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Quick Small-Batch Apricot Vanilla Jam Recipe Without Pectin Easy Homemade

quick small-batch apricot vanilla jam - featured image

A simple, quick, and natural apricot vanilla jam recipe that requires no commercial pectin, perfect for small batches and bursting with fresh fruit flavor and cozy vanilla warmth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped, or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Rinse the apricots well, then pit and chop them into roughly 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces.
  2. In a medium saucepan, add the chopped apricots, sugar, lemon juice, water, and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean along with the pod itself. If using vanilla extract, add it later in step 5. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Place the pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the sugar dissolves and the apricots start to soften, about 10 minutes. Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently, stirring every couple of minutes to avoid sticking. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens and darkens slightly.
  4. Test the jam’s set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push with your finger—if it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s done. If not, cook a little longer, watching carefully to avoid overcooking.
  5. If using vanilla extract instead of a bean, stir it in now off the heat. Remove the vanilla pod if used.
  6. Spoon the hot jam into sterilized small jars, leaving about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) headspace. Seal the jars while hot, then let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

Use ripe but firm apricots for best texture and natural pectin. Stir frequently to prevent scorching. Test jam set with chilled plate. Add vanilla extract after cooking to preserve aroma. Sterilize jars for long-term storage. Can substitute frozen apricots (thawed and drained). For vegan or lower sugar, use coconut sugar or natural sweeteners but expect slight flavor changes.

Nutrition

Keywords: apricot jam, vanilla jam, homemade jam, no pectin jam, small batch jam, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves