to ensure a tight seal.
- Place the sterilized lids on the jars, securing them with screw bands until they are fingertip tight — not overly tightened.
“Ensuring clean rims and proper headspace is key for a secure seal and preventing spoilage.”
Processing in a Water Bath
- Submerge jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch.
- Process pint jars for 10 minutes and quart jars for 15 minutes at a rolling boil.
- Start timing only after the water has returned to a full boil.
- After processing, carefully remove the jars using jar tongs and place them on a towel or cooling rack.
- Let jars cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours until lids have sealed with a slight concave surface and a “pop” sound when pressed.
| Jar Size | Processing Time (Boiling Water Bath) |
|---|---|
| Pint | 10 minutes |
| Quart | 15 minutes |
Storing and Shelf Life
- Label jars with the date of canning.
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark, and dry place such as a pantry or cupboard.
- Properly processed jam can be stored up to 12 months.
- Once opened, keep jam refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks for best taste and quality.
- Regularly check sealed jars for any signs of spoilage like bulging lids, leakage, or off smells before use.
Serving Suggestions
Our Apricot Cherry Jam is a versatile delight that enhances many dishes with its vibrant, sweet-tart flavor. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this rich jam:
- Spread on Toast or Biscuits: Warm your favorite bread then spread a generous layer of apricot cherry jam for a quick and flavorful breakfast or snack.
- Swirl into Yogurt or Oatmeal: Add a spoonful to plain yogurt or hot oatmeal to infuse a burst of fruity sweetness and a touch of natural tang.
- Pair with Cheese: The jam’s balanced sweetness pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or cream cheese—perfect for charcuterie boards or appetizers.
- Glaze for Meats: Use the jam as a glaze on roasted chicken, pork, or ham to add a fruity gloss and rich flavor complexity.
- Dessert Topping: Drizzle warm apricot cherry jam over ice cream, pound cake, or pancakes for a decadent finish.
Flavor Profile Table
| Serving Idea | Taste Enhancement | Ideal Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Toast or Biscuits | Adds sweetness and fruitiness | Butter, cream cheese |
| Yogurt or Oatmeal | Introduces tangy sweetness | Granola, fresh nuts |
| Cheese Pairing | Balances creamy and tangy | Brie, goat cheese, sharp cheddar |
| Meat Glaze | Adds caramelized fruit notes | Roasted chicken, pork, ham |
| Dessert Topping | Complements creamy desserts | Vanilla ice cream, pancakes, pound cake |
“A spoonful of apricot cherry jam turns ordinary meals into memorable moments.”
We recommend storing the jam chilled once opened to maintain its fresh jammy flavor and enjoy it best within a few weeks. Experiment with these suggestions to discover your favorite combination of flavors and textures with our Apricot Cherry Jam.
Tips and Variations
To craft the perfect Apricot Cherry Jam, consider these tips and exciting variations that enhance flavor, texture, and versatility.
Tips for Perfect Jam Making
- Balance Sweetness and Tartness
Adjust sugar levels depending on your fruit’s ripeness. If your apricots and cherries are very sweet, reduce sugar to 3 cups for a lighter jam. For tarter fruit, keep the sugar closer to 4 cups to ensure proper preservation and flavor balance.
- Use Fresh, Ripe Fruit
Always choose fresh, ripe apricots and cherries for vibrant flavor and natural sweetness. Overripe or underripe fruit will affect jam consistency and taste.
- Test Jam Consistency
Perform the classic plate test:
- Place a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate.
- Tilt the plate after 2 minutes.
- If the jam wrinkles slightly and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
If it’s still runny, cook a few minutes longer, then test again.
- Stir Frequently to Prevent Burning
Use a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to stir constantly during sugar addition and boiling to prevent jam from sticking or burning on the pot’s surface.
- Store Properly After Opening
Once opened, refrigerate the jar and consume the jam within 3 to 4 weeks for optimal freshness and flavor.
Variations to Customize Your Jam
| Variation | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spiced Apricot Cherry | Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon or a star anise pod during cooking for warm spice. | Remove star anise before jarring. |
| Herbal Infused Jam | Stir in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh basil or thyme at the end. | Adds a savory note, great with cheeses. |
| Low-Sugar Version | Use 3 cups sugar and 2 tablespoons additional lemon juice to aid preservation. | Use powdered pectin to maintain texture. |
| Chunky or Smooth | For chunky jam, roughly chop fruit. For smooth jam, pulse cooked fruit with a hand blender. | Adjust cooking time accordingly. |
| Alcohol-Infused Jam | Stir in 1/4 cup bourbon or brandy after cooking off-heat. | Adds depth, perfect for gifts or desserts. |
Bonus Tip: Freezing Jam
If you want to skip canning, freeze your jam in freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving space for expansion. Frozen jam maintains flavor for up to 6 months and thaws beautifully without losing texture.
“Experimentation is the key to making truly personalized and memorable homemade jams.”
Let’s keep these tips and variations in mind as we craft your delicious Apricot Cherry Jam, tailoring it to your palate and occasion.
Conclusion
Making apricot cherry jam lets us capture the best of summer’s bounty in a jar. With just a few simple ingredients and tools, we can create a delicious spread that brightens breakfasts and snacks alike. The process is rewarding and opens the door to endless flavor variations.
By mastering this recipe, we’re not only preserving fresh fruit but also adding a personal touch to our kitchen creations. Whether we enjoy it on toast, paired with cheese, or as a glaze, this jam brings vibrant, balanced sweetness and tartness to every bite. Let’s keep experimenting and savoring the unique flavors we craft together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Apricot Cherry Jam?
To make Apricot Cherry Jam, you need fresh apricots (3 cups, pitted and chopped), fresh cherries (2 cups, pitted and halved), granulated sugar (4 cups, adjustable), freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 tablespoons), and optional pectin (1 tablespoon) for thicker jam.
Is making jam from scratch difficult?
No, making jam from scratch is easy. The process involves simple steps like preparing fruit, cooking with sugar and lemon juice, and proper canning, which anyone can follow with the right tools and instructions.
How do I prepare the fruit for jam?
Wash, pit, and chop the apricots and cherries into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking and better flavor release during jam preparation.
Why is sterilizing jars important?
Sterilizing jars prevents spoilage and contamination, ensuring your jam remains fresh and safe to eat for an extended period.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
Use the “plate test”: place a small amount of jam on a cold plate, let it cool, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s ready.
What equipment do I need for jam making?
You need a large heavy-bottomed pot, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, measuring cups and spoons, fruit peeler and knife, sterilized canning jars with lids, jar funnel, ladle, candy thermometer, and heat-resistant gloves or jar tongs.
How should I store the finished jam?
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and consume the jam within a few weeks for best taste.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
Yes, sugar amounts can be adjusted based on the sweetness of the fruit to suit your taste preferences without compromising preservation.
What are some ways to serve Apricot Cherry Jam?
Serve it on toast or biscuits, mix into yogurt or oatmeal, pair with cheese, use as a glaze for meats, or drizzle over desserts like ice cream and pancakes.
Are there any variations to the Apricot Cherry Jam recipe?
Yes, you can try spiced or herbal-infused versions, low-sugar options, chunky textures, or add alcohol for unique flavor twists. Frozen jam can also be stored for up to six months.