Easy Creamy Homemade Apricot Vanilla Jam Recipe for Perfect Toast
A quick and easy creamy apricot vanilla jam perfect for spreading on toast, made with simple ingredients and no pectin required. This jam is smooth, lightly textured, and full of warm vanilla flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 1.5 cups (approximately 12 servings of 1 tablespoon each) 1x
- Category: Spread
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds fresh apricots, pitted and roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped out (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Rinse the apricots under cool water, then pit and chop into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped apricots, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir gently to mix.
- Place the pan over medium heat and stir occasionally as the apricots soften and the mixture begins to bubble (about 8-10 minutes).
- Split the vanilla bean lengthwise, scrape the seeds into the pot, and add the pod as well. If using vanilla extract, add it after cooking.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently and mashing some apricot pieces for a creamy texture. The mixture should thicken and look glossy.
- Test the jam by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape, it is ready. If too loose, simmer a few minutes longer.
- Remove and discard the vanilla pod.
- Optional: For a smoother jam, push the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or food mill.
- Pour the warm jam into clean glass jars, let cool completely at room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.
Notes
Do not rush the simmering step to avoid scorching and preserve the delicate vanilla flavor. Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even heat distribution. Add vanilla extract after cooking to keep aroma bright. Lemon juice helps balance sweetness and preserves the jam naturally. Frozen apricots can be used if thawed and drained. Sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple syrup for different sweetness profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20 gra
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 11
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: apricot jam, vanilla jam, homemade jam, creamy jam, easy jam recipe, fruit spread, breakfast spread