Apple Cinnamon Jam Recipe
Introduction
Apple jam is a delicious way to capture the sweet and tangy flavors of Bramley apples. This simple recipe combines apples, sugar, lemon, and a hint of cinnamon to create a luscious spread perfect for toast or desserts.
Ingredients
- 1kg Bramley apples, peeled, cored and chopped
- 250g caster sugar
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 350ml water
Instructions
- Step 1: Place a small plate in the freezer to chill while you prepare the jam.
- Step 2: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, caster sugar, and 350ml of water. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Step 3: Cook gently over low heat, stirring regularly, for about 30 minutes until the apples have fully collapsed and softened.
- Step 4: Stir in the lemon juice and add the cinnamon stick. Continue to simmer gently for another 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Step 5: Remove the chilled plate from the freezer. Drop a small spoonful of the jam onto the plate and leave it for a few seconds to set. If the jam is still runny, return the pan to the heat and simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat the test until the jam is firm.
- Step 6: Once ready, remove the cinnamon stick and carefully spoon the hot jam into clean, sterilised jars. Seal immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the jam briefly before adding the lemon juice and cinnamon.
- Try adding a vanilla pod or a pinch of nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a different spice profile.
- Use golden delicious apples if you prefer a sweeter jam with less tartness.
Storage
Store sealed jars of apple jam in a cool, dry place for up to three months. After opening, keep the jam refrigerated and use within one month for the best flavor and freshness. Reheat gently before serving if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this jam?
Yes, while Bramley apples are ideal for their tartness and texture, you can use other cooking apples like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious. Adjust sugar levels if the apples are particularly sweet or tart.
How do I sterilise jars for jam?
To sterilise jars, wash them in hot soapy water, rinse well, and place them in a hot oven (about 140°C/275°F) for 10-15 minutes. Keep them warm until you fill them with jam to prevent cracking.
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Apple Cinnamon Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 4 jars (about 1 liter total) 1x
Description
This homemade apple jam recipe features Bramley apples simmered with sugar, lemon juice, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a thick, glossy preserve perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts. The method involves gently cooking the apples until they collapse, then simmering until the jam reaches the perfect set consistency.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 1kg Bramley apples, peeled, cored and chopped
Other Ingredients
- 250g caster sugar
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 350ml water
Instructions
- Prepare and Chill Plate: Place a small plate in the freezer to chill; this will be used later to test the jam’s set consistency.
- Simmer Apples and Sugar: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, caster sugar, and 350ml of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar thoroughly.
- Cook Apples: Continue to cook gently for 30 minutes, stirring regularly until the apples have broken down completely and collapsed into a soft mixture.
- Add Lemon Juice and Cinnamon: Stir in the lemon juice and add the cinnamon stick. Simmer the mixture gently for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Test the Jam Consistency: Remove the chilled plate from the freezer and spoon a small amount of the jam onto it. Let it sit for a few seconds; it should be fairly firm to the touch. If it’s still runny, return the saucepan to the heat and simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat the plate test after reheating.
- Jar the Jam: Once the jam is properly set, remove the cinnamon stick and pour the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly.
- Storage: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dry place for up to three months. After opening, keep refrigerated and use within one month.
Notes
- Use Bramley apples for a perfect balance of tartness and texture suitable for jam.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- Chilled plate test is critical to achieve the correct jam set consistency.
- Adjust cooking time slightly if jam is too runny or too thick.
- This jam is delicious spread on toast, as a topping for yogurt, or in desserts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: apple jam, homemade jam recipe, Bramley apples, preserves, cinnamon jam, easy jam recipe
