Making your own jams and preserves is such a satisfying way to use fresh spring produce. You get to control exactly what goes into it, and it’s honestly easier than most people think. Plus, there’s nothing quite like opening a jar you made yourself—it just hits differently than store-bought.
Spring is the best time to get started because so many fruits and veggies are in season. From sweet strawberries to unexpected options like carrots, there’s no shortage of delicious things to work with. These are 11 of my most favorite to work with.
Tomatoes
I know tomatoes don’t scream “jam,” but hear me out—they’re amazing. Cherry or grape tomatoes work best because they’re naturally sweet and packed with flavor, but even regular tomatoes will work if you seed them first. It’s not your typical fruit jam, but that’s kind of what makes it fun.
Tomato jam is surprisingly versatile. Add some sugar and lemon juice to keep it sweet, or go for a savory vibe with chili flakes or smoked paprika. Spread it on toast, serve it with cheese, or even use it as a glaze for meats. Once you try it, you’ll get why it’s a thing.
Carrots
Carrot jam sounds a little different, but it’s one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” kinds of things. Carrots are naturally sweet, and when you cook them down with sugar and citrus, they transform into a bright, flavorful spread that’s perfect for breakfast or even desserts.
Grate the carrots so they cook evenly, then add orange zest or juice to bring out that fresh, citrusy flavor. If you’re feeling bold, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a little warmth. It’s simple, unexpected, and always a hit.
Strawberries
Strawberries are a go-to for jam-making because they’re naturally sweet and flavorful. They make a jam that works just as well on toast as it does as a filling for desserts. To get the best results, pick ripe, red berries. Overripe ones might be mushy, and under-ripe berries can taste bland, so aim for that perfect middle ground.
If you want to add a little something extra, you can toss in lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Strawberries also pair well with other fruits, like rhubarb, if you’re looking for a mix of sweet and tangy.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb isn’t just for pies—it makes a great jam, too. Its tart flavor balances perfectly with sugar, giving you a jam that’s not overly sweet. Rhubarb works well on its own, but it’s also great paired with strawberries or citrus fruits for a little variety.
When prepping rhubarb, make sure to skip the leaves since they’re not safe to eat. Stick to the stalks, chop them up, and cook them down with sugar. Adding a bit of orange zest can also give your rhubarb jam a nice pop of flavor.
Blueberries
Blueberries make a great jam because they’re naturally sweet and full of flavor. They’re also high in pectin, so they thicken up easily without any added fuss. Whether fresh or frozen, they’re easy to turn into a jam that’s great on pancakes, biscuits, or even in yogurt.
For a little twist, you can add a hint of vanilla or a dash of cinnamon to your blueberry jam. It’s simple, versatile, and always tastes great.
Peaches
Peaches are a favorite for jam because they bring a natural sweetness and a fresh, summery taste. Start with ripe peaches to get the most flavor, and blanch them quickly to make peeling easier.
Adding lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and keeps the flavor from feeling too heavy. If you’re in the mood to experiment, you can throw in some ginger or vanilla to mix things up. Peach jam is easy to make and always a hit.
Plums
Plums are a great choice if you’re looking to make a jam or preserve that feels a little more elevated. They’re naturally sweet with just enough tartness to keep things interesting, and their deep color makes your finished jars look amazing. Stick with ripe plums that feel firm but give slightly when you press them.
If you want to get creative, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cloves to your batch. The spices bring out the fruit’s richness and add a warm, cozy flavor that works well in everything from toast spreads to glaze for meats.
Apricots
Apricots are naturally sweet, slightly tangy, and basically made for preserves. They’re soft and easy to cook down, so you don’t need to babysit them too much while they turn into jam. Fresh apricots are ideal, but if you’re stuck with dried ones, you can rehydrate them to get a similar result.
They’re delicious on their own, but apricots also love to share the spotlight. Pair them with cherries or even peaches if you’re feeling adventurous. A squeeze of lemon juice is all you need to brighten the flavor and balance out the sweetness.
Raspberries
Raspberries are one of those fruits that feel fancy but are so easy to work with. They’ve got this perfect mix of sweetness and tartness that makes them a great choice for jams. Whether you’re grabbing fresh ones at the farmer’s market or digging into a bag of frozen berries, they cook down beautifully into a spread you’ll want to put on everything.
If you’re in the mood to experiment, try pairing raspberries with strawberries or blackberries for a mixed berry jam. You can even toss in a bit of fresh mint for something different. It’s a little extra effort, but it’s totally worth it.
Blackberries
Blackberries are perfect for jam because they’re packed with flavor and just enough tartness to keep things balanced. They’re juicy, rich, and work well on their own or mixed with other fruits like blueberries or apples. If you’re not a fan of the seeds, no problem—just strain them out for a smoother texture.
All you really need is some sugar and a little lemon juice to make blackberry jam shine. If you’re feeling fancy, you can throw in a touch of vanilla or even a splash of port wine for something unique.
Cherries
Cherries might take a little more work—hello, pitting—but they’re absolutely worth it when it comes to jam. Sour cherries are especially great because their tangy flavor balances out the sweetness of the sugar. If you can get fresh cherries, that’s the way to go, but frozen will work in a pinch.
A squeeze of lemon juice can bring out their natural flavor, and if you want to add a little depth, try tossing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Cherries also pair well with other fruits like apricots or strawberries, so you can get creative if you’re in the mood.
*This article was created with the assistance of AI.