Description
A classic homemade apple jam recipe using Bramley apples, lightly spiced with cinnamon and balanced with lemon juice for a glossy, thick spread perfect for toast or desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 1kg Bramley apples, peeled, cored and chopped
Sweeteners & Spices
- 250g caster sugar
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 cinnamon stick
Liquids
- 350ml water
Instructions
- Prepare frozen plate: Place a small plate in the freezer to chill, which will be used later to test the jam’s consistency.
- Cook apples and sugar: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped Bramley apples, caster sugar, and 350ml water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Simmer until apples collapse: Continue cooking gently for about 30 minutes, stirring regularly until the apples have broken down and the mixture has thickened.
- Add lemon and cinnamon: Stir in the juice of half a lemon and add the cinnamon stick. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes thick and glossy.
- Test jam consistency: Retrieve the chilled plate from the freezer and drop a small amount of jam mixture onto it. Let it sit for a few seconds to cool and check if it is fairly firm. If the jam is still runny, return the pan to low heat, simmer for another 10-15 minutes, then retest on the frozen plate.
- Jar and store: Once the jam has reached the desired thickness, remove the cinnamon stick and pour the jam into clean, sterilised jars. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dry place. The jam can be kept unopened for up to three months. After opening, refrigerate and consume within one month.
Notes
- Ensure jars are properly sterilised to prevent spoilage.
- Use Bramley apples for a perfect balance of tartness and texture.
- The frozen plate test ensures the jam sets correctly without overcooking.
- Once opened, always keep the jam refrigerated to extend freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Jam
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: apple jam, homemade jam, Bramley apples, cinnamon apple jam, fruit preserves
