Description
This homemade apple jam recipe uses Bramley apples cooked gently with sugar, lemon juice, and a hint of cinnamon to create a thick, glossy spread perfect for toast or desserts. The slow simmering method preserves the fresh apple flavor while giving the jam a smooth texture and natural sweetness balanced by citrus and spice.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1kg Bramley apples, peeled, cored and chopped
- 250g caster sugar
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 350ml water
Instructions
- Prepare the apples and sugar: Peel, core, and chop the Bramley apples into small pieces. Place them in a large saucepan with the caster sugar and 350ml of water.
- Simmer the mixture: Heat over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Cook the apples down: Maintain a gentle simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring regularly until the apples have broken down into a soft pulp.
- Add lemon juice and cinnamon: Stir in the juice of half a lemon and add the cinnamon stick. Continue to simmer gently for another 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture appears thick and glossy.
- Test the jam setting: Place a small plate in the freezer beforehand. Remove it and drop a little jam onto the cold plate. After a few seconds, check if it firms up. If still runny, return the saucepan to heat and simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes, then retest.
- Jar the jam: Once set, remove the cinnamon stick and spoon the jam into clean, sterilized jars. Seal immediately.
- Storage advice: Store jars in a cool, dry place for up to three months unopened. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within one month.
Notes
- Use Bramley apples as they provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the jam.
- Ensure jars are sterilized properly to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage.
- The lemon juice acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.
- Adjust cooking time based on jam thickness preference; longer simmering will result in thicker jam.
- The cinnamon stick adds a subtle spiced note but can be omitted or replaced based on taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Jam
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: apple jam, homemade jam, Bramley apples, fruit preserve, cinnamon apple jam
