Craving the taste of homemade jam but short on time? This Quick Apple Jam is your answer! In less than 30 minutes, you can transform fresh apples, sugar, and warm cinnamon into a cozy spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or pastries. This small-batch recipe fills just one jar, making it ideal for quick enjoyment or to pop in the freezer for later.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Jam Recipe:
- 30-Minute Miracle: From chopping to jarring, it’s incredibly fast.
- Small-Batch Perfection: Makes one perfect jar—no huge canning commitment required.
- Freezer-Friendly: Preserve that homemade flavor for up to 2 months.
- No Pectin Needed: Apples naturally thicken this jam for you.
- Pantry Staples: Made with simple ingredients you likely already have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze this apple jam?
A: Absolutely! This jam freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before storing it in a freezer-safe container.
Q: Do I need to use pectin?
A: No! Apples are naturally high in pectin, which thickens the jam perfectly on its own.
Q: How do I know when the jam is done?
A: The jam is ready when the apples have broken down and the liquid has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. Just note that the cooking time may increase slightly.
Q: How should I use this jam?
A: It’s incredibly versatile! Spread it on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or scones. Swirl it into oatmeal or yogurt, or use it as a sweet filling for pastries and thumbprint cookies.
How to Freeze Apple Jam: A Simple Guide
The best part of this small-batch recipe? You can always have a jar on hand. Freezing is simple and ensures you have homemade jam whenever the craving strikes.
How to Freeze Your Jam:
- Cool Completely: This is the most important step. Never freeze jam while it’s still warm. Let it cool to room temperature to prevent ice crystals and a soggy texture.
- Choose a Freezer-Safe Container: A glass jelly jar (leave ½-inch of headspace for expansion), a small plastic freezer-safe container, or a heavy-duty freezer bag all work well.
- Label and Date: Always write the contents and date on the container. Your frozen jam will be at its best quality for up to 2 months.
- Freeze: Place the container upright in the freezer.
Thawing Your Jam:
- Best Method: Transfer the jar from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Quick Method: For a faster thaw, submerge the sealed container in a bowl of cool water for 30-40 minutes.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerator: Fresh jam will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: For best flavor and texture, use frozen jam within 2 months.
- After Thawing: Once thawed, stir the jam to reconstitute the texture and use it within 3-4 days.
Quick Apple Jam
Ingredients
Method
- Prep apples – Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks.
- Cook apples – In a saucepan over medium heat, add apples, sugar, brown sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Simmer – Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft.
- Mash or blend – Use a potato masher for a rustic texture, or an immersion blender for a smooth jam.
- Jar it – Spoon jam into a clean small jelly jar. Let cool completely.
- Store – Refrigerate up to 1 week, or freeze up to 2 months. To use from freezer, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Notes
- Sweeter jam → Add up to ¾ cup sugar.
- Chunky jam → Leave some apple pieces unmashed.
- Smooth jam → Blend until silky.
- Apple variety → Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji make sweeter jam. Granny Smith makes it more tart.
