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Caramel Apple Jam

Caramel apple jam with tender apple pieces and a glossy, caramelized spread that sets to a spoonable wrinkle. Made on the stovetop until it passes the cold-plate test, then jarred for easy gifting or pantry-ready breakfasts.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 half-pint jars
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Apples
  • 4 cup apples peeled and finely diced (about 5–6 medium apples)
Sugars and liquids
  • 2 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
  • 0.25 cup apple cider or apple juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
Spices and flavorings
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp nutmeg
  • 0.25 tsp allspice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.25 tsp salt

Equipment

  • 1 Dutch oven

Method
 

Cook the jam base
  1. Combine the apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, apple cider or apple juice, and lemon juice in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, for 30–35 minutes until the mixture thickens and the apples break down.
Season and set
  1. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, vanilla extract, and salt, then cook for 5 more minutes while stirring to combine.
  2. Test for set point by placing a spoonful on a cold plate and pushing it—if it wrinkles, the jam is ready.
Jar and store
  1. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving appropriate headspace for water-bath processing.
  2. Process in a water bath for 10 minutes, or skip canning and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching as the sugars caramelize; stir often during the last 10 minutes. Refrigerate jarred jam in clean, sealed containers for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, water-bath process as written (freezer storage is not recommended for best texture). For a lighter option, reduce granulated sugar slightly (e.g., 1 3/4 cups) but expect a softer set.