Apple Preserves: A Sweet and Simple Canning Recipe
Apple preserves are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed on toast, crackers, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. They're also a great way to preserve the sweetness of fresh apples for year-round enjoyment.
Here's what you'll need to make your own apple preserves:
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 6-8 medium apples)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Canning jars and lids (pint size recommended)
- Jar lifter
- Canning funnel
- Large bowl filled with hot water
- Water bath canner
- Ladle
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples and Sugar
- Chop the apples: Cut the apples into small pieces, about 1/2 inch in size.
- Combine the apples and sugar: Place the chopped apples in a large pot and add the granulated sugar. Stir to combine.
- Let the mixture sit: Allow the apple and sugar mixture to sit for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the apples to release their juices.
2. Cook the Preserves
- Simmer the mixture: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the apple and sugar mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Continue cooking: Continue to simmer the preserves for about 30-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add lemon juice and spices: Add the lemon juice to the preserves. You can also add the cinnamon and nutmeg at this stage if you like.
- Test for doneness: To check if the preserves are ready, place a small amount of the mixture on a cold plate. If it sets up and doesn't run, the preserves are ready.
3. Canning the Preserves
- Prepare the jars: Wash the canning jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and sterilize the jars in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Ladle the preserves into jars: Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot preserves into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims: Use a clean damp cloth to wipe the rims of the jars to remove any spills or residue.
- Secure the lids: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands finger-tight.
- Process in a water bath: Place the jars in a water bath canner, making sure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a boil, then process the jars for 10 minutes.
- Remove and cool: Carefully remove the jars from the water bath using a jar lifter. Place the jars on a clean, dry towel and allow them to cool completely.
4. Enjoy Your Apple Preserves!
Once the jars have cooled completely, you should hear a "pop" as the lids seal. If the lids don't seal, you can store the preserves in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success:
- Use firm apples: Choose apples that are firm and have a good balance of sweet and tart. Some good varieties for preserves include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala.
- Adjust the sugar content: If you prefer a sweeter preserve, you can add more sugar. You can also add a bit of honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Add other spices: Experiment with other spices like ginger, cardamom, or allspice.
- Use a food mill: For a smoother preserve, you can use a food mill to remove the apple pieces after cooking.
- Store in a cool, dark place: Once sealed, apple preserves can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Enjoy your homemade apple preserves!
