Caramel Apple Jam Spread (Print-Friendly Version)

Rich caramel and apple flavors meet for a cozy homemade spread, perfect on breads, pastries, or desserts.

# Ingredients:

→ Basic Ingredients

01 - 6 cups Honey Crisp apples, peeled and finely diced
02 - 1/2 cup water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon butter
04 - 1 package Sure-Jell powdered fruit pectin
05 - 4 cups granulated sugar
06 - 1 cup packed brown sugar
07 - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
08 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

→ Optional Flavor Additions

09 - 1/2 cup spiced rum, cinnamon whiskey, or bourbon (substitute for water)

# Steps:

01 - Peel and finely dice 6 cups of Honey Crisp apples, ensuring small, even pieces for a smoother jam texture.
02 - In a large stockpot, add diced apples, 1/2 cup water (or chosen spiced liquid), and 1/2 teaspoon butter. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until apples become tender.
03 - Stir in 1 package of Sure-Jell powdered fruit pectin until fully dissolved. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
04 - Add 4 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Stir until well combined, then return to a rolling boil for 1 minute to ensure even blending and thickening.
05 - Remove the mixture from heat and skim off any foam. Carefully ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Remove trapped air bubbles by gently twisting jars.
06 - Seal jars with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Allow jars to cool completely before storing.

# Notes:

01 - Peel and dice apples finely to create a smoother texture, ideal for spreading.
02 - Adding a bit of butter reduces foam during cooking, leading to a glossy finish.
03 - Use powdered pectin like Sure-Jell to achieve the desired jam thickness.
04 - Substitute water with rum, cinnamon whiskey, or bourbon for an adult flavor twist.
05 - Boiling water processing ensures jars are sealed and preserves freshness for longer.