Apricots are a perfect summer fruit, being ripe from June through August, but what do you use when you need a great substitute for apricot preserves?
One of the best alternatives to apricot preserves is other fruit preserves or jams. Whether it’s strawberry, raspberry, or peach, these preserves offer the same deliciousness and versatility as an apricot.
It is easy to make a quick apricot jam or even prepare it as a dried fruit snack. But when the season comes to an end, and you run out of your homemade apricot preserves, which excellent substitute should you turn to?
The choices are nearly endless! Here’s the scoop on the best apricot preserve substitutes.
Preserves vs. Jams
The difference between preserves and jams lies in their texture and fruit content. Preserves typically have larger chunks or whole pieces of fruit suspended in a thick, sweet syrup or gel.
On the other hand, jams are made by cooking crushed or finely chopped fruit with sugar until it forms a thick, smooth consistency. Jams have a more uniform texture compared to preserves, as the fruit is broken down into smaller pieces during the cooking process.
While both preserves and jams maintain the essence of fruits, their differing textures offer unique experiences that cater to varying preferences and cooking applications.
20 Best Apricot Jam Substitutes
1. Strawberry Preserves
For a vibrant and slightly tart alternative to use in place of apricot, turn to strawberry preserves. Substituting apricot preserves with strawberry preserves isn’t just a practical choice; it’s an invitation to embrace the vibrant, berry-filled essence that strawberries bring to your dishes.
With their sweet and tangy profile, strawberry preserves promise a burst of flavor that will elevate your culinary creations.
2. Peach Jam or Preserves
Peach jam is another great choice. It offers a notably similar flavor profile to apricot preserves, making them an ideal substitute.
Much like apricots, peaches boast a natural sweetness with a slight tanginess that adds depth to your dishes. This shared flavor range ensures that peach preserves can seamlessly replace apricot preserves without compromising the overall taste.
Use peach preserves as a spread, glaze, or ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
3. Raspberry Jam
Raspberry jam brings a bold burst of flavor that can take the place of apricot jam with ease. Its vibrant color and sweet-tart taste elevate both breakfast and dessert options.
Raspberry jam is also a great dish to make at home. As simple as selecting ripe raspberries, simmering them gently with sugar and a hint of lemon juice, and watching as they transform into a mouthwatering preserve bursting with berry flavor.
4. Orange Marmalade
When seeking a distinctive twist on apricot jam, orange marmalade steps into the spotlight. The chunky texture and tangy taste of marmalade offer a unique contrast to the smooth sweetness of apricot jam.
Although we are aware that orange marmalade isn’t considered a jam or preserve, the tanginess of orange marmalade opens up a realm of creative possibilities. Imagine drizzling it over a roast chicken to create a delicious caramelized glaze, or including it into a marinade for a burst of bright flavor.
5. Fig Preserves
Indulge in the rich, earthy flavors of fig preserves as an alternative to apricot. The depth of fig preserves adds a touch of sophistication and earthiness to your dishes. Pair them with cheese, spread them on crostini, or incorporate them into charcuterie boards.
Not only do they have a similar texture, but figs also provide a unique and fresh flavor. Like apricots, figs are high in pectin, a natural substance that helps the preserve set. The result is a delicious and spreadable fig jam that adds a unique twist to any recipe.
6. Cherry Preserves
When it comes to homemade jam, cherry preserves can be a delightful apricot jam substitute. Cherry preserves offer a rich flavor that is different from apricot preserves. The deep red color and sweet-tart taste of cherry preserves can add a new element to your morning toast or afternoon tea sandwiches.
Whether it’s spread over a warm scone or used as a filling for pastries, cherry preserves are made to bring a unique and delicious twist to any recipe. So, next time you’re looking to change things up, give cherry preserves a try and experience a whole new level of fruitiness.
7. Blueberry Jam
For a milder alternative to apricot preserves, consider using blueberry in place of apricot. The gentle sweetness of blueberries adds a delicate flavor that works well in a variety of applications.
Berry jam is another delicious option that can replace apricot jam in recipes or as a spread on toast. It offers a slightly different flavor profile, with the tartness of the blueberries contrasting with the sweetness of the apricots.
