Sweet and Tangy Homemade Apricot Jam Recipe

Enjoy the flavors of summer all year round with this easy homemade apricot jam recipe. Made with ripe and juicy apricots, this sweet and tangy jam is perfect for spreading on toast, topping yogurt, or even as a filling for pastries. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a jar of homemade goodness that will brighten up your breakfasts and snacks.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it thickens to the desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
6. Transfer the jam to clean and sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Seal the jars tightly.
7. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation.
8. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. Check the seals to make sure they are tight and store the jam in a cool, dark place.
9. Enjoy your homemade apricot jam on toast, biscuits, scones, or as a delicious accompaniment to cheese and crackers.

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