Apricot Pineapple Jam

Apricot Pineapple Jam is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make crockpot jam combines the freshness of apricots with the tropical essence of pineapples. Whether you spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or drizzle it over desserts, this jam will elevate your culinary creations. Its unique taste and simple preparation make it a standout choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal effort required, this jam comes together effortlessly in your crockpot.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of apricots and pineapple creates a deliciously unique taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Usage: Perfect for breakfast spreads, dessert toppings, or even as a gift for loved ones.
• Long Shelf Life: Properly canned or frozen, this jam can be stored for up to a year without losing its flavor.
• Natural Ingredients: Made with fresh fruit and no preservatives, making it a healthier choice for your pantry.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Apricot Pineapple Jam successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary items you’ll need to gather before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Mason jars with lids
• Immersion blender
• Measuring cups
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: Allows you to cook the jam slowly, enhancing the flavors without constant monitoring.
• Mason jars: Essential for storing your jam safely while keeping it fresh.
• Immersion blender: Helps achieve the desired consistency quickly and easily without transferring the mixture to another container.

Ingredients

Apricot Pineapple Jam is made in the crockpot with fresh apricots and chopped pineapple. Enjoy this delicious jam mixture as a spread, filling, or topping!

For the Fruit Base

• 6 cups apricots (measure after chopping or crushing)
• 2 cups fresh pineapple (measure after chopping finely)

For Sweetening and Flavoring

• 9 cups granulated sugar
• 2 boxes pectin
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ½ – 1 teaspoon almond extract

How to Make Apricot Pineapple Jam

Step 1: Prepare Your Jars

1. Wash and sterilize mason jars and lids in boiling water or run them through the sterilization cycle on your dishwasher.

Step 2: Chop Your Fruits

1. Remove pits from the apricots and chop them into small pieces.
2. Cut the flesh of the pineapple into small pieces. Smaller pieces help ensure even cooking in the crockpot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

1. Add sugar, pectin, chopped apricots, and chopped pineapple to your crockpot.

Step 4: Cook in Crockpot

1. Set your crockpot on high.
2. Cook for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until sugar is fully dissolved throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Once cooked, add almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Use an immersion blender to blend until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Jar Your Jam

1. Ladle the finished jam into prepared mason jars.
2. Secure lids tightly and let jars set for 24 hours before freezing or processing.

Step 7: Storage Options

1. If opting not to freeze, process jars in a boiling water bath so they can be stored on shelves for up to one year.

Enjoy making this delectable Apricot Pineapple Jam! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

How to Serve Apricot Pineapple Jam

Apricot Pineapple Jam is a versatile spread that can enhance many meals and snacks. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast or planning a dessert, this jam adds a delightful tropical twist.

On Toast

• Toasted Bread: Spread the jam on warm, toasted bread for a quick and tasty breakfast.
• English Muffins: Top an English muffin with butter and a generous layer of this fruity jam.

With Cheese

• Cheese Plate: Pair Apricot Pineapple Jam with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
• Grilled Cheese: Add a dollop of jam inside your grilled cheese sandwich for an unexpected flavor boost.

In Desserts

• Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle the jam over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer the jam in yogurt parfaits with granola and fresh fruit for added sweetness.

As a Glaze

• Meat Glaze: Brush on meats like chicken or pork during grilling for a sweet glaze.
• Vegetable Roasting: Mix with vegetables before roasting to add flavor and moisture.

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How to Perfect Apricot Pineapple Jam

To achieve the best results with your Apricot Pineapple Jam, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe fruit: Using ripe apricots and fresh pineapple enhances the flavor of your jam.
• Measure accurately: Ensure you measure your ingredients precisely for perfect consistency.
• Cook slowly: Allow enough time in the crockpot for flavors to meld together fully.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture before sealing jars; add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
• Blend carefully: Use an immersion blender gently to maintain some fruit texture in the jam.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Pineapple Jam

Apricot Pineapple Jam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside it.

1. Grilled Chicken: The sweetness of the jam complements grilled chicken perfectly, adding depth to each bite.
2. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese for a delightful pairing.
3. Pork Chops: A savory dish like pork chops benefits from the sweet-tart flavor of apricot pineapple jam as a sauce.
4. Savory Crepes: Fill crepes with ham and cheese, then top with a spoonful of this delicious jam.
5. Garden Salad: Mix into vinaigrettes or drizzle over salads for extra sweetness and flavor contrast.
6. Rice Pilaf: Stir into rice pilaf for an unexpected hint of sweetness that balances savory spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apricot Pineapple Jam can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sterilization: Not properly sterilizing jars can lead to contamination. Always wash and sterilize jars before filling them with jam.
• Using unripe fruit: Using fruit that isn’t ripe can affect the flavor and texture of your jam. Choose ripe apricots and fresh pineapple for the best taste.
• Ignoring pectin measurements: Using too little or too much pectin can alter the consistency. Follow the recommended amounts in the recipe for perfect results.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the mixture regularly can cause it to cook unevenly. Stir every 30 minutes while cooking for consistent results.
• Overcooking: Cooking the jam for too long can change its texture. Monitor closely and remove it from heat once the sugar dissolves completely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Freshly made jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
• Containers: Use airtight jars or containers to prevent moisture from entering.

Freezing Apricot Pineapple Jam

• Duration: The jam can be frozen for up to 1 year.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe glass jars or plastic containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Apricot Pineapple Jam

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apricot Pineapple Jam.

Can I use canned fruit?

Yes, you can use canned apricots and pineapple, but ensure they are well-drained and chopped finely for best results.

How do I know if my jam has set?

The jam is ready when it thickens slightly on the spoon or reaches a rolling boil that doesn’t subside when stirred.

What is the best way to serve Apricot Pineapple Jam?

This jam is delicious as a spread on toast or pancakes, or as a filling for pastries and cakes.

Can I adjust the sweetness of my jam?

Absolutely! You may reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet flavor, but this may affect preservation.

How long does it take to make Apricot Pineapple Jam?

The total time is approximately 3 hours including prep time and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Making Apricot Pineapple Jam is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. This versatile spread works wonderfully on toast, as a topping for desserts, or even as a filling for baked goods. Feel free to customize by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick!