Recipe: Black Currant and Apple Jam

Black currant and apple jam is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. The richness of the black currants blends beautifully with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a jam that’s perfect for spreading on toast, adding to pastries, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. This easy-to-make jam is a great way to preserve the fresh fruits of the season and enjoy them throughout the year.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make this vibrant jam step by step. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

2 cups black currants (fresh or frozen)
2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 cup water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Prepare the Black Currants
If using fresh black currants, rinse them thoroughly. If using frozen currants, thaw them and drain any excess liquid. Place the currants in a large pot.
Prepare the Apples
Peel and core the apples, then chop them into small pieces. Add the chopped apples to the pot with the black currants. The apples will help sweeten the jam and provide a soft texture.

Step 2: Cook the Jam

Add Sugar and Lemon Juice
To the fruit, add the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir the mixture to combine and dissolve the sugar. The lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and enhances the fruit flavor.
Simmer the Mixture
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the fruit from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the fruit has broken down and the jam has thickened.
Optional: Add Cinnamon
If you like a bit of spice, you can add ground cinnamon to the jam for extra warmth and flavor. Stir it in and continue to cook the mixture.

Step 3: Test the Jam’s Consistency

Check the Jam
To test if the jam is ready, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready. If it’s still too runny, continue to cook for a few more minutes and test again.

Step 4: Jar the Jam

Sterilize the Jars
Before jarring the jam, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or placing them in a hot oven (about 220°F or 110°C) for 10 minutes.
Fill the Jars
Once the jam is ready, carefully ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars to remove any residue before sealing with the lids.
Process the Jars (Optional)
If you want to store the jam for a longer period, process the jars in a water bath for about 10 minutes to ensure a tight seal. Let the jars cool completely before storing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve
Once the jam has cooled, it’s ready to serve. Spread it on toast, use it as a topping for desserts, or enjoy it in your favorite recipes.
Store
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year if processed, or in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks if opened.

Tips and Variations

Adjust the Sweetness
Depending on the tartness of the black currants and the sweetness of the apples, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar. Taste the jam as it cooks and add more sugar if needed.
Make It Chunky or Smooth
If you prefer a smooth jam, you can use an immersion blender to puree the mixture after it has cooked. For a chunkier texture, simply leave the fruit as is.
Add Spices
Experiment with adding other spices such as nutmeg or ginger to create a unique flavor profile.

Health Benefits

Black Currants
Black currants are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and fiber. They are known for their immune-boosting properties and their ability to improve skin health and fight inflammation.
Apples
Apples are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They promote digestive health and may help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease.

Storage

Store the jam in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within 2-3 weeks.

Conclusion

Black currant and apple jam is much more than a sweet-tart spread—it’s a celebration of the rich flavors of summer that you can enjoy throughout the year. The deep, bold taste of black currants pairs perfectly with the delicate sweetness of apples, creating a jam that is as versatile as it is delicious. Its smooth texture and vibrant color make it a standout addition to your pantry, bringing a touch of homemade charm to every meal.

This jam is perfect for spreading on warm, buttery toast or flaky croissants, making your breakfast or brunch feel extra special. It also shines as a topping for desserts like cheesecake, panna cotta, or ice cream, adding a fruity richness that elevates any dish. For a creative twist, use it as a filling for pastries, swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal, or even pair it with savory dishes like roasted meats or cheese platters for a sophisticated touch.

One of the joys of making black currant and apple jam at home is the ability to control the flavors and sweetness to suit your preferences. With its natural ingredients and absence of preservatives, this jam is a wholesome treat that embodies the essence of homemade goodness.

Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or as a thoughtful gift for friends, this jam is sure to be a hit. Its unique combination of tart black currants and sweet apples offers a flavor profile that’s both familiar and surprising, making it a delightful addition to any recipe or occasion.

Try this recipe today and let the taste of summer linger in your kitchen. Each spoonful is a reminder of nature’s bounty, packed with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness to brighten any meal or moment.

Recipe: Black Currant and Apple Jam