The deep, rich color of blueberries can also add aesthetics to dishes and baked goods. Whether you want to add sweetness to your breakfast or experiment with new flavor combinations, blueberry jam is a fantastic alternative to apricot preserves.
8. Pineapple Preserves
Infuse a taste of the tropics by substituting apricot preserves with pineapple preserves. The bright, tangy-sweet flavor of pineapples can add a refreshing and sweet taste to your dishes.
Pineapple preserves offer a more unique and refreshing flavor than apricot preserves, making them an exciting substitute to use in various dishes. Their tropical taste adds a delightful twist to traditional recipes, infusing a burst of tanginess.
9. Blackberry Jam
If you’re looking to switch things up in the kitchen, blackberry jam is another great substitute for apricot preserves. Similar to apricot jam, blackberry jam is made from ripe blackberries that are cooked down with sugar.
Blackberry jam also has a chunkier texture than apricot jam, adding an extra burst of flavor and bite to your dishes. Try putting it on toast with a little goat cheese, a drizzle of honey is a great way to top off the dish!
10. Apple Butter
Swap apricot preserves with apple butter for a cozy, fall-inspired alternative. The warm, spiced flavors of apple butter make it a perfect partner for toast, muffins, or as a glaze for roasted meats.
Apple butter can be found in almost any grocery store, making it easy to purchase and enjoy. Just make sure to use it in a few fall recipes and applications where you would typically use apricot preserves.
11. Pear Preserves
Pear preserves offer a delicate and subtly sweet flavor that can complement a variety of dishes. Their understated taste makes them a nice substitute for apricot preserves in recipes where you want a more subdued taste.
Pear preserves are typically thicker and less runny than apricot preserves. While apricot preserves have a smooth consistency, pear preserves tend to be more chunky with small pieces of pear.
Although the texture may vary, the flavor of pear preserves is distinct and offers a delightful alternative to the traditional apricot flavor.
12. Grape Jelly
The classic appeal of grape jelly makes it a familiar alternative to apricot preserves. Its sweet grape flavor is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
If you’re looking for a great apricot jam alternative, grape jelly might be just what you need. It offers a different flavor profile that can give your taste buds a pleasant surprise.
Not only is it a great substitute, but it also has a slightly chunkier texture compared to the smoothness of apricot jam. You can find grape jelly at any local grocery store, making it easily accessible for your cooking or snacking needs.
13. Cranberry Sauce
Consider using cranberry sauce as a tangy and slightly tart substitute for apricot preserves. The brightness of cranberries can add a refreshing contrast to dishes.
Unlike the smooth and sweet consistency of apricot preserves, cranberry sauce offers a chunkier texture that adds a pop of freshness to each bite. The vibrant red color of cranberry sauce also adds a visually appealing element to your Thanksgiving spread, making it a delicious and eye-catching addition.
14. Lemon Curd
Lemon curd offers a zesty and lively flavor that can uniquely replace apricot preserves. The tanginess of lemons adds a burst of brightness to your creations.
Whether slathered on warm scones or sandwiched between layers of cake, lemon curd adds a burst of freshness and tang that perfectly complements the buttery and sweet elements of any recipe.
15. Duck Sauce
For a truly unexpected substitution, embrace the interplay of sweet and savory by incorporating duck sauce and other unconventional alternatives.
Duck sauce replacing apricot preserves is an interesting and unique twist on traditional culinary practices. This new trend adds a delightful Asian flavor to dishes that would typically rely on the sweetness of apricot preserves.
Its tangy and slightly sweet taste brings a refreshing and unexpected element to various dishes, making it a novel choice for those looking to experiment with their palate.
16. Peach Mango Preserves
Embrace a taste of the tropics by using peach mango preserves as a substitute for apricot. Peach mango preserves make an excellent substitute for apricot preserves in sweet dishes due to the similarity between peaches and apricots.
Both fruits offer a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile, allowing for a seamless transition in recipes such as malva pudding. While apricot preserves are famous for their golden orange color and texture, peach mango preserves offer a delicious alternative.
With their juicy sweetness and tropical undertones, they become one of the best substitutes, complementing a wide range of desserts and enhancing the overall taste experience.
