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Flavorful Vanilla Apricot Preserves

vanilla apricot preserves - featured image

A silky, sweet, and subtly vanilla-flavored apricot preserve that captures the fresh brightness of apricots with a warm vanilla twist. Perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or spooning over ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds fresh apricots, pitted and chopped (about 1.4 kg)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 1/2 cup water (120 ml)

Instructions

  1. Wash, pit, and chop the apricots into roughly 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture starts to bubble.
  3. Scrape the vanilla bean seeds into the pot, then add the pod. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture gently simmer, stirring every few minutes, until thickened and glossy, about 30-35 minutes. Aim for a temperature around 220Β°F (104Β°C) if using a thermometer.
  5. Test the set by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds shape after cooling for a minute, it is ready. If not, simmer a few more minutes and test again.
  6. Remove and discard the vanilla pod. Pour hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Seal tightly.
  7. Let jars cool at room temperature before refrigerating. Preserves will thicken further as they cool.

Notes

Simmer gently and stir often to avoid burning and achieve a silky texture. Use real vanilla bean for best flavor, but vanilla extract can be substituted. Test the set with a chilled plate. Sterilize jars before filling to extend shelf life. Store in refrigerator up to 3 weeks or freeze unopened jars up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: vanilla apricot preserves, apricot jam, homemade preserves, vanilla bean, fruit spread, easy preserves, breakfast spread, vegan preserves, gluten-free preserves