Fresh Apricot Almond Preserves
A quick and easy homemade jam combining ripe apricots and toasted almonds for a fresh, wholesome preserve with a subtle nutty crunch and balanced sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups (approximately 16 servings of 2 tablespoons each) 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse and pit about 3 pounds of fresh apricots. Chop into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- Toast 1/2 cup whole almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and roughly chop once cooled.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine chopped apricots, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally, mashing some apricot pieces gently to release juices. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the fruit breaks down and the mixture thickens.
- If using, stir in 1/4 teaspoon almond extract.
- Stir in the toasted, chopped almonds once the jam thickens but is still slightly loose (around 220°F / 104°C if measuring). Cook for another 3-5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Test for set by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when nudged, it’s ready. If not, cook a few minutes longer, testing every 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly.
- Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate or process in a water bath for longer storage.
Notes
Toast almonds carefully over medium heat to avoid burning and bitterness. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor and preserve setting. Adjust sugar based on apricot sweetness. The spoon test is a reliable way to check jam set if no thermometer is available. For smoother texture, pulse cooked apricots briefly in a blender before adding almonds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 20
- Carbohydrates: 20
Keywords: apricot jam, almond preserves, homemade jam, fresh apricot preserves, easy jam recipe, nutty jam, summer preserves