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Classic Apricot Preserves

Breakfast 🍳Dessert 🍰Side Dish 🥗Snack 🍿 Low-SodiumGluten-FreeVegetarian 🥦Vegan 🌱Plant-Based 🌻Halal 🕌Kosher ✡️Pescatarian 🐟

Classic Apricot Preserves capture the bright, sunny sweetness of ripe apricots balanced with a gentle citrus tang. Smooth yet slightly pulpy, it spreads beautifully on toast, swirls into yogurt, or pairs with cheeses for brunch or afternoon tea. This jarred treat highlights pure fruit flavor without distractions, perfect for gifting or stocking your pantry.

  • Prep20 mins
  • Cook40 mins
  • Serves50
  • DifficultyEasy
Classic Apricot Preserves
  1. 1

    Gather the ingredients.

  2. 2

    Combine the apricots and lemon juice in a large pot over medium heat; add sugar and slowly bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

  3. 3

    Keep cooking and stirring until the apricot mixture thickens, about 25 minutes. Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the top if needed.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, prepare five 1-pint jars with lids and rings by cleaning and sterilizing them in the dishwasher or in a boiling water bath. Leave the lids in simmering water until you are ready to seal the jars.

  5. 5

    Ladle the hot jam into the hot sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Run a knife or thin spatula around the inside edges of the filled jars to release any air bubbles.

  6. 6

    Wipe the jar rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Place the lids on top and screw on the rings.

  7. 7

    Set a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill the pot halfway with water. Bring to a boil, then carefully lower the jars into the pot with a holder, leaving 2 inches between jars. Add more boiling water if needed until the water is at least 1 inch above the jar tops. Return to a full boil, cover, and process for 15 minutes.

  8. 8

    Lift the jars out of the stockpot and place them on a cloth-covered or wooden surface, spaced several inches apart, until cool. Once cool, press the center of each lid to ensure the seal is tight and the lid does not move up or down. Store in a cool, dark place.