Apple Cider Spiced Jam
Apple cider jam is one of those small batch preserves that feels completely worth the effort. Fresh apple chunks, a cinnamon stick, a splash of lemon and good apple cider simmer down into a golden, spiced jam that tastes like the best part of fall in a jar. It’s beautiful on a cheese board, slathered on toast with butter, or brushed over pork before it goes in the oven.This recipe is intentionally small — it makes two quarter pints or one half pint, which is perfect for using up the last of a gallon of cider without committing to a full canning day. If you want more, it doubles easily.
What Makes This Jam Special
Most apple jams lean heavily on sugar and lose the actual apple flavor in the process. Using apple cider as the base here keeps things bright and genuinely fruity – you taste the apple first, then the warm spice of cinnamon and mace behind it. It sets beautifully and has a chunky, rustic texture that makes it feel homemade in the best way.
Wondering what to make with apple cider in fall season? This recipe is perfect for that last glass of cider i nthe jug.
A Small Batch Worth Making
This small batch apple cider jam recipe yields two quarter pints or one half pint – ideal for that last bit of cider in the jug and just one apple from the bowl. It’s the kind of preserve you can make on a quiet afternoon without clearing out the kitchen. Double or triple it if you’re feeling ambitious or want jars to give as gifts.
Ingredients:
Sugar, cinnamon, mace, fresh apple, and apple cider are the main ingredients in this recipe. This recipe also uses a small amount of fresh lemon citrus juice and Sure-Jell to set the jam before canning.
Apple Cider Spiced Jam: This homemade apple cider spiced jam with cinnamon has simple, wholesome ingredients and is bursting with fall flavors. As the weather cools, the taste and smell of apples and cinnamon is synonymous with cozy and comforting food. Apple cider is readily available during peak Harvest season and provides a delicious, flavor-filled base for this apple cider spiced jam recipe. The recipe yields 2 quarter pints or 1 half pint portion, making it ideal for smaller batches. However, if you’re feeling ambitious, the recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Enjoy the versatility of this homemade apple cider jam, whether it’s spread on toast, served on a holiday charcuterie board, or used in other creative ways.
Ways to Use it:
- On a fall cheese board alongside aged cheddar, brie and crackers
- Slathered on thick toasted bread with good salted butter
- Brushed over a pork roast in the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet, spiced glaze
- Spooned into a bowl of plain yogurt with granola for a quick fall breakfast. If you love fruit on yogurt, the full seasonal yogurt bowl guide has more make-ahead fruit topping ideas for every season.
- Alongside this fig vinaigrette on a full harvest cheese board for a beautiful pairing of fruit-forward condiments
How to Store:
Properly canned and sealed jars are shelf stable for up to one year stored in a cool dark pantry. Once opened, refrigerate and use within two to three weeks. You can also skip the canning process entirely and store directly in the fridge – it will keep for two weeks.
If you’re deep in apple season, this spiced apple wine is another cozy fall recipe worth making while apples are at their peak.
If you’re working through a fall apple orchard haul, these air fryer apple chips are another simple way to make the most of the season crispy, sweet and done in minutes.
And if you have apple cider left over after making a batch of jam, this cranberry apple cider cocktail is a festive way to use up the rest.
Making apple cider jam is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of fall. This recipe not only brings a unique twist to your pantry but also adds a touch of warmth to your breakfast table. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the joy of homemade jam. If you have any questions or thoughts about your own apple cider jam adventures, please share in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you!
How should I store apple cider spiced jam to keep it fresh?
To keep your apple cider spiced jam fresh, store it in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Once opened, transfer it to the refrigerator and consume it within two to three weeks for the best flavor and quality.
Can I freeze apple cider spiced jam for long-term storage?
Yes, you can freeze apple cider spiced jam! Pour it into an airtight container or freezer-safe jar, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a year.
What is the shelf life of homemade apple cider spiced jam?
Homemade apple cider spiced jam can last up to one year if properly canned and sealed. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within two to three weeks for optimal taste.
Apple Cider Spiced Jam
Equipment
- Canning Tongs
- 2 ¼ pint canning jars with coordinating rings, rubber lids or ½ pint jar.
- Stock Pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sugar, white
- 1 ½ cup Apple Cider flat, non-carbonated
- 1 10 oz. Apple preferably Macoun variety or similiar
- ¼ Ground mace
- 1 Cinnamon Stick about 4-5 inches in length
- 1 tsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Sure-Jell pectin
Instructions
Apple Cider Jam
- Peel apple and cut into ¼ cubes.
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add sugar and cider, stir together.
- Bring cider mixture to boil, lower stove temperature to medium and add apple cubes, mace and cinnamon stick, stir to combine.
- Cook for 15 minutes, letting the mixture thicken.
- Remove cinnamon stick from mixture.
- Add sure-jell and stir to incorporate fully. Let mixer thicken over stove for 3 more minutes.
Canning Process
- Add enough water to cover jars in stock pot and bring to boil
- Sterilize canning jars in hot water bath and wipe dry. Keep water at a boil, you will use this to finalize your canning process.
- Spoon jam into prepared jars and seal with lids.
- Process jars in water bath for 10 minutes.
- Using tongs, remove jars and allow to cool on cloth laid on counter top.
- The lids should "pop" as the jars cool, meaning the tops of the jars are fully sealed and your apple cider jam is ready for pantry storage.
Nutrition
Savor the Harvest: Share the Joy of Homemade Apple Cider Jam!
This jam recipe looks so good!