Small Batch Apricot Jam is an easy homemade jam with no pectin, special equipment or canning required! You only need 4 ingredients and it cooks up in about 20 minutes!
Place the apricots, sugar, orange zest and juice in a large pot and bring to a boil, stirring well.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium low, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the jam has thickened, about 20 minutes. If you're unsure, run a spoon down the center of pan and if liquid doesn't fill the middle of the pan, it's done!
Remove the jam from heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste or vanilla.
Cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the jam to an airtight jar or container and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
Notes
After 20 minutes, your jam will have thickened well, and it will thicken as it cools. If you'd like your jam to be very thick, cook up to 10 minutes longer, stirring regularly to prevent burning.
Lemon juice may be substituted for the orange juice. It's also higher in pectin, which will promote thickening.
Store jam in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
This recipe may be made with 2 pounds of your favorite fresh or even frozen fruit. Peaches, plums, cherries and any type of berries are wonderful options.