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Homemade Apple Thyme Jam Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 524 reviews

This Homemade Apple Thyme Jam Recipe blends the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with aromatic thyme, creating a deliciously fragrant jam perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts. Made with simple ingredients like fresh apples, lemon juice, apple cider, and sugar, and enhanced with fruit pectin for the perfect set, this jam captures the essence of autumn in a jar. Whether you choose to process the jars for longer shelf life or enjoy it fresh, this easy stovetop jam-making method delivers flavorful results.

Ingredients

Scale

Jam Ingredients

  • 4 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (about 4 medium apples; Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 cup apple juice or cider
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 box (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell or Certo)

Optional

  • 2–3 sprigs of fresh thyme for steeping in the jar

Instructions

  1. Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and finely chop the apples into small, even pieces to help them soften quickly and evenly when cooked.
  2. Simmer the Base: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, lemon zest, and apple juice. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.
  3. Add the Pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin and increase the heat. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid scorching.
  4. Add Sugar and Thyme: Pour in the granulated sugar and add the chopped thyme leaves. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the surface using a spoon.
  5. Fill the Jars: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. If using, add a fresh thyme sprig into each jar before sealing for added aroma and visual detail.
  6. Process the Jars (Optional): For longer storage, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. If not processing, allow the jars to cool at room temperature and then refrigerate for short-term use.

Notes

  • Use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for the best natural sweetness and texture.
  • Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized before filling to prevent spoilage.
  • The optional boiling water bath processing extends shelf life; unprocessed jars should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
  • Adding fresh thyme sprigs to jars before sealing infuses extra herbal aroma and makes for an attractive presentation.
  • If you prefer less sweetness, cut down the sugar slightly but be cautious as it affects the jam’s consistency and preservation.

Keywords: Apple jam, homemade jam, thyme jam, fall recipes, fruit preserves, apple spread, easy jam recipe

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/homemade-apple-thyme-jam-recipe/