Easy No-Cook Apricot Freezer Jam Recipe

There’s something magical about the first taste of this easy no-cook apricot freezer jam. I still remember making it one summer afternoon with my kids gathered around the kitchen island, their little fingers sticky with apricot juice. We didn’t need a stove or fancy tools—just ripe fruit, a few simple ingredients, and a whole lot of excitement. That’s the beauty of this easy no-cook apricot freezer jam: it’s simple enough to make with kids, and the reward is a bright, golden jam that tastes like sunshine. If you’ve got 30 minutes and a handful of apricots, you’ve got magic in a jar

Why You’ll Love This:

This easy no-cook apricot freezer jam is everything you want in a homemade spread—fresh, fruity, and fast. No boiling, no pectin confusion, and definitely no pressure cookers. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes and freeze it for up to a year. It’s perfect for busy parents, first-time jam makers, or anyone craving that sweet, tangy apricot flavor without the hassle.

Unlike traditional jam recipes, this no-cook method keeps the fruit’s natural flavor bright and lively. The texture is soft and spoonable, making it perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or layering into a cake. It’s also freezer-friendly, meaning you can make a big batch and enjoy the taste of summer all year long.

What I love most is how easy this easy no-cook apricot freezer jam is to personalize. It’s a small-batch recipe, so you can adjust the sweetness, mix in spices, or even add other fruits. Whether you’re making it for your own pantry or to gift to friends, this jam is a little jar of sunshine.

Ingredients for Easy No-Cook Apricot Freezer Jam

Ingredients for easy no-cook apricot freezer jam laid out on countertop
Fresh apricots, sugar, pectin, and lemon juice ready for making jam

You only need a few simple ingredients for this recipe, which makes it even more appealing.

Ingredient Amount
Fresh ripe apricots (pitted and chopped) 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 ½ cups
Instant fruit pectin (like Ball or Sure-Jell) 3 tablespoons
Fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Substitutions & Variations:

This easy no-cook apricot freezer jam is endlessly adaptable. Here are some smart swaps and flavorful twists:

  • Use frozen apricots: If fresh aren’t in season, thawed frozen apricots work just fine. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.
  • Lower sugar version: You can reduce the sugar slightly, but make sure to use a low-sugar or no-sugar pectin so the jam still sets.
  • Add-ins: Stir in a splash of vanilla extract, grated ginger, or a pinch of cinnamon for added depth.
  • Fruit blends: Mix apricots with peaches, mangoes, or strawberries for a custom flavor blend.
  • Citrus swap: Replace lemon juice with orange or lime for a different tang.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy No-Cook Apricot Freezer Jam

Step-by-step making of easy no-cook apricot freezer jam
Step-by-step process of making easy no-cook apricot freezer jam

Making this easy no-cook apricot freezer jam is surprisingly quick and totally stress-free. Follow these steps for a perfect batch every time:

  1. Prepare the apricots: Wash, pit, and finely chop your ripe apricots. You can pulse them in a food processor if you prefer a smoother jam, but don’t purée—leave some texture.
  2. Combine with lemon juice: In a mixing bowl, stir the apricots with fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor and help preserve color.
  3. Mix sugar and pectin: In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine the sugar and instant pectin.
  4. Stir everything together: Pour the sugar-pectin mix into the fruit. Stir vigorously for 3–5 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens slightly.
  5. Let it rest: Let the jam sit for about 10 minutes. It’ll continue to thicken as the pectin activates.
  6. Transfer to containers: Spoon the jam into clean, freezer-safe jars or plastic containers, leaving about ½ inch at the top for expansion.
  7. Freeze or refrigerate: Let jars sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before freezing. Store in the fridge if using within 3 weeks.

That’s it! This easy no-cook apricot freezer jam sets up beautifully and tastes like fresh summer fruit.

Pro Tips :

  • Use ripe—but not overripe—apricots: They should be soft and fragrant but not mushy. Overripe fruit can make the jam watery.
  • Don’t skip the lemon juice: It adds brightness and preserves the jam’s gorgeous golden color.
  • Measure accurately: Too much fruit or too little sugar can affect the consistency.
  • Stir well: Undissolved sugar can lead to grainy texture. Stir until it feels smooth and glossy.
  • Label and date: Always mark your containers so you know when you made them.

Storage & Reheating Tips :

This easy no-cook apricot freezer jam is meant for the fridge or freezer, not the pantry.

  • Refrigerator storage: Keeps fresh for up to 3 weeks. Store in clean, airtight jars.
  • Freezer storage: Keeps for up to 12 months. Make sure to leave space at the top of your containers to prevent cracking.
  • Thawing: Move the jar from freezer to fridge and let it thaw overnight. Stir before using.
  • No reheating needed: Since it’s no-cook, this jam is ready to use straight from the fridge.

Freezer jam is all about convenience and freshness. Make a big batch now, and enjoy golden apricot goodness any time of year

What to Serve With Easy No-Cook Apricot Freezer Jam

Toast topped with easy no-cook apricot freezer jam on breakfast table
Enjoy easy no-cook apricot freezer jam spread on warm toast

This easy no-cook apricot freezer jam adds a sweet, tangy twist to so many everyday dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

  • Toast and bagels: A classic pairing—spread it on buttered toast or a toasted bagel with cream cheese.
  • Yogurt bowls: Swirl a spoonful into Greek yogurt and top with granola for a simple breakfast or snack.
  • Cheese boards: Serve alongside sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or goat cheese with crackers for an elegant appetizer.
  • PB&J upgrade: Swap out grape jelly for this apricot jam—it’s a game changer.
  • Dessert topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, or sponge cake.
  • Glaze for meats: Use it as a glaze for pork chops or chicken—just warm it slightly and brush it on.

With this easy no-cook apricot freezer jam in the fridge, the possibilities are endless.

FAQs About Easy No-Cook Apricot Freezer Jam

Can I use other fruits instead of apricots?

Absolutely. Peaches, strawberries, or mangoes work well using the same base method. Just make sure they’re ripe and juicy.

Do I need to peel the apricots?

Nope! Apricot skins are soft and blend right into the jam. Just wash them well and chop finely.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but mix in two separate batches. Larger quantities can prevent the pectin from setting properly.

What’s the difference between regular and freezer jam?

Freezer jam isn’t cooked, so it has a fresher flavor and softer texture. It must be stored in the fridge or freezer, unlike shelf-stable cooked jam.

How long does it take to set?

Usually within 30 minutes at room temp, and it continues to thicken in the fridge.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 1 Tablespoon)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 35
Sugar 7g
Sodium 0mg
Fat 0g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 0.5g
Protein 0g
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  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 10 mins
  • Yield: 4 half-cup servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy no-cook apricot freezer jam is a quick and fresh way to enjoy homemade jam without the hassle of cooking. It’s perfect for busy families and beginner cooks alike.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh ripe apricots (pitted and chopped)

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

3 tablespoons instant fruit pectin

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice


Instructions

1. Wash, pit, and chop apricots finely.

2. Mix apricots with lemon juice in a bowl.

3. Combine sugar and instant pectin in a separate bowl.

4. Stir sugar-pectin mixture into apricots vigorously for 3-5 minutes.

5. Let jam rest for 10 minutes to thicken.

6. Spoon jam into freezer-safe jars, leaving ½ inch headspace.

7. Allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before freezing.

Notes

Use ripe but firm apricots for best results.

Do not skip lemon juice; it helps preserve color and flavor.

Stir well to dissolve sugar completely.

Label jars with date before freezing.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Jam
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 70
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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