This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.
If you’re in a pinch and need some substitutes for apricot jam, never fear! There are plenty of other options that will work just as well. We will have you covered for sweet applications or savory. But before we go into these lovely alternatives for apricot jam. Let’s make sure we understand what it tastes like so we can find the perfect replacement.
What Does Apricot Jam Taste Like?
Apricot jam is a fruit spread made from apricots, sugar, and pectin. It is thick and sweet, with a smooth texture and a bright golden orange color. Out of all the jams and jellies…Apricot is one of my top favorite flavors.
Now when it comes to taste, apricot jam is primarily sweet, with a subtle tang from the fruit. The sweetness is balanced by the slight tartness of the apricots, resulting in a well-rounded flavor. Apricot jam pairs well with bread, desserts, or yogurt. And goes awesome as a glaze for ham. It’s my go-to for thanksgiving every year. It can also be used as a filling for cakes or pies. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a recipe, apricot jam is a delicious way to enjoy the flavor of summer all year long. It’s a winner!
Substitutes for Apricot Jam
Dried Apricots
Dried apricots are a great substitute for apricot jam because they will have the closest flavor profile and sweetness level you are looking for! Simply chop up the dried apricots and reconstitute them with some hot water. Once they are plumped up, throw them in the blender! Ta-da makeshift apricot jam. Then you can add this to your recipe in place of the apricot jam. You may need to add a little bit of water to get the desired consistency, but dried apricots are a great way to make an easy substitution.
Fresh Apricots
If you are truly blessed to get your hands on fresh apricots, you can make a quick apricot jam and use it for your recipe. Just keep in mind that store-bought apricots will need more sugar than locally-grown apricots. In my book, there is no comparison to taste. I grew up with an apricot tree, and the flavor right off the tree is unbelievable. But store-bought and even frozen will work! Here is a great recipe for a quick 30-minute apricot jam recipe.
Peach Jam
If no dried or fresh apricots are available, then your best bet is to go to the next stone fruit option. Peach!
Peach jam is another great option for substituting apricot jam. It has a similar sweetness and can be used in the same ways. Just make sure to check the ingredients list on your peach jam to make sure it doesn’t have any funny added fruits that wouldn’t work well in your recipe. There are lot of jams with mixed fruits out there.
Nectarine Jam
Nectarine Jam is another stone fruit like apricot and peach. Nectarines are very similar to apricots, but they have a slightly sweeter flavor. They also tend to be more firm, holding their shape well when cooked.
Since fresh nectarines are sold throughout the summer, you can try making a quick nectarine jam, be sure to use ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture. The end result will be a delicious jam that can be used as an awesome apricot jam substitute.
Orange Marmalade
An orange marmalade is a citrusy option that makes a great substitute for apricot jam. It’s got a similar sweetness and can be used in the same ways. It even has a similar color if that’s important to the recipe, like glazes. Just be aware that orange marmalade will add that burst of orange flavor to your recipe, so keep that in mind when making substitutions.
Duck Sauce
Duck sauce may not be what you typically think of when you think of jams and jellies, but it actually makes a great substitute for apricot jam. That’s because duck sauce has apricot jam in it!
It’s got a similar sweet and savory flavor that can really elevate your recipe. But let me make this clear this is for a savory application, not for desserts. PLEASE don’t add duck sauce to a cake or pie or anything sweet!
This is for that chicken dish or salmon you have wanted to make. Just be aware that duck sauce is also going to add some saltiness to your dish, so keep that in mind when using this apricot substitution.
Honey
Honey is a great all-purpose sweetener that can be used in place of apricot jam. It’s got that sticky sweetness and can be used in the same ways. And depending on the honey, you can bring some floral or fruity notes. Just be aware that honey will add some additional moisture to your recipe, so keep that in mind when using it.
Apple Jelly
Apple jelly is made with juiced apples and should not be confused with apple butter. This can be a nice substitute for apricot jam. It’s got sweetness but a slight tartness. So, it can be used interchangeably with apricot in many ways. Just be aware that apple jelly will add some additional tartness to your recipe, so keep that in mind when using it and taste as you go.
Ginger Jelly
Ginger jelly is a great way to add some spice to your recipe while still getting the sweetness from the jelly. It’s not an exact replacement for apricot jam, but it can work nicely, especially in savory dishes or holiday desserts where spices are used. Just be aware that ginger jelly will add some heat to your dish, so keep that in mind on the type of recipe you are making and if people don’t like things spicy.
What NOT To Use As A Substitute for Apricot Jam
Not all jams will work as a replacement for apricot jam. Your goal is to find something as similar as possible. And the internet is notorious for spouting out some random stuff. The best thing to do is look at your recipe and gauge what flavors would work best.
With that said, here are jams that I can’t recommend if you need an apricot jam alternative.
- Grape Jam
- Barry Jams (Strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackberry, etc….)
- Cherry Jam
- Currant Jams
- Fig Jam
My Final Thoughts on Apricot Jam Substitutes
There are plenty of substitutes for apricot jam, so you don’t need to worry if you don’t have any on hand! Dried apricots, peach jam, orange marmalade, duck sauce, honey, apple jelly, and ginger jelly are just a few great options that will work just as well as the apricot jam. So next time you’re in a pinch, don’t fret—just reach for one of these substitutes instead! Happy Cooking!
