Are you a fan of apple pies, but don’t always have the time to bake a whole pie from scratch? Why not try a delightful alternative that captures the essence of a classic Dutch apple pie in a delicious jam form? This Dutch Apple Pie Jam recipe combines the cozy flavors of sweet apples, warm spices, and a hint of citrus in a spreadable form that is perfect for toast, crackers, or even as a topping for desserts. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting taste of apple pie in a convenient jar. Let’s get started on this flavorful creation!
Dutch Apple Pie Jam
Ingredients:
– 6 cups of apples, peeled, cored, and diced (a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well)
– 1 cup of apple cider
– 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp of ground cloves
– 2 cups of granulated sugar
– 1 cup of brown sugar
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced apples and apple cider. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the pot and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the apples.
3. Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sugars have dissolved and the jam starts to thicken, about 15-20 minutes.
4. As the jam thickens, use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down some of the larger apple pieces to achieve your desired consistency. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the jam has reached a spreadable thickness.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the jam.
6. Ladle the hot Dutch Apple Pie Jam into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the jar rims with a clean damp cloth and seal the jars with lids and rings.
7. Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Once processed, remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool at room temperature. The lids should make a popping sound as they seal.
8. Store your freshly made Dutch Apple Pie Jam in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.
Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with this homemade Dutch Apple Pie Jam. Spread it on toast for a delightful breakfast treat, pair it with cheese for a tasty appetizer, or drizzle it over ice cream for a decadent dessert topping. This versatile jam is sure to become a favorite in your pantry and makes for a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Happy jam-making!
