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Classic Apricot Preserves

Breakfast 🍳Dessert 🍰Side Dish 🥗Snack 🍿 Low-SodiumHeart-Healthy ❤️Gluten-FreeVegetarian 🥦Plant-Based 🌻Halal 🕌Kosher ✡️Pescatarian 🐟

Classic Apricot Preserves capture the sun-kissed sweetness of ripe apricots brightened with a hint of lemon, yielding a lush, spreadable texture. The butter keeps foam in check while pectin ensures a consistent set, perfect for toast, pastries, or swirling into yogurt. Serve at breakfast or as a refined addition to cheese boards when you want a fruity accent.

  • Prep15 mins
  • Cook30 mins
  • Serves56
  • DifficultyMedium
Classic Apricot Preserves
  1. 1

    Combine the sugar, apricots, and lemon juice in a large pot over medium heat; add the butter to reduce foaming. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Quickly stir in the pectin; return to a full boil and cook until the pectin is dissolved, 1 minute. Remove from the heat; skim off any foam with a metal spoon.

  2. 2

    Check the jars for cracks and the rings for rust, discarding any defective ones. Sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Pack the apricot jam into hot, sterilized jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the inside of each jar to release any air bubbles. Wipe the rims with a damp paper towel to remove any residue. Place the lids on and screw the rings on tightly.

  4. 4

    Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill it halfway with water. Bring the water to a boil and lower the jars, spaced 2 inches apart, into the boiling water using a holder. Add more boiling water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Remove the jars from the stockpot and set them on a cloth-covered or wooden surface, several inches apart, and let them rest for at least 24 hours. Press the center of each lid with a finger to confirm the seal is tight (the lid should not move up or down). The jam may take up to 2 weeks to set. Store in a cool, dark place.