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Before the home refrigerator was invented in 1913, a lot of fruit went to waste unless it was preserved as a jam or jelly. This form of preservation was invented as a way of being able to eat out of season fruits as well as being a method of shipping fruits long distances.
If, like us, you’ve been out foraging or you have an abundance of fruit that you just don’t know what to do with, don’t let it go to waste. Try making your own jams and jellies. It is not just a case of strawberry, grape, or orange marmalade anymore – although there’s nothing wrong with those flavors. There are so many other exciting flavors to try that can help you use up your excess fruit. If you’ve tried all of our 76 Apple Recipes, maybe making some apple jam is the way forward!
What Is the Difference Between Jam and Jelly?
We all enjoy spreading them on toast, or adding a big dollop into out morning porridge, but what is the difference between jam and jelly? It all comes down to how much of the original fruit is in the finished product.
When making jelly the fruit is crushed and any excess lumps are thrown away. This is then mixed with pectin and heated to create a smooth, clear finished product. Jam is also made by crushing fruit but the solid pieces of fruit are left in. As jelly contains pectins, its texture is more solid than jam, and therefore, many not spread as easily.
JAM RECIPES
You would be surprised at how many amazing jam recipes there are. Yes, classic fruit jams are beautiful, but you don’t need to limit yourself to these preserves. Take a look at some of the best jam recipes I have found, which includes some wonderful flavor combinations and even some scrummy savory jam recipes.
1. Classic Strawberry Jam
A simple strawberry jam recipe, packed full of fresh fruit that’s given a zing with lemon just and sweetened with sugar. Can be stored for up to a year if preserved in a jar correctly.
2. Rhubarb and Ginger Jam
Sweet and spicy, with just the right amount or tartness, this unusual jam recipe is made with fresh rhubarb and crystallized stem ginger. Warm and fruity, the seasonal jam is beautiful spread liberally on fruit scones.
3. Quince Jam
This easy recipe for quince jam is made from grated fresh quince, lemon juice, and sugar. Add an extra layer of flavor or spice by adding a little cardamom, nutmeg, or vanilla.
4. Tamarillo Chilli Jam
Tamarillo (aka the tree tomato) works great in both sweet and savory jam recipes. This tamarillo jam has layers of flavor, with spicy red chillis and zingy balsamic vinegar. It goes so well with pork and white fish.
5. Orange, Coriander, and Thyme Jam
Looking for a jam that is versatile? This orange, coriander, and thyme jam is a beautiful glaze for roast chicken and is just as good spread over a chunky slice of sourdough toast.
6. Carrot Jam
There are a lot of delicious vegetable jam recipes and this is one of the best. Tasting a lot like apricot jam, this carrot jam has a beautiful smooth texture and is made from just three ingredients.
7. Blueberry and Lime Jam
The stunning combination of blueberry and lime makes this one of the best homemade jam recipes. The zing of fresh lime zest and juice elevates the juicy flavor of the blueberries. Gorgeous dolloped on buttermilk pancakes.
8. Banana Jam
For an inexpensive jam recipe, why not try banana jam. Yes, it is a different kind of jam to what you usually find in the supermarket, but it is so delicious and can be made all-year-round as bananas are always in season.
9. Mango Jam
A tropical homemade preserve, this mango jam is so fruity and is a great way to use up any leftover mangos towards the end of the season before they are overripe.
10. Cherry Quick Jam
Looking for a quick and easy jam recipe? Look no further than this cherry quick jam recipe. Once you have pitted the cherries, your homemade jam is made in just ten minutes. It will make a great filling for pies and pastries.
11. Spiced Pear Jam
A wonderful canning jam recipe, this spiced pear jam has wonderful autumnal flavors that will beautifully complement your Sunday roast or jazz up your ham sandwiches.
12. Plum and Apple Jam
This fruity plum and apple jam is the perfect autumn jam with its delicate flavor, lovely texture, and vibrant color. It’s a lovely breakfast jam, that’s also great with scones and cream for afternoon tea.
