Recipe Apricot Freezer Jam Made Easy and Delicious

Apricot freezer jam is a delightful way to capture the fresh, vibrant flavor of apricots and enjoy it year-round. Unlike traditional cooked jams, freezer jam preserves the bright, natural taste of ripe apricots with minimal cooking, resulting in a spread that’s fresh, sweet, and perfectly spreadable.

This recipe is ideal for those who want homemade jam without the fuss of long boiling or canning processes. It’s quick to prepare, requires few ingredients, and can be stored in your freezer for months, making it a convenient and delicious treat to enjoy anytime.

Whether you’re new to jam making or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this apricot freezer jam recipe will bring a burst of sunshine to your breakfast table, toast, or even desserts. The natural sweetness of apricots combined with just the right amount of sugar and pectin creates a luscious texture that feels like summer in a jar.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can make it at home with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apricot freezer jam recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it requires no cooking, which means the apricots retain their bright color and fresh flavor.

The process is simple and quick, perfect for busy home cooks or those new to jam making.

Freezer jam also offers flexibility—no need for specialized canning equipment or sterilizing jars. You simply store your jam in the freezer and enjoy it within a few weeks or months, making it an ideal choice for small batches or seasonal fruit preservation.

Additionally, apricots are naturally high in pectin, which helps the jam set beautifully without needing excessive sugar. This means you get a deliciously sweet yet balanced jam that captures the true essence of fresh apricots.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh apricots, peeled, pitted, and chopped (about 2 pounds)
• 3 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 package fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell or equivalent)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Potato masher or fork
• Wooden spoon
• Clean pint-sized freezer-safe containers or jars
• Knife and cutting board
• Food processor or blender (optional, for smoother jam)

Instructions

1. Prepare the apricots: Begin by washing, peeling, pitting, and chopping your fresh apricots into small pieces. If you want a smoother jam, pulse the apricots a few times in a food processor or blender, but be careful not to puree completely—some texture is nice.
2. Macerate the fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apricots with the granulated sugar. Stir well, cover, and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps the sugar draw out the fruit’s natural juices.
3. Cook the pectin mixture: In a medium saucepan, bring the water and lemon juice to a boil. Slowly sprinkle the fruit pectin into the boiling liquid while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Boil this mixture for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
4. Combine apricots and pectin: Pour the hot pectin mixture over the sugared apricots. Stir vigorously for 3 minutes to ensure the pectin is thoroughly incorporated. This step is crucial for the jam to set properly.
5. Fill containers: Immediately spoon the jam into clean, freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Seal the containers tightly.
6. Cool and freeze: Let the jam cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then place it in the freezer. The jam will be ready to eat after about 24 hours of freezing but can be stored for up to one year.
7. Thaw before serving: Thaw the jam in the refrigerator overnight before use. Stir well, then enjoy on toast, yogurt, or as a topping for desserts.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use ripe, fragrant apricots that are slightly soft to the touch. Avoid underripe or overly firm fruit.

If you prefer a chunkier jam, skip the food processor and just mash the apricots lightly with a potato masher. For a smoother consistency, blend the fruit more thoroughly.

To reduce sweetness, you can adjust the sugar down to 3 cups, but keep in mind that sugar also helps preserve the jam and affects the texture.

Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground ginger for a unique twist on classic apricot jam. You can also combine apricots with other stone fruits like peaches or nectarines for a mixed fruit freezer jam.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Apricot freezer jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it on warm toast or English muffins for a classic breakfast treat.

It also makes a delightful topping for pancakes and waffles, adding a sweet and fruity touch.

Use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies or swirl it into plain yogurt or oatmeal to brighten your morning bowl. For a simple dessert, serve apricot jam alongside cream cheese and crackers or dolloped over vanilla ice cream.

It can also be incorporated into savory dishes, such as glazing grilled chicken or pork, to add a subtle fruity sweetness.

Conclusion

Making apricot freezer jam is a rewarding and straightforward way to preserve the luscious flavor of fresh apricots. This recipe’s no-cook method ensures that the jam retains the fruit’s natural brightness and sweetness, making it a delightful addition to your pantry.

Whether you’re a jam-making novice or an experienced home cook, this recipe offers a quick, convenient, and delicious way to enjoy apricots all year long.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create a batch of vibrant apricot freezer jam that’s perfect for breakfast, baking, or gifting to loved ones. Give this recipe a try and savor the taste of summer every day.

For more delicious homemade preserves, be sure to check out our Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, Peach Cobbler, and Blueberry Muffin Recipe.

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