Apple Preserves ๐๐ฏ
Description: From a Christmas Entertaining cookbook, this recipe promises a delectable treat that embodies the essence of the holiday season. With a blend of tart apples, sugar, and a hint of fresh lemon juice, these preserves are not only bursting with flavor but also low in cholesterol, making them a healthy addition to your pantry.
Recipe Category: Apple
Keywords: Fruit, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, < 4 Hours, Easy
Yield: 2 pints
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | Tart apples |
| 2 1/2 | Water |
| 3 | Sugar |
| 2 | Fresh lemon juice |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Apples:
- Begin by washing, coring, and peeling the apples.
- Cut them into eighths, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
-
Create the Syrup:
- In a large saucepan, combine the water and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.
- Let it boil for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly, then set it aside to cool.
-
Cook the Apples:
- Stir the chopped apples and fresh lemon juice into the cooled syrup.
- Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the apples gently until they turn clear and transparent, maintaining their shape. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
- To prevent breaking the apples, gently shake the pan occasionally instead of stirring vigorously.
-
Prepare the Jars:
- While the apples are cooking, prepare your jars for canning.
- Ensure the jars and lids are sterilized by boiling them in water for a few minutes.
- Leave them in hot water until ready to use.
-
Fill the Jars:
- Once the apples are cooked to perfection, remove the pan from heat.
- Using a sterilized, slotted spoon, carefully transfer the apple slices into the hot, sterilized jars.
- Leave about a 1/2-inch space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion.
-
Finish the Preserves:
- Return the syrup to the stove and bring it to a boil again.
- Cook the syrup until it reaches the jellying point, which is around 118ยฐF to 120ยฐF (48ยฐC to 49ยฐC). This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- To test if the syrup is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done.
- Carefully spoon the hot syrup over the apples in the jars, leaving that same 1/2-inch headspace at the top.
-
Seal and Store:
- Allow the preserves to cool down slightly before sealing the jars with the sterilized lids.
- Once sealed, let the jars cool completely at room temperature.
- Label the jars with the date and store them in the refrigerator.
-
Enjoy:
- These apple preserves are a delightful addition to your breakfast spread, perfect with toast or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
- They also make wonderful gifts for friends and family, especially during the holiday season.
- Stored properly, these preserves will keep indefinitely, ready to bring a taste of autumn to your table whenever you desire.
Whether you’re preserving a bounty of fresh apples from the orchard or simply looking for a cozy kitchen project, these homemade apple preserves are sure to bring joy with every spoonful. ๐โจ
