Homemade Jams That Keep Summer Close

Homemade jams are a simple way to enjoy the best parts of summer all year long. Whether you use berries, stone fruits, or a mix, they bring a burst of fresh flavor to your kitchen. Made with just a few ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and store.

From spreading on toast to adding to yogurt or desserts, there are plenty of ways to use jam beyond breakfast. You can make them with or without pectin, depending on your texture preference. Some versions also include spices or herbs for a unique twist.

These recipes focus on using seasonal fruit at its peak, letting the natural flavors shine. They’re great for preserving what you love most about warmer months. Whether you’re stocking your pantry or gifting a jar, homemade jam is always a good idea.

Strawberry Jalapeño Jam

Strawberry jalapeño jam balances sweet and mild heat in one small batch recipe. It’s made to be enjoyed cold, spooned over cream cheese, toast, or grilled meats. The flavor is fresh without being too spicy, and it’s a great way to use summer strawberries with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Jalapeño Jam

Blueberry Chia Jam

This version uses chia seeds to thicken, keeping it light and naturally rich in texture. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a shortcut jam without pectin or complicated steps. Bonus—it’s lower in sugar and loaded with real berry flavor.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Chia Jam

3-Ingredient Strawberry Jam

No need for long grocery lists here. Just strawberries, a bit of sweetness, and a touch of lemon are enough to make a bright, spoonable jam you’ll reach for often. It’s ideal for small batches or quick weekend prep.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Strawberry Jam

Easy Strawberry Jam

This easy jam is all about simplicity, perfect for when strawberries are in season and you want to make something fresh and sweet in under 30 minutes. You only need a few basic ingredients, no pectin needed, to bring out the fruit’s natural flavor. It stores well and makes for a lovely spread on toast or as a topping for yogurt.
Get the Recipe: Easy Strawberry Jam

Peach Jalapeno Jam

Sweet and spicy meet in this unexpected combo that works great on crackers, sandwiches, or even grilled meats. The jalapeño adds a gentle kick that complements the peach instead of overpowering it. It’s one of those small-batch recipes that feels a bit special but isn’t complicated to pull off.
Get the Recipe: Peach Jalapeno Jam

Plum and Rose Jam

This jam has a subtle floral twist that brings out the richness of ripe plums. It’s perfect for pairing with soft cheeses or layering into desserts. A touch of rose water goes a long way in making it feel a bit more refined.
Get the Recipe: Plum and Rose Jam

Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam

Savory meets sweet in this smoky blend that works surprisingly well on burgers or breakfast biscuits. The maple gives it depth, the bacon brings richness, and the bourbon ties it all together. It’s bold, a little unconventional, and totally worth trying.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam

Ground Cherry Jam

Ground cherries have a unique, slightly tropical flavor that turns into something golden and mellow when cooked down. It’s not a common pantry item, but it’s well worth making if you can get your hands on them. Great for spreading on toast or gifting to friends who like trying new flavors.
Get the Recipe: Ground Cherry Jam

Blueberry Jam

A go-to for good reason, this one is classic and full of juicy berry flavor. You can make it with or without pectin depending on how you like the texture. It’s excellent on scones, pancakes, or stirred into oatmeal.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Jam

Carrot Cake Jam

Think of all the warm, cozy spices from carrot cake—now imagine them in a jar. This jam is sweet, a little spiced, and has a nice texture thanks to bits of carrot and pineapple. It’s a fun twist that works well for gifting or enjoying with cream cheese on toast.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Jam

Apricot Thyme Jam

Herbs in jam? Absolutely—thyme brings out the apricot’s flavor in a subtle, savory way. This one works especially well as a glaze or paired with goat cheese. It’s fragrant, fresh, and just a little unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Thyme Jam

How to Make Apricot Jam without Sugar

This recipe skips the refined sugar but still manages to bring out the apricot’s natural sweetness. Perfect if you’re trying to reduce added sugars while still enjoying homemade spreads. You can use honey, fruit juice, or go completely unsweetened—it still works beautifully.
Get the Recipe: How to Make Apricot Jam without Sugar

Simple and Delicious Fig Jam

Fresh or dried figs both work well in this easy, no-fuss recipe. It’s rich, slightly earthy, and pairs perfectly with cheese boards or even swirled into baked goods. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness without overwhelming the figs.
Get the Recipe: Simple and Delicious Fig Jam