Description
This Homemade Apple Thyme Jam is a delightful blend of sweet apples, fresh thyme, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or gifting to loved ones, this jam combines fresh ingredients cooked to a perfect consistency using a stovetop method, and preserved safely by boiling water bath canning.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits
- 4 cups apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
Sweeteners and Spices
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and finely chop the apples, then place them into a large pot to start the jam base.
- Add liquids: Pour in the water and lemon juice to prevent the apples from browning and to add acidity to the mixture.
- Mix sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar thoroughly so it is evenly incorporated with the apples and liquids.
- Add spices and herbs: Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh thyme leaves, then stir all ingredients to combine the warm spices and herbal flavors evenly.
- Heat the mixture: Set the pot over medium heat and bring the contents to a boil, stirring frequently to avoid burning the sugar at the bottom.
- Incorporate pectin: Once boiling, pour in the fruit pectin and stir it well to dissolve completely into the jam.
- Boil to thicken: Continue boiling the mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the jam achieves a thickened, jam-like consistency.
- Jar the jam: Remove the pot from heat and carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving approximately 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Process jars: Seal the jars with lids and process them in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
- Cool and seal: Carefully remove jars from the water bath and place them on the countertop to cool; the lids will pop as they seal, indicating successful sealing.
Notes
- Peeling and coring apples ensures a smooth jam texture without tough bits.
- Lemon juice not only adds acidity but also helps to preserve the jam color and flavor.
- Using fresh thyme adds a unique herbal note that pairs well with the sweetness of apples and warm spices.
- Boiling water bath processing is essential for safe long-term storage and preservation of your homemade jam.
- If you prefer a chunkier jam, chop the apples less finely.
- Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