13. Rhubarb and Vanilla Jam
This fruit jam recipe has the perfect balance of both sweetness and tartness, plus a wonderful color and texture. The addition of vanilla to the rhubarb creates a stunning, flavorful jam that is delicious spread over muffins.
14. Apricot and Riesling Jam
A grown-up jam recipe with beautiful fresh apricots seasoned with Reisling wine. Most of the alcohol cooks out and gives a delightfully subtle flavor that perfectly complements the tangy apricots. Perfect on some warm toast.
15. Strawberry and Prosecco Jam
From one alcohol-infused jam to another, this fabulous strawberry and prosecco jam is perfect for a sophisticated afternoon tea. Spread liberally on scones, and a glass of the bubbly stuff.
16. Microwave Blueberry Jam
Yes, microwave jam is a thing! It’s perfect for making small batches of jam in a short space of time. This stunning blueberry jam is made in just ten minutes.
17. Pineapple Jam
Sweet and tart, with bits of juicy pineapple in every bite, this simple jam recipe is perfect for beginners. With just two ingredients, within 20 minutes you can have a sunny and fresh jam, that will brighten up any morning.
18. Fig and Lime Jam
An easy sweet jam recipe with a zing of lime. Its a great breakfast jam, but also is stunning served with a cheeseboard. A versatile jam and a great way to preserve figs for when they are out of season.
19. Bacon Jam
This savory jam recipe is surprisingly easy to make, is moreish, and will keep for up to a month in the fridge. It’s sweet, sticky, and smokey, and is amazing added to a grilled cheese sandwich.
20. Raspberry and Chocolate Jam
A no-pectin jam recipe for all the chocoholics out there. The natural sweetness of the raspberries works so well with the bitterness of dark chocolate. Great with croissants, scones, as a filling for a Victoria sponge, or swirled through vanilla ice cream.
21. Lemon Jam
If you love the zesty freshness of lemon, you will love this pectin-free jam recipe. This lemon jam is great as a cake filling, spread over crumpets, or on pancakes. Just three ingredients are required: lemons, water, and sugar.
22. Sweet Chilli Jam
Sweet, sticky, and spicy this chili jam is such a versatile savory preserve. Use it to marinate chicken, as a dip for your favorite chips, serve with your favorite cheeses, or pop it in a stirfry.
23. Blackberry Vanilla Basil Jam
This blackberry jam has layers of sweet and earthy flavors, with a subtle creaminess that comes from vanilla. The secret ingredient is a single clove of roasted garlic, which really amplifies the flavors of this unusual jam.
24. Watermelon Jam
Such a unique jam recipe, this watermelon jam is light and fresh and packed full of juicy watermelon. Use it to give a flavor of watermelon to cakes or pies, or spread on toast for a lovely summer breakfast.
25. Rose Hip Jam
A great jam recipe for foragers is this lovely rose hip jam. Collect rose hips in the summer and combine with fresh orange and tart green apple for a great balance of flavor.
26. Raspberry and Rhubarb Jam
A low sugar jam recipe that will tantalize your taste buds. The sweetness of the fresh raspberries is balanced perfectly with the tartness of rhubarb for a beautiful fruity jam. Spread on buttery toast for a tasty breakfast, one that the whole family will enjoy.
27. Carrot Cake Jam Recipe
Great on toast, an unusual sauce for ice cream, or a tasty topping for your breakfast pancakes, this carrot cake jam is sweet, fruity, and warm with spice. A super canning jam recipe for fall with a unique flavor.
28. Pumpkin Jam
Put the pumpkin from Halloween to good use with this versatile jam recipe. The pumpkin jam is made from four ingredients and has a depth of flavor. Tasty on biscuits, served with custard, or as a filling for cookies.
29. Red Onion Jam
Another stunning savory jam recipe, this red onion jam is made with balsamic vinegar and slowly reduced red wine, for a sweet, tart, and fruity jam. Beautiful in tarts or used as a chutney in your favorite sandwiches.
30. Caramel Apple Jam
The complementing flavors of fresh apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar come together in this lovely preserve recipe. The moreish jam is just as nice spread on your morning toast, or as a sauce for your pork roast.
31. Blackberry, Vanilla & Bourbon Jam
You’ll struggle to find three flavors that complement each other better than blackberry, vanilla, and bourbon. The homemade jam is sweet and mellow, with a bold, but not overpowering, touch of bourbon.
32. Tomato Jam
An easy jam recipe, this tomato jam shows off the beautiful fruit at it best with just a seasoning of salt and pepper. It is one of the best jams to server with a selection of cheeses after dinner.
33. Blueberry, Lemon, and Basil Jam
An easy homemade jam full of the summery goodness of blueberries, the zing of lemon and the wonderful aroma of basil. The jam is packed with flavor and tastes great on waffles and bagels, or even on a chicken breast.
34. Bourbon and Bacon Jam
The combination of bacon and bourbon makes this one of the best savory jam recipes ever! It’s sweet and sticky, savory, and just a little spicy, with big chunks of bacon giving the jam a wonderful texture.
35. No Sugar, No Pectin Blackerry Jam
This super easy jam to make is sweetened with a little honey so it’s not sickly. It is a no pectin jam recipe and is 100% natural so you can really taste the fruit.
36. Pina Colada Jam
If you like pina coladas (and getting caught in the rain) than you’ll love this tropical and zingy jam. Spread liberally on cheese and crackers, or add to chicken and pork dishes to give a tropical twist.
37. French Apple Jam
This unique jam recipe is perfect for small batches and is very easy to make. The French apple jam has a fresh fruity flavor, a hearty chunky texture, and a surprise hint of cardamom spice.
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38. Salted Cantaloupe Jam
A little bit of salt sprinkled on fresh cantaloupe really elevates the flavor, so when the two are combined in a jam, you get a beautifully sweet jam, with just a hint of the savory. A unique canning recipe.
39. Strawberry Peach Jam
This jam recipe captures all of the flavors of summer with the beautiful combination of apple, peaches, and strawberries. The chunky jam is ideal for your morning toast and it freezes very well for up to a year. It tastes delicious too!
40. Pineapple Mango Jam
Wine lovers will really enjoy this mango jam that combines the flavors of juicy tropical fruits and sweet Moscato wine. It is beautiful when served with a strong cheese and some chunky bread.
41. Banana and Lime Jam
This is such an easy jam recipe that will bring some zing to breakfast time or added to your peanut butter sandwich. It’s a great alternative to banana bread for using up those overripe bananas.
42. Zucchini Pineapple Jam
If you’re looking for a new way to use zucchini, you’ll be surprised to know that it makes a really beautiful jam. The pineapple adds some sweetness to the zucchini, without being overpowering. It is wonderful spread over biscuits.
43. Cinnamon Blueberry Jam
A lovely jam recipe with pectin, this blueberry jam has a beautiful deep color, pleasant texture, and the unexpectant but delicious warmth of cinnamon. A great jam for frozen fruit.
44. Raspberry Peach Freezer Jam
A beautiful homemade jam that’s packed full of delicious ripe fruit. Even better, this is a recipe for freezer jam, so you don’t need to worry about having to use up the jam quickly, you can enjoy it all year round.
45. Smokey Bacon Jam
This savory jam is perfect for taking your sandwiches or breakfast to the next level of deliciousness. Classic bacon jam is wonderful, but the rich earthiness of the smoked bacon adds an extra layer of flavor. Add it to your breakfast to make it even more perfect.
46. Strawberry Habanero Jam
This might seem like a strange combination, but adding a bit of habanero to your strawberry jam adds a bit of a bite and heat that is so pleasant on the palate.
47. Raw Raspberry, Fig, and Chia Jam
The great thing about this raw jam recipe is not having to worry about added sugars or preservatives – just delicious fresh fruit and chia seeds. Plus, no cooking is required.
48. Kiwi and Apple Jam
A quick and easy jam recipe that’s made using a microwave, this kiwi and apple jam is such a lovely way to enjoy the unique flavor of kiwi fruit. This is another great jam to add to your cheese board.
49. Jalapeno Strawberry Jam
The great thing about this easy strawberry jam is that you can control the level of heat and spice by adding or taking out peppers. The sweet and spicy jam is a great marinade for chicken, as well as on your morning toast.
50. Spicy Fig Microwave Jam
Another great microwave jam recipe is this fig jam that is has a citrus zing from orange and lemon, plus some seasonal spice with ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. Better yet this small-batch jam can be made in just minutes in the microwave.
51. Apple Pie Jam
What could be better than apple pie? Well, apple pie jam is a close second with its chunky cubes of apple, spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. It could even be used as a quick filling for some mini apple pies.
52. Pear Vanilla Jam
A thick and chunky jam with big lumps of beautiful pear flavored with fresh vanilla. It’s a lovely canning recipe for the distinctive taste of fresh pear whenerver you want. No more waiting for your pears to ripen.
53. Dark Cherry Mulberry Jam
If you like black forest flavors, you’ll love the deep and juicy flavors or this dark cherry and mulberry jam. Swirl through whipped cream and add to chocolate cake for a easy but scrumptious dessert.
54. Blackberry Freezer Jam
Freezer jam is so simple to make, especially as you can use frozen blackberries. This is a jam recipe that uses gelatin instead of pectin, so it will last only a week in the fridge, but up to a year in the freezer.
55. Small-Batch Fig and Honey Jam
A no-canning jam recipe that is free of pectin and refined sugar, as figs thicken up all by themselves. Figs and honey is a classic fig combination, which is beautiful in a preserve and with cheese it is delightful.
56. Low Sugar Peach Jam
If you want a low-sugar jam recipe that is still super fruity, this peach jam is perfect. The homemade jam is still sweet and bursting with the summery flavor of peach. Swirl through vanilla yogurt for a delicious snack or breakfast.
57. Christmas in July Pepper Jam
This sweet and spicy jam is made with a combination of peppers, chilli flakes, and cider vinegar. For the ultimate afternoon snack spread this delicious pepper jam liberally on a chunky cheese scone
58. Strawberry Balsamic Jam
Balsamic vinegar and strawberries are one of the best flavor combinations, which unsurprisingly makes a beautiful jam. Keep it simple when serving – pop a huge dollop on a scone with butter or cream.
59. Green Tomato Jam
This jam recipe requires a little effort, but it is worth it. With just three ingredients – fresh green tomatoes, lemon juice, and superfine sugar – you will have a delicious and tart jam that is best served on a cheese sandwich.
60. Pomegranate Jam
Packed full of antioxidants and a scrummy juicy flavor, pomegranates make a wonderful jam when juiced. swirl through yogurt or ice cream for a delicious treat.
JELLY RECIPES
If you prefer a smoother and thicker preserve, jelly is probably the spread for you. As with jam, there are so many great jelly recipes – ones that can be spread on your morning toast, and plenty that can be used to bring another layer of flavor to your meals.
61. Black Coffee Jelly
Something for the coffee lovers in this unusual jelly recipe. Black coffee jelly can give you an extra boost of caffeine when spread on your morning toast and makes for a beautiful dessert when dolloped on chocolate or vanilla ice cream.
62. Root Beer Jelly
Another unusual recipe for jelly is this root beer jelly, which tastes just like the classic soda. The pectin-jelly recipe can be replicated with all of your favorite sodas, such as Dr. Pepper and Mountain Dew.
63. Dandelion Jelly
The unique jelly recipes continue, with this dandelion flower jelly. It’s easy to make and tastes just like honey with a subtle zing of lemon. Use it in all the normal ways, or as a replacement for honey in sweet tea.
64. Crabapple Jelly
The small, tart apples are high in natural pectin, so this is a pectin-free jelly recipe. A great foraging recipe, this crabapple jelly has a lovely sweetness that works so well with deli meats and cheeses.
65. Cranberry Sriracha Pepper Jelly
This sweet and spicy jelly has a ruby-red color and is made from a combination of cranberries, jalapenos, sriracha sauce, sugar, and fresh orange juice. It can be used in a number of ways, including as a glaze.
66. Cucumber Jelly
A great savory jelly recipe, this cucumber jelly is light and fresh. The delicate flavor complements smoked salmon and cream cheese beautifully. Pile high on crackers for a yummy snack.
67. Hedgerow Jelly
Hedgerow jelly is just as it sounds – a delicious homemade preserve using all the wonderful fruits that can be foraged from hedgerows, such as blackberries, raspberries, rosehips, elderberries, and crabapples for the natural pectin.
68. Elderberry Jelly
Tasting like a cross between blackcurrant and blueberry jam, this elderberry jelly recipe produces a sweet and earthy preserve that is rich in flavor. For a low sugar jelly, use honey instead of refined sugar.
69. Mint Jelly
This canning jelly recipe is great for using up any mint in your garden. The delicate mint flavor is so fresh and when the jelly is combined with chocolate spread on your morning toast the taste is extraordinary.
70. Apple Cinnamon Jelly
Fruity and spicy, this apple cinnamon jelly is ideal for toast, pancakes and biscuits, or even as a topper to jazz up a vanilla cheesecake. A festive jelly that would make a great Christmas gift.
71. Lavender Jelly
This easy jelly recipe is aromatic and sweet with the perfume-like flavor of Lavender. The color of the jelly is as beautiful as the taste, making this a wonderful jelly gift.
72. Champagne Jelly
Made with just pink champagne, sugar and fruit pectin this blush-hued jelly is definitely one for the grownups. Spread liberally over your favorite shortbread for a naughty afternoon treat.
73. Cinnamon Red Hot Jelly
Looking for an unusual jelly recipe like nothing you have ever tasted before? Then this is it! It’s made from cinnamon red hot candies and apple juice, making the jelly sweet and spicy, and utterly delicious!
74. Sunflower Jelly
Sunflowers can be used for more than their seeds, the flowers can also be used to make a unique jelly. The flavor or sunflower petals is very mild, but the addition of lemon juice really brings the delicate floral flavor to life.
75. Edible Flowers Jelly
A foraged jelly recipe that is golden colored and includes the stunning flavors of edible flowers, fresh vanilla beans, and raw honey. The perfect accompaniment for your morning toast.
76. Roasted Garlic Jelly
Sunflowers can be used for more than their seeds, the flowers can also be used to make a unique jelly. The flavor or sunflower petals is very mild, but the addition of lemon juice really brings the delicate floral flavor to life.
77. Lemon Jelly
A fabulous sweet and tangy lemon yell made with plenty of freshly squeezed lemon juice and some clementine juice to mellow out the lemon. An easy no-pectin jelly recipe.
78. Candy Apple Jelly
Another jelly recipe that contains cinnamon red hot candies, but this time with plenty of apple juice. This results in a jelly that tastes just like candy apple straight from the carnival.
79. Lilac Flower Jelly
Did you know that lilac flowers are edible? They are and they make a really yummy jelly that’s easy to make. It has a subtle floral taste that is in no way overpowering. Enjoy with biscuits, cheese and crackers, and so much more.
80. Pepper Jelly
Spicy and tangy, with flavors reminiscent of sweet chili sauce, pepper jelly is not just a great dipping sauce but would make an amazing marinade for fish and meat.
81. Coconut Lime Jelly
Fresh, sweet, and zesty, this coconut and lime jelly is sure to be a favorite with the whole family. An unusual canning recipe with all the tropical flavors or a pina colada.
82. Orange Juice Jelly
This is a great recipe for jelly when you don’t have any fresh fruit in your kitchen. The canning recipe only requires orange juice, fruit pectin, white sugar, and water. Simple, but really delicious.
83. Rose Petal Jelly
A beautifully fragrant and cheap to make jelly, rose petal jelly can be made with wild rose petals you can forage on a walk. It’s lovely used as a glaze for a lemon cake, or server with fresh berries and French toast.
