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Easy Homemade Apricot Jam Recipe Small Batch Perfect for Beginners

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A simple, beginner-friendly small batch apricot jam recipe that delivers fresh, authentic fruit flavor with minimal ingredients and fuss. Perfect for quick homemade preserves without large quantities or special equipment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean or extract (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foaming)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry about 1 pound (450 grams) of fresh apricots. Cut in half, remove pits, and chop into small chunks.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apricots, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons water. Add vanilla extract or seeds from half a vanilla bean if using. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring every few minutes to encourage even cooking and prevent burning.
  5. Test for set by placing a spoonful of jam on a cold plate chilled in the fridge. After cooling, push the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles and holds shape, it is ready. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
  6. Optionally skim off any foam that forms during cooking. Adding butter early can reduce foam.
  7. Remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes. Pour into a sterilized glass jar or container and let cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Notes

Do not rush the simmer or use high heat to avoid burning. Frequent stirring is essential. Use ripe but firm apricots for best texture and natural pectin. The cold plate test is the best way to check jam set. Butter helps reduce foam but is optional. Jam thickens more as it cools. Store refrigerated and consume within three weeks. Frozen apricots can be used but may alter texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: apricot jam, homemade jam, small batch jam, easy jam recipe, beginner jam recipe, fruit preserves, apricot preserves