Easy Homemade Caramel Apple Jam Recipe for Sweet Moments

Sweet memories burst forth when crafting this delightful caramel apple jam that captures autumn’s warmth in every spoonful.

Crisp orchard apples mingle with rich caramel notes, creating a spread that speaks to comfort and nostalgia.

Fragrant cinnamon whispers through each batch, promising depth beyond simple sweetness.

Homemade preserves carry magic that store-bought versions never capture.

Simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary with patient stirring and love.

Smooth and golden, this jam invites you to drizzle it over morning toast or swirl into yogurt.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Jam

• Apples: Sweet and crisp base that provides the primary flavor and texture for the jam.

• Water: Helps soften the apples during cooking.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps prevent sticking.

• Pectin: Natural fruit-based ingredient that helps jam set and achieve the desired consistency.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and contribute to the jam's caramel-like depth.

• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Classic warm spices that enhance the apple's natural flavor and create a cozy taste profile.

• Half-Pint or Pint Jars, Lids: Essential for preserving and storing the homemade jam safely.

How to Make Homemade Caramel Apple Jam

Step 1: Tenderize Apple Chunks

Grab a spacious stockpot and toss in diced apples, water, and butter. Gently simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples transform into soft, delectable pieces.

This process typically takes around 10 minutes and helps break down the fruit’s texture.

Step 2: Activate Pectin Power

Sprinkle pectin into the tender apple mixture.

Stir vigorously and bring the concoction to a vigorous, rolling boil. Keep stirring continuously to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sweeten and Spice

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg

Return the mixture to a robust boil and maintain for one minute, stirring constantly. This step helps meld the flavors and create a rich, caramel-like consistency.

Step 4: Jar and Prepare

Remove the jam from heat and skim off any foam that has formed. Carefully ladle the hot mixture into sterilized glass jars, leaving a small space at the top.

Eliminate air bubbles, clean jar rims, and secure lids.

Step 5: Water Bath Processing

Submerge sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

This crucial step ensures preservation and safety.

Step 6: Cool and Preserve

While cooling, gently twist jars to evenly distribute apple pieces.

Store in a cool, dark location. Refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness.

Pro Tips for Smooth and Sweet Caramel Apple Jam

• Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture in your caramel apple jam.
• Stir constantly during boiling to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization of sugars.
• Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing to create a proper seal.
• Enhance the jam's depth by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth.
• Enjoy the jam within one year for maximum freshness and optimal taste, storing in a cool, dark pantry until opened.

Variations on Caramel Apple Jam

• Caramel Pear Paradise: Swap apples with ripe pears for a silky smooth texture and subtle sweetness, maintaining the same caramel and spice profile.
• Gluten-Free Fruity Fusion: Use certified gluten-free pectin and confirm all ingredients are gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Low-Sugar Wellness Blend: Reduce sugar content by using natural sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, creating a lighter jam option for health-conscious individuals.
• Spiced Autumn Harvest: Experiment with additional warming spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance the seasonal flavor complexity and create a more robust taste experience.

Pairing Ideas for Apple Jam

• Pair with Warm Baked Goods: Spread this luscious jam on freshly toasted brioche, croissants, or homemade buttermilk biscuits for a decadent breakfast treat.
• Complement with Aged Cheese: Serve alongside sharp cheddar, creamy gouda, or tangy blue cheese to create a delightful sweet-savory balance that highlights the jam's rich caramel notes.
• Match with Warming Beverages: Enjoy with a steaming mug of spiced chai tea, cinnamon-infused coffee, or a smooth bourbon to enhance the jam's warm, autumnal flavors.

Storage Tips for Caramel Apple Jam

Seal jam in airtight containers and store for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.

Transfer cooled jam to freezer-safe containers, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for 12-18 months. Check seals periodically to ensure preservation integrity.

Gently warm small portions in the microwave using 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Alternatively, use a small saucepan on low heat, stirring continuously to prevent scorching.

FAQs

• Why use pectin in this jam recipe?

Pectin helps the jam set and thicken properly, ensuring a smooth and spreadable consistency that holds together when you’re enjoying it on toast or biscuits.

• Can I reduce the sugar in this caramel apple jam?

Reducing sugar can affect the jam’s texture and preservation, so it’s best to follow the recipe exactly to maintain the right consistency and safety for canning.

• How do I know if my jam has set correctly?

After cooling, the jam should have a soft, spreadable texture that holds its shape when you run a spoon through it. If it’s too runny, it might need additional cooking or pectin.

• Is it normal for the apples to break down during cooking?

Yes, the apples will naturally soften and break down as they cook, which helps create a smooth and rich jam texture with small apple pieces throughout.

Sweet and Tart: Caramel Apple Jam Recipe

• Savor Seasonal Comfort: Capture the warmth of autumn with this rich, spiced caramel apple jam that brings cozy kitchen memories to life.
• Master Easy Preservation: Create a delightful homemade spread without complex canning skills, perfect for beginners wanting to explore fruit preservation.
• Customize Family Favorite: Transform fresh apples into a versatile condiment that works beautifully on toast, as a pastry filling, or alongside savory dishes like roasted meats.
• Gift with Love: Package this stunning jam in decorative jars for a heartfelt homemade present that showcases your culinary creativity and personal touch.

Caramel Apple Jam Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sweet caramel apple jam brings autumn’s golden warmth straight to your kitchen, capturing orchard-fresh memories in a single spoonful. Homemade comfort awaits as you savor this rich, nostalgic spread that transforms simple ingredients into delectable magic.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits:

• 6 cups apples, finely diced and peeled (about 4 medium-large Honeycrisp apples)

Sugars and Sweeteners:

• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

Spices and Additives:

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon butter
• 1 package Sure-Jell (powdered fruit pectin)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a spacious stockpot, combine diced apples with water and butter, gently simmering for approximately 10 minutes until the apples reach a soft, yielding texture.
2. Incorporate pectin into the softened apple mixture, elevating the heat to generate a vigorous, rolling boil while continuously stirring to prevent scorching.
3. Gradually introduce granulated and brown sugars, then sprinkle in aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, maintaining the intense boil for precisely one minute with constant, rhythmic stirring.
4. Extinguish the heat source and delicately skim any accumulated foam from the surface of the caramel-infused mixture.
5. Transfer the molten jam meticulously into sterilized glass jars, ensuring a precise 1/4-inch gap from the rim, carefully eliminating potential air pockets with a strategic utensil.
6. Meticulously cleanse jar edges and secure lids, then submerge in a roiling water bath for 10 minutes to guarantee proper preservation.
7. As jars cool, periodically rotate them to distribute apple fragments evenly throughout the luscious preserve.
8. Once completely cooled, store in a dark, temperature-stable environment and refrigerate after initial opening to maintain optimal freshness.

Notes

• Enhance apple texture by using firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for better jam consistency and less mushy results.
• Control sweetness by adjusting sugar ratios; reduce brown sugar for less intense caramel flavor or use alternative sweeteners like honey for different dietary needs.
• Prevent burning by stirring constantly during boiling and using low-medium heat to maintain smooth caramel development without scorching.
• Create gluten-free and vegan versions by ensuring pectin brand is allergen-free and substituting butter with coconut oil for plant-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 267
• Sugar: 47 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 0.2 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 69 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 0.3 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg