There’s something magical about making your own fruit jam—the aroma of simmering fruit, the satisfaction of a perfectly spreadable jar, and the joy of capturing summer flavor all year round. This Homemade Fruit Jam recipe is simple, customizable, and free of artificial additives. With just three ingredients, you can create a vibrant, sweet, and tangy spread that’s perfect for toast, cheese boards, yogurt bowls, and even gift jars.
🕒 Quick Facts
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes + cooling
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Yields: 2 small jars (approx. 1½ cups total)
🍓 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh fruit | 1 lb (about 5 cups chopped) – strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches, etc. |
| Sugar | ¾ cup (adjust based on fruit sweetness) |
| Lemon juice (fresh) | 3 tablespoons |
📌 Pro Tip: Taste your fruit before adding sugar. Ripe summer fruit often needs less!
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
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Wash your fruit thoroughly.
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Peel if necessary (for peaches, apricots, etc.).
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Chop into small pieces. For berries, you can mash lightly for a chunky jam or leave whole for a smoother spread.
Step 2: Cook the Jam
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In a medium saucepan, combine chopped fruit, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
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Stir to combine, and use a potato masher or spoon to help break down the fruit as it heats.
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Once sugar is dissolved, turn heat to high and bring mixture to a gentle boil.
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Stir frequently and cook for 15–20 minutes until the mixture thickens.
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Jam test: Place a small spoonful on a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when you push it, it’s ready.
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Step 3: Store the Jam
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Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Pour warm jam into 2 clean jars (sterilized if storing longer term).
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Leave about ½ inch of space at the top, seal, and let cool at room temp.
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Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or process in a boiling water bath for shelf-stable storage.
🔄 Variations to Try
| Combo | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|
| Strawberry + Rhubarb | Sweet & tart—classic spring blend |
| Peach + Apricot | Sunny, tropical flavor with a smooth texture |
| Raspberry + Blueberry | Bold, deep berry flavors with great color |
| Fig + Balsamic | Sweet and savory—perfect for cheese boards |
💡 Pro Tips & FAQs
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No Pectin? No problem! The natural pectin in most fruits (especially citrus, berries, and apples) thickens the jam. For firmer jam, add 1 tsp powdered pectin.
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Sugar-Free Option? Use honey or maple syrup, but note it may affect shelf life and texture.
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Want it smoother? Blend the jam before storing for a jelly-like consistency.
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Need it shelf-stable? Process sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
🍯 Nutrition Info (Per Serving – ~8 servings total)
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Calories: 80
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Sugar: 18g
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Fiber: 1g
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Fat/Protein: 0g
👉 Nutrition values may vary based on fruit and sugar used.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy homemade jam is:
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🛒 Made with only 3 ingredients
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🍑 Customizable with your favorite seasonal fruits
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💰 Budget-friendly and preservative-free
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🎁 Perfect for gifting or meal-prep
Whether you’re making it for breakfast spreads, dessert toppings, or holiday gift jars, this fruit jam delivers fresh flavor and homemade charm with minimal effort.
📩 Bonus: Want More Jam Recipes?
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🫙 Ready to make a batch of homemade happiness? Grab your fruit and start simmering—your perfect jam is just 30 minutes away!