Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Thyme Jam offers a delightful twist on the classic fruit jams. The savory undertone of thyme complements the apple’s sweetness, making it a versatile spread. It’s easy to make, and the result is a beautifully aromatic jam with a balanced flavor. Whether you’re using it as a topping, a gift, or simply for a cozy breakfast, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well for a balance of tartness and sweetness)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup water
4-5 sprigs fresh thyme (plus more for garnish if desired)
1 tablespoon pectin (optional, depending on how thick you like your jam)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. This will help them break down more easily during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a large saucepan, combine the diced apples, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sugar

Gradually stir in the sugar, ensuring it dissolves completely. Continue cooking on medium heat, allowing the apples to break down further and release their natural juices.

Step 4: Infuse with Thyme

Tie the thyme sprigs with kitchen twine or place them in a small herb infuser and add them to the apple mixture. The thyme will release its fragrant oils as the jam simmers. Let the mixture cook for another 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking.

Step 5: Optional Pectin Addition

If you prefer a thicker jam, sprinkle in the pectin at this stage, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow it to thicken.

Step 6: Remove the Thyme

Once the jam has reached your desired consistency, remove the thyme sprigs. If you’d like a stronger thyme flavor, feel free to leave in some of the leaves that may have fallen off during cooking.

Step 7: Jar the Jam

Remove the jam from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully spoon the jam into sterilized jars. You can place a small fresh thyme sprig inside each jar for an elegant touch if you like.

Step 8: Seal and Store

Seal the jars with lids and allow them to cool completely. Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer shelf life, process the jars in a water bath to seal them.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3 jars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the jam for a warm, spiced twist.
Other Fruits: You can swap the apples for pears or peaches for a different flavor profile while keeping the thyme for its unique, herby undertone.
Vegan Version: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but you can reduce the sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup if you prefer a less refined sugar.
Extra Zing: For a tangier jam, add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or zest, which will brighten up the flavor even more.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store the jam in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For long-term storage, process the jars in a water bath to ensure they are sealed properly.
Freezing: You can freeze the jam for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little room in the jar for expansion.
Reheating: If the jam becomes too thick after refrigerating, you can gently heat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or lemon juice to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, but you can use any apple variety you prefer. Just keep in mind that some apples are sweeter than others, which will affect the overall flavor of the jam.

2. Can I make this jam without pectin?

Yes, you can make this jam without pectin. It will take a bit longer to cook, but it will still thicken naturally as the apples break down.

3. Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

Fresh thyme is preferred for its flavor, but if you have dried thyme, use about 1 teaspoon in place of the fresh sprigs. The flavor will be a bit more concentrated.

4. How do I know when the jam is ready?

The jam is ready when it reaches a thick consistency that holds its shape when placed on a cold plate. You can test it by pushing the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles, it’s done.

5. Can I add more herbs to the jam?

Yes, if you love herbs, feel free to add rosemary or even a small amount of lavender. Just remember to use them sparingly, as they can be quite strong in flavor.

6. Can I can this jam for long-term storage?

Yes, you can preserve the jam for longer shelf life by canning it. Just follow proper canning instructions to ensure it’s sealed correctly, and store it in a cool, dark place.

7. What can I use this jam for?

This Apple Thyme Jam is perfect for spreading on toast, using as a topping for cheese boards, or serving with meats like chicken. It’s also great swirled into yogurt or used as a filling in pastries and cakes.

8. How do I make the jam less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or add more lemon juice to balance the sweetness. Using a tart variety of apple will also help keep the jam less sweet.

9. Can I make this jam without lemon?

Lemon adds a nice acidic balance to the sweetness, but if you don’t have it, you can use lime juice or even a little bit of white vinegar as a substitute.

10. Can I freeze the jam?

Yes, this jam freezes well! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion.

Conclusion

This Apple Thyme Jam is a beautiful and flavorful spread that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the herbaceous, earthy notes of fresh thyme. It’s simple to make and can be used in so many ways—on toast, as a topping for meats, or as a delightful addition to desserts. With a bit of patience and a few ingredients, you can enjoy this homemade jam all year long!

Apple Thyme Jam Recipe

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Apple Thyme Jam is a unique spread that blends sweet apples with savory thyme, creating an aromatic jam perfect for toast, cheese boards, or as a topping for meats.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 2-3 jars
Category: Jam, Spread
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 cup water

4–5 sprigs fresh thyme (plus more for garnish if desired)

1 tablespoon pectin (optional)

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Instructions

Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. If using frozen apples, thaw them before starting.
In a large saucepan, combine apples, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until apples soften.
Gradually add sugar and stir until it dissolves. Continue cooking to allow apples to break down and release their juices.
Add the thyme sprigs (tied with kitchen twine or in an herb infuser) to the apple mixture. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using pectin, add it now and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken the jam.
Remove the thyme sprigs and test the jam’s consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready.
Carefully ladle the jam into sterilized jars, garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and seal tightly.
Let the jam cool to room temperature before storing. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or process the jars for long-term storage.