Caramel Apple Jam is a delightful spread that captures the essence of autumn in a jar. Its rich, buttery flavor combined with the tartness of apples makes it a versatile treat that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether spread on toast, dolloped on pancakes, or swirled into yogurt, this jam offers a taste of fall that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Additional Time:
8 hrs
Total Time:
9 hrs
Servings:
48
Yield:
8 half-pint jars
Ingredients
To make Caramel Apple Jam, you’ll need:
6 cups of peeled, cored, and chopped apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. They provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
2 cups granulated sugar: This is essential for sweetness and helps with the jam’s preservation.
1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like flavor.
1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and provides acidity, which is important for the jam’s texture and preservation.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the apple flavor with a warm, spicy note.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a silky texture and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
1 package (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin: Helps the jam set properly.
Instructions
Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and break down nicely during the jam-making process.
Cook the Apples: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped apples and granulated sugar. Stir well to coat the apples with sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples release their juices and become soft, about 10-15 minutes.
Make the Caramel Base: In a separate saucepan, melt the brown sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to bubble. This should take about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn. Once caramelized, remove from heat and carefully add the caramel mixture to the cooked apples. Stir well to combine.
Add Spices and Lemon Juice: Stir in the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. These ingredients will enhance the flavor of the jam and help it set.
Incorporate Pectin: Following the instructions on the fruit pectin package, add the pectin to the apple mixture. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Boil for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency. To test the consistency, place a small spoonful of jam on a plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; it should hold its shape.
Jar the Jam: Sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight.
Process the Jars: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly. The water should cover the jars by at least an inch. After processing, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a clean towel or rack. You should hear a satisfying “pop” as the jars seal.
Store: Once cooled, check the seals by pressing in the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar hasn’t sealed properly and should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Serving Suggestions
Caramel Apple Jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it on a warm slice of bread, use it as a filling for pastries, or drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a special breakfast treat. It also makes a wonderful gift when presented in decorative jars.
Enjoy the comforting taste of Caramel Apple Jam year-round, and savor the sweet and rich flavors of autumn with every bite
