Apricot Cherry Jam Recipe For Sweet Homemade Preserves

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of homemade jam, especially when it combines the tartness of cherries with the sweet, floral notes of apricots. This Apricot Cherry Jam Recipe is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer fruits and preserve them for year-round enjoyment.

Whether you’re a jam-making novice or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this recipe will guide you through creating a luscious, spreadable treat that’s bursting with natural sweetness and just the right hint of tang.

Imagine spooning this jam over warm toast, dolloping it into yogurt, or even using it as a glaze for desserts and savory dishes.

Jam-making is not only a fantastic way to reduce food waste by using ripe fruits, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that promises deliciousness ahead. Best of all, this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients and requires minimal equipment, making it accessible for any home cook.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of apricot cherry jam and learn how to make a batch that will soon become a favorite in your pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apricot Cherry Jam boasts a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it versatile and irresistible. The natural pectin in apricots helps the jam set beautifully without needing excessive sugar or artificial additives.

It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought jams that often contain preservatives and high fructose corn syrup.

Additionally, the recipe is straightforward and adaptable. You can easily double the batch for gifting or reduce it for a small household.

Plus, making your own jam is incredibly rewarding—you get to control the sweetness, texture, and even experiment with spices or additional fruits.

Finally, this jam keeps well in sterilized jars, making it a fantastic homemade gift or a staple for cozy breakfasts and creative cooking. If you enjoy other easy homemade recipes, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for a simple meal idea that pairs wonderfully with jam.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added depth)
• 1 packet fruit pectin (optional, for firmer set)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother jam)
• Sterilized glass jars with lids for storing the jam
• Ladle for filling jars
• Jar funnel (optional, for easy filling)
• Pot holders or kitchen towels

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit: Wash the apricots and cherries thoroughly. Pit the cherries and chop the apricots into small pieces. This helps the fruit cook evenly and release its natural juices.
2. Combine fruit and sugar: In your large saucepan, add the chopped apricots, pitted cherries, and granulated sugar. Stir gently to combine and let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This maceration step helps the fruit release its natural sweetness and juices.
3. Cook the fruit mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the fruit and sugar mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer.
4. Add lemon juice and pectin: Stir in the lemon juice and, if using, the packet of fruit pectin. Continue simmering for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lemon juice helps with the jam’s acidity and preservation, while pectin aids in setting the jam.
5. Check for jam set: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Push the jam with your finger — if it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is set. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
6. Optional – strain for smoothness: If you prefer a smoother jam without chunks of fruit, pass the cooked mixture through a fine mesh strainer or use an immersion blender to gently puree it.
7. Fill sterilized jars: Using a ladle and funnel, carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and allow to cool at room temperature.
8. Store and enjoy: Once cooled, store your apricot cherry jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal and store at room temperature for up to a year.

Tips & Variations

“For a special twist, add a teaspoon of grated ginger or a splash of almond extract to the jam during cooking. It enhances the fruity flavors beautifully.”

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to reduce the sugar by up to ¼ cup if you prefer a less sweet jam. Just keep in mind that sugar helps with preservation and setting.
• Use frozen fruit: If apricots or cherries are out of season, frozen fruit can work well. Thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to avoid a runny jam.
• Spiced jam: Add warm spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or cardamom pods during simmering, then remove before jarring.
• Chunky vs. smooth: Decide whether you want a rustic, chunky jam or a smooth spread. For chunky, cook less or roughly mash with a potato masher. For smooth, strain or blend as described above.
• Jam without pectin: If you don’t have pectin, you can still make jam by cooking longer to evaporate more liquid, but expect a softer set.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredient brands and quantities.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant apricot cherry jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it on warm toast or freshly baked scones for a comforting breakfast or snack.

It also pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a charcuterie board, adding a fruity contrast to savory flavors.

Try using it as a glaze for roasted meats, such as pork or chicken, or swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for a naturally sweet boost. For a decadent dessert, spoon it over vanilla ice cream or layer it into cakes and tarts.

If you’re interested in more delicious homemade spreads and savory recipes, don’t miss our Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide and Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide for flavorful meal inspirations.

Conclusion

Making your own apricot cherry jam is a rewarding experience that brings the best of fresh fruit into your kitchen year-round. This recipe combines the luscious sweetness of apricots with the bright tartness of cherries, resulting in a jam that’s perfect for everything from morning toast to gourmet cooking.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create a batch of this delicious preserve.

Beyond its delightful taste, homemade jam is a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal fruit and avoid the additives found in commercial varieties. Whether you gift it to friends or keep it for your own enjoyment, this apricot cherry jam will add a touch of homemade warmth to your meals.

For more easy and tasty recipes to complement your jam-making adventures, explore our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or try out the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Happy cooking and preserving!

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