17. Plum Preserves
For a deep and flavorful alternative, substitute apricot preserves with plum preserves. The rich taste of plums can add a touch of luxury to your dishes.
Plum jam can be the perfect substitute for apricot preserves when you need apricot but can’t find any. While the taste profile may not be the same, plum jam still offers a tangy and sweet flavor that can satisfy your craving.
The texture of plum jam is also similar to apricot preserves, making it an excellent alternative. So, if you find yourself without apricot preserves, don’t hesitate to reach for a jar of plum jam instead.
18. Kiwi Jam
For a truly unexpected alternative, opt for kiwi jam. The bright and tangy taste of kiwi can provide a refreshing twist to both sweet and savory dishes.
Its vibrant green color and tart-sweet taste make it a delightful addition to toast or pastries. The natural flavors and health benefits of kiwi make this jam a great choice for any breakfast or snack.
19. Guava jam
Infuse your recipes with the exotic sweetness of guava jam as a substitute for apricot preserves. The tropical flair of guava can elevate a variety of dishes, from pastries to glazes for meats.
Guava jam is a great substitute for apricot preserves due to its similar texture and flavorful taste. With its tropical and slightly tangy flavor, guava jam offers a unique twist compared to traditional apricot preserves.
20. Rhubarb Jam
Lastly, rhubarb jam is a great alternative to apricot preserves. It brings a distinct tartness that can be a refreshing departure from apricot preserves. Its unique flavor works well in desserts, and sauces.
With a slightly tart flavor and a chunkier texture, it makes for a delicious and unique spread for toast or pastries. The vibrant pink color and tangy taste of rhubarb jam are great for adding a pop to your breakfast or dessert.
The Best Fruit to Replace Apricot and a Great Substitute For Apricot Preserves
Although there are almost endless alternatives for apricot jam and plenty of substitutes, here are our top three from the list.
At number three we chose plum preserves. Although plums and apricots don’t have the same flavor profile, the smooth texture, and tangy, sweet flavor still satisfy our apricot cravings.
Our runner-up is peach mango preserves. The flavor, texture, and tanginess are all similar to the apricot fruit and allow for a seamless transition between recipes such as malva pudding.
Lastly, the winner of the best apricot jam substitute is peach preserves! It offers a remarkably similar flavor profile to apricot preserves with the same natural sweetness that comes from apricots. Using peach preserves as an alternative to apricots is the best option!
FAQ: Substitutes for Apricot Jams and Preserves
What are the best substitutes for apricot jam?
The best substitutes for apricot jam include peach jam, plum preserves, and peach and mango preserves. These options closely mimic the flavor of apricot and can be used in various recipes.
Can homemade apricot jam be used as a substitute?
Absolutely! Homemade apricot jam is an excellent substitute for store-bought apricot jam. It will add a fresh and authentic flavor to your dishes.
Can I use peach preserves instead of apricot jam?
Yes, peach preserves can be used as a substitute for apricot jam. It will provide a similar fruity taste to your recipes.
Are there any substitutes for apricot jam in savory dishes?
If you’re looking for a substitute for apricot jam in savory dishes, you can try using duck sauce or a glaze made from dried apricots. These options will add a touch of sweetness to your dish while complementing the savory flavors.
What can I use if I don’t have apricot jam for desserts?
If you don’t have apricot jam for your desserts, you can use peach jam, plum jam, or even a combination of raspberry and strawberry jam. These alternatives will provide a fruity and delicious flavor to your sweet treats.
Can I use apricot preserves as an alternative to apricot jam?
Certainly! Apricot preserves can be used as an alternative to apricot jam. They have a similar flavor and texture, making them a suitable substitute.
Choosing the Best Substitute For Apricot Jam
When it comes to finding the best option for an alternative to jam and preserves made from apricots, the options are nearly endless!
From the fall classic, apple jam to the unexpected twist of duck sauce many preserves are popular. But, remember the distinct sweet and tangy flavor that comes with fresh apricots.
The flavor, color, and texture of apricot match nearly perfectly with a peach or plum, leaving these fruits to be the closest and most reliable choice to substitute an apricot.
Whether you are making malva pudding or a simple jam to put on your morning toast, you are bound to find an alternative that works for you!
There you have it, the scoop on the best substitutes for apricot preserves!
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