Chunky Apricot Preserves
Chunky apricot preserves feature tender dried apricots, sweet pineapple, and sugar, creating a fruity, thick spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or as a gift. Sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine apricots and water in a medium saucepan; let stand about 1 hour to plump.
- Place over medium heat and cook until apricots are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Mash apricots into coarse chunks.
- Add sugar and pineapple, blending well.
- Continue cooking over low heat until thickened, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
- Let cool, then store in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. If dried apricots are unavailable, you can substitute them with dried peaches or figs for a different taste. To ensure the preserves thicken properly, make sure to cook over low heat and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These chunky apricot preserves are perfect as a spread on toast or scones for breakfast. They also pair beautifully with cheese platters, adding a sweet contrast to savory items. Serve them alongside Glazed Carrots And Onions for a delightful side dish or use as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chunky apricot preserves in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the preserves in airtight containers for up to six months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chunky Apricot Preserves contains roughly 169 calories, with 1g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried ones?
Fresh apricots can be used, but you'll need to adjust the water content and cooking time. Fresh apricots have more moisture, so reduce the water to about 1/2 cup and cook until soft, which may take longer than with dried apricots.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, decrease the sugar by up to half and add a bit more crushed pineapple for natural sweetness. You can also incorporate a tart ingredient like lemon juice to balance the flavors without compromising the texture.
What can I do with the preserves besides spreading them?
Aside from spreading on bread, you can use these preserves as a filling for pastries or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. They can also enhance savory dishes, such as glazes for meats, or be incorporated into sauces for a unique flavor twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).