Name: Caramel Apple Jam Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups apples (peeled, cored, and chopped; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended); 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re a fan of autumn flavors, this Caramel Apple Jam is a must-try! With the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and buttery richness, this jam brings the cozy, comforting vibes of caramel apples right into your kitchen. Whether you spread it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or drizzle it over your favorite desserts, this jam will elevate anything you pair it with. The process of making it is simple and the result is a jar of pure indulgence.

The combination of fresh apples, caramelized sugar, butter, and warming cinnamon is like a fall day in a jar. This recipe is all about transforming basic ingredients into a delicious spread that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for preserving the essence of fall to enjoy throughout the year, and it also makes a fantastic homemade gift. Let’s dive into this dreamy, sweet, and slightly spiced Caramel Apple Jam!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The tartness of apples is beautifully balanced by the caramelized sugar and the rich depth of butter, creating a flavor profile that’s both sweet and comforting.

2. Simple Ingredients

You only need a handful of basic ingredients—apples, sugar, butter, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract—to create a jam that tastes like autumn in a jar.

3. Versatile Use

This Caramel Apple Jam is so versatile. Use it on toast, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or even as a filling for pastries and cakes. The possibilities are endless!

4. Fall Flavors Year-Round

This jam captures all the cozy flavors of fall, and with proper storage, you can enjoy them year-round, whether it’s the middle of winter or the peak of summer.

5. Perfect for Gifting

In small jars, this jam makes an adorable and thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family, especially during the holidays or special occasions.

Ingredients

Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
Sugar
Butter
Cinnamon
Lemon juice
Vanilla extract

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the jam for a little extra warmth and spice.
Caramelized Apple Jam with Rum: For a more decadent flavor, you can add a tablespoon of dark rum to the jam as it simmers.
Apple Pear Jam: Mix in some pears for a fruitier and slightly different take on the classic caramel apple jam.
No Added Sugar: If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just be aware this will slightly alter the flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. This helps them break down more easily when cooking, creating that jammy texture.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, cinnamon, and sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and begin to release their juices.

Step 3: Caramelize the Sugar

As the apples soften, the sugar will start to melt and caramelize. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the mixture reaches a deep golden color and the apples are well-coated in the caramel sauce.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla

Once the sugar has caramelized, stir in the lemon juice to balance out the sweetness. Add the vanilla extract and give it one final stir. This will round out the flavors and bring everything together.

Step 5: Blend the Jam (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée the mixture until smooth. For a chunkier texture, leave it as is.

Step 6: Simmer to Thicken

Continue cooking the jam over low heat for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. Keep in mind that the jam will thicken further as it cools.

Step 7: Jar the Jam

Once thickened, remove the jam from the heat. Pour it into sterilized jars while still hot, seal them, and allow the jam to cool. If you’re planning to store it for long-term use, follow proper canning procedures.

Step 8: Let it Cool and Store

Once cooled, your Caramel Apple Jam is ready to enjoy! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or follow proper canning instructions for longer storage.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Choose the Right Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor. They provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sugar and caramel.
Monitor the Heat: Caramelizing sugar requires attention—too high of a heat can cause the sugar to burn. Keep the temperature moderate and stir frequently.
Thickening Tip: If the jam doesn’t seem to be thickening, try adding a small amount of pectin or simmering it for a little longer to achieve the desired consistency.
Jar Storage: Make sure to sterilize your jars before storing the jam, especially if you plan to can it. This helps preserve the jam for longer periods.

How to Serve

Caramel Apple Jam is delicious on toast, but its uses don’t stop there! Here are a few ideas for serving it:

On Toast or English Muffins: Spread it on warm, buttered toast for a cozy breakfast.
In Pastries: Use it as a filling for croissants, Danish pastries, or turnovers for a sweet treat.
As a Topping: Spoon it over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for an extra touch of sweetness.
On Ice Cream: Drizzle it over vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert.
With Cheese: Pair it with sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie for a savory-sweet snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Caramel Apple Jam in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing it in jars.

Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze the jam. Just make sure to leave some room at the top of the jar for expansion as it freezes. It will keep for up to 6 months in the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat your Caramel Apple Jam, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until it’s spreadable again. Stir occasionally to ensure an even texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of apples for this jam?

Yes, you can use other apples like Gala or Fuji, but tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balancing out the sweetness.

2. How can I thicken the jam if it’s too runny?

If your jam isn’t thickening, you can add a little pectin or continue simmering it to reduce the liquid and thicken the texture.

3. Can I make this jam without butter?

You can omit the butter if you prefer, though it does help achieve that silky caramel texture. You can replace it with a little more apple juice or a non-dairy butter alternative.

4. How long does this jam last?

When stored properly in sterilized jars and refrigerated, this Caramel Apple Jam can last up to 3 weeks. For longer shelf life, consider canning it.

5. Can I can this jam for long-term storage?

Yes! If you follow proper canning procedures, you can preserve this jam for up to a year in a cool, dark place.

6. Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup as a substitute for sugar, but the caramelization and flavor may differ slightly.

7. Is this jam good for gifting?

Yes, this Caramel Apple Jam makes an excellent homemade gift! Just make sure to use sterilized jars and label them with the date for your recipients.

8. Can I add more spices to the jam?

Absolutely! You can add nutmeg, allspice, or ginger for a more complex flavor, depending on your preferences.

9. Can I make this jam without vanilla extract?

Yes, but the vanilla adds a lovely layer of flavor. If you don’t have it, the jam will still taste great, though it may be a bit less complex.

10. How do I know when the jam has thickened enough?

The jam should coat the back of a spoon and have a spreadable consistency. You can also test it by placing a small spoonful on a plate and letting it cool to see if it holds its shape.

Conclusion

This Caramel Apple Jam is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a rich, buttery texture and a warm cinnamon flavor that’s perfect for fall. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make a batch of this dreamy jam to enjoy all year long. Whether you spread it on toast, top your desserts with it, or give it as a homemade gift, this Caramel Apple Jam will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite!