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
Scale
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