84. Port Wine Jelly
Need a jelly recipe that goes with everything? Port wine jelly is it!. It can be served as a condiment for your roast turkey, spoon it over goat cheese, or just enjoy it on your favorite toast. It really is that versatile.
85. Quince Jelly
A beautiful homemade quince jelly, which has a beautiful color, taste, and aroma. It’s sweet and rich, with hints of apple, pear, and citrus. One of the best jellies for cheese.
86. Cider Sage Jelly
This jelly recipe is easy to make, with cider and lemon combining to create a fresh apple flavor, while the addition of sage gives a subtle herby aroma. A great jelly for Thanksgiving.
87. Grape Jelly
Made from just three ingredients – grape juice, white sugar, and pectin – this easy homemade jelly recipe is super fruity and really deserves a place on your cheese board. Why not try different types of grape juice.
MARMALADE RECIPES
Marmalade is different from other fruit preserves as it is made almost exclusively with citrus. Plus a real marmalade contains thin slices of peel, as well as bits of fruit within the spread. I’ve found so many great marmalade recipes for you to try, many of which are really versatile, as well as delicious.
88. Blood Orange Marmalade
Blood oranges work really well in marmalade recipes as they are a litle tarter than regular oranges. This home canned marmalade will taste its best when eaten within a year.
89. Gin and Lime Marmalade
Gin is the flavor of the moment, and as it works so well with citrus fruits, it’s a great addition to your homemade marmalade recipes. Gin and lime marmalade is zingy and tangy, with a grownup kick for your morning toast.
90. Meyer Lemon Marmalade
Homemade marmalade recipe, requiring just three ingredients: Meyer lemons, sugar, and water. Meyer lemons are more mellow than regular lemons, which makes a smooth and tangy marmalade.
91. Seville Orange Marmalade
The classic English marmalade made famous my Paddington bear, Seville orange marmalade is sweet, sticky and tangy. Enjoy your own marmalade sandwich, or server on crepes or pancakes for a stunning breakfast.
92. Apple and Walnut Marmalade
A versatile and easy marmalade recipe, that is sweet with dessert apples, with the zesty tang of lemon, and the earthiness of walnuts. Enjoy all the flavors of this unique marmalade by serving on scones.
93. Mandarin Marmalade
For a marmalade that isn’t too sweet, this mandarin marmalade will be delicious on seeded toast or dolloped on your morning porridge. The pectin-free marmalade is also a beautiful sauce for pork.
94. Margarita Marmalade
A new twist on the classic cocktail, this marmalade is perfect for the colder months, warming you up from the inside out. Most of the alcohol from the tequila will cook out, leaving that distinctly agave flavor.
95. Pink Grapefruit and Vanilla Marmalade
The sweet and sour flavors of pink grapefruit are complemented perfectly with vanilla in this marmalade. It smells gorgeous and tastes even better.
96. Kumquat and Vanilla Marmalade
The peel of the kumquat is surprisingly sweet, whilst the fruit itself is sour, so together in a marmalade, they complement each other. The vanilla adds an extra dimension with it’s creamy, almost white chocolate flavor.
97. Lemon Ginger Marmalade
This golden marmalade is sweet with sugar, zesty with lemon, and warm with fresh ginger. Right at home on your morning toast, on your favorite yogurt, or mixed into your tea for a comforting brew on a cold day.
98. Whiskey Marmalade
Add a kick to your traditional orange marmalade by adding a generous glug of your favorite Irish whiskey. Plus, by replacing dome of the sugar with treacle or molasses adds a hint of smokey bitterness.
99. Aperol and Red Grapefruit Marmalade
This marmalade recipe has the sweet juiciness of the pink grapefruit and bitter orange notes of Aperol. Tastes just like an Aperol Spritz…delicious!
100. Spicy Canned Onion Marmalade
Canned spicy onion marmalade is such a versatile preserve, perfect for glazing meat such as pork or steak, as a condiment for appetizer platters, or as a spread to jazz up sandwiches.
101. Carrot Marmalade
Don’t let leftover carrots go to waste ever again. Preserve them with this unusual marmalade recipe. Probably the best accompaniment to blue cheese you will find.