Mom's Apricot-Pineapple Marmalade

We used to have an apricot tree when I was growing up in California. Mom made this wonderful marmalade that was heavenly on biscuits. Fresh, sweet apricots make it so special.

• Ready In: 2 hrs
• Yields: 5 cups

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄2 lbs  fully ripe apricots
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple
• 1  teaspoon  fruit fresh, produce protector
• 1 (1 3/4ounce) box  sure-jell  fruit pectin
• 1⁄2 teaspoon butter
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 5  cups sugar, measured into a separate bowl

Directions

1. Bring boiling water canner, half full with water, to simmer. Wash jars and screw bands in hot soapy water. Pour boiling water over flat lids in a saucepan off the heat. Let stand in hot water until ready to use. Drain well before filling.
2. Pit apricots; do not peel. Finely chop. Measure exactly 3 1/2 cups prepared apricots into a 6 or 8-quart saucepot. Add canned pineapple to pot. Add Fruit Fresh produce protector and pectin; mix well.
3. Add butter to reduce foaming. Bring to full rolling boil (a boil that doesn't stop bubbling when stirred) on high heat, stirring contantly.
4. Add cinnamon and sugar; stir. Return to full rolling boil and boil exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with a metal spoon.
5. Ladle immediately into prepared jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of tops. Wipe jar rims and threads. Cover with 2-piece lids screw bands tightly. Place jars on elevated rack in canner. Lower rack into canner. (Water must cover jars by 1-2 inches. Add boiling water, if necessary.).
6. Cover; bring to a gentle boil. Process 10 minutes. Remove jars and place upright on towel to cool completely. After jars cool, check seals by pressing middle of lid with finger. (If lid springs back, lid is not sealed and refrigeration is necessary.).