Caramel Apple Jam
A delightful jam that captures the essence of autumn with sweet caramel and tart apples, perfect for spreading or pairing with various dishes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.
- 2 cups granulated sugar For caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Provides warmth and spice.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Elevates the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens flavor and prevents browning.
Possible Substitutions
- 2 cups brown sugar or coconut sugar Adds a unique flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar For a tangy twist instead of lemon juice.
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel, core, and chop 4 cups of fresh apples.
- Squeeze some lemon juice over them to prevent browning.
Cooking
- In a large pot, combine the chopped apples with 2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the apples soften, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Mash the apples slightly with a potato masher for chunky texture, or blend them for a smoother consistency.
- Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until it reaches your desired thickness.
Jarring
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top.
- Seal with lids and allow to cool completely before storing in the fridge.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or a splash of apple cider while cooking. Incorporate chopped pecans into the jam just before jarring for added elegance.