Homemade Apple Thyme Jam Recipe

Introduction

This homemade apple thyme jam combines the sweet, crisp flavor of apples with the fresh, earthy notes of thyme. It’s a delightful twist on traditional fruit preserves, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.

Ingredients

• 4 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (about 4 medium apples; Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 1 cup apple juice or cider
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 box (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell or Certo)
• Optional: 2–3 sprigs of fresh thyme for steeping in the jar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel, core, and finely chop the apples into small, even pieces to help them soften quickly and evenly when cooked.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, lemon zest, and apple juice. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.
3. Step 3: Stir in the fruit pectin and increase the heat. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid scorching.
4. Step 4: Pour in the granulated sugar and add the chopped thyme leaves. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the surface using a spoon.
5. Step 5: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. If using, add a fresh thyme sprig into each jar before sealing for added aroma and visual detail.
6. Step 6 (Optional): For longer storage, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. If not processing, allow the jars to cool at room temperature and then refrigerate for short-term use.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother texture, gently mash the apples after cooking but before adding the pectin.
• Use different apple varieties like Gala or Granny Smith for a tart or sweeter jam.
• Substitute dried thyme if fresh thyme is unavailable, using about 1 teaspoon.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for additional warmth and spice.

Storage

Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year if processed in a boiling water bath. Once opened or if not processed, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks. Reheat gently if desired before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are best for texture and flavor, but you can use thawed frozen apples if needed. Drain excess liquid before cooking to avoid thinning your jam.

Why is fruit pectin necessary?

Fruit pectin helps the jam set properly, giving it the right thickness and consistency. Without it, the jam may remain runny.

Homemade Apple Thyme Jam Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 126 reviews

This Homemade Apple Thyme Jam recipe combines fresh apples with zesty lemon and fragrant thyme to create a uniquely flavorful and aromatic jam. Perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or gifting, this jam uses simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods to achieve a deliciously sweet and herbaceous preserve.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 cups of jam 1x
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Jam Ingredients

• 4 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (about 4 medium apples; Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 1 cup apple juice or cider
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 box (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell or Certo)

Optional

• 2–3 sprigs of fresh thyme for steeping in the jar

Instructions

1. Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and finely chop the apples into small, even pieces to help them soften quickly and evenly when cooked.
2. Simmer the Base: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, lemon zest, and apple juice. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.
3. Add the Pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin and increase the heat. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid scorching.
4. Add Sugar and Thyme: Pour in the granulated sugar and add the chopped thyme leaves. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the surface using a spoon.
5. Fill the Jars: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. If using, add a fresh thyme sprig into each jar before sealing for added aroma and visual detail.
6. Process the Jars (Optional): For longer storage, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. If not processing, allow the jars to cool at room temperature and then refrigerate for short-term use.

Notes

• Use firm, flavorful apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best taste and texture.
• Make sure to stir constantly when boiling with pectin and sugar to prevent burning or sticking.
• Adding fresh thyme sprigs to the jars is optional but adds an elegant aroma and visual appeal.
• Processing jars in a boiling water bath ensures safe long-term storage; if skipped, keep jam refrigerated and use within a few weeks.
• Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized before filling to avoid spoilage.

Keywords: apple jam, homemade jam, apple thyme jam, fruit preserve, easy jam recipe, fresh thyme jam