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As the cold winter months settle in, there’s something incredibly comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of fruit jams filling the kitchen.
January may bring chilly weather, but it also ushers in a variety of delicious fruits perfect for preserving.
From the zesty tang of citrus fruits to the deep sweetness of apples and pears, January offers a bounty of fruits that can be transformed into beautiful, homemade jams.
Whether you’re looking to brighten up your breakfast toast, add a unique touch to a charcuterie board, or find a thoughtful gift idea, these 30+ January fruit jam recipes will inspire your creativity in the kitchen.
Making jam in January not only helps you take full advantage of the season’s fruits but also fills your pantry with bright, flavorful spreads to enjoy throughout the year.
In this post, you’ll find a variety of recipes featuring citrus fruits, apples, pears, and even winter berries, each offering a distinct flavor profile and texture.
Whether you’re a novice jam maker or a seasoned pro, there’s a recipe here to suit every skill level and taste preference.
30+ Delicious January Fruit Jam Recipes to Enjoy Seasonal Fruits
January fruit jams are a delightful way to capture the essence of the season and preserve its bounty for months to come.
With so many fruits at their peak during this time—like citrus, apples, pears, and winter berries—there’s no shortage of flavors to explore.
Whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or spicy jams, these 30+ recipes provide endless options for experimenting in the kitchen.
Not only will you create vibrant, homemade jams that brighten up your meals, but you’ll also have jars of delicious memories to enjoy long after the winter months have passed.
So, gather your favorite fruits, get your jars ready, and start preserving the flavors of January today!
Apple and Cinnamon Jam
This Apple and Cinnamon Jam is a delightful blend of sweet and spice, perfect for the colder months. With the tartness of fresh apples and the warm kick of cinnamon, it creates a comforting jam that pairs beautifully with toast, biscuits, or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake. It’s a simple, yet flavorful preserve that captures the essence of winter fruits.
Ingredients:
- 4 large apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples begin to soften, about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the apples are soft, use an immersion blender to purée the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, you can mash the apples manually for a chunkier texture.
- Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract, stirring to combine. Continue cooking on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Allow the jam to simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal tightly. Let it cool at room temperature before storing in the fridge.
This Apple and Cinnamon Jam offers a balanced sweetness with a hint of spice, making it a versatile option for both breakfast and dessert. The cinnamon elevates the flavor, creating a warming effect, ideal for the winter season. The jam’s thick texture makes it perfect for spreading on pastries or dolloping onto your morning oatmeal. It’s an ideal homemade gift, too, bringing joy to anyone who loves cozy flavors.
Pineapple and Ginger Jam
Pineapple and Ginger Jam offers a tropical twist to the traditional jam. With the tangy sweetness of pineapple and the zesty kick of fresh ginger, this jam is both refreshing and invigorating. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their preserves, adding a unique flavor to your breakfast spread or a marinade for savory dishes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple (diced)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pineapple begins to soften and release its juices.
- Add the grated ginger and ground turmeric (if using) to the pan. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Once the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, remove it from the heat. You can blend it slightly with an immersion blender if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Pour the jam into clean, sterilized jars and seal. Allow the jars to cool before storing in the refrigerator.
This Pineapple and Ginger Jam brings an exciting contrast of flavors, where the heat of ginger balances out the sweetness of pineapple. The turmeric adds a beautiful color and a subtle earthiness, though it’s optional depending on your flavor preference. This jam is perfect as a topping for grilled meats, served alongside cheese, or simply enjoyed on toast. Its tropical flavor is a welcome reminder of sunny days, even during the cold winter months.
Strawberry and Orange Marmalade
Strawberry and Orange Marmalade is a bright and tangy jam that blends the sweet taste of strawberries with the citrusy zing of orange. The marmalade’s slight bitterness from the orange peel contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the fruit, creating a balanced, flavorful spread. This jam is perfect for pairing with scones, croissants, or enjoying on a fresh baguette.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 1 large orange (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Combine the strawberries, orange zest, orange juice, water, and lemon juice in a large pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Add the sugar to the pot, stirring until completely dissolved. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture back to a boil. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a marmalade-like consistency.
- Test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate and letting it sit for a minute. If it gels, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
- Pour the hot marmalade into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and let it cool.
Strawberry and Orange Marmalade provides a delightful balance of sweet and tart with a refreshing citrus note. The addition of orange zest and juice gives it a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of strawberries. This marmalade is excellent for spreading on toast, adding a burst of flavor to desserts, or even using it as a glaze for roasted meats. Its vibrant color and bright taste will bring a touch of sunshine to any winter morning.
Pear and Vanilla Jam
This Pear and Vanilla Jam combines the delicate sweetness of ripe pears with the fragrant warmth of vanilla, creating a luxurious and aromatic preserve. The subtle flavors meld perfectly together, making it an ideal spread for breakfast or a unique topping for desserts like ice cream or panna cotta.
Ingredients:
- 5 medium pears (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the diced pears, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- As the mixture cooks, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the pears to your preferred consistency—chunky or smooth.
- Split the vanilla bean lengthwise, scrape out the seeds, and add both the seeds and the pod to the pot (or add vanilla extract). Stir to combine.
- Continue simmering the jam for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. The jam is ready when it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove the vanilla pod, pour the jam into sterilized jars, and seal tightly. Let it cool at room temperature before storing in the fridge.
This Pear and Vanilla Jam offers a delightful aromatic experience with each spoonful. The soft, sweet pear flavor is complemented beautifully by the warmth of vanilla, creating a rich, yet subtle preserve. It’s perfect for spreading on warm toast or adding a sweet touch to baked goods. The smooth texture and gentle flavor make this jam an elegant choice for any occasion.
Cranberry and Orange Jam
Cranberry and Orange Jam is a tart and tangy preserve, perfect for those who enjoy a burst of citrus flavor in their jams. The cranberries provide a tart base, while the orange juice and zest bring in a bright, zesty sweetness. This jam is ideal for the holidays, but its fresh and vibrant flavor is perfect year-round.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange (zested and juiced)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- Stir occasionally and mash the cranberries slightly with a spoon to break them down further if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Once the jam reaches a thick consistency, test it by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal, and let it cool before storing it in the fridge.
Cranberry and Orange Jam provides the perfect balance of tart and sweet, with the fresh citrusy zing of orange brightening up the naturally tart cranberries. This jam is versatile, making it great on toasted bread, paired with turkey, or as a topping for cheesecakes or yogurt. It’s especially festive during the holidays, though the vibrant red color and refreshing taste make it an excellent year-round treat.
Plum and Almond Jam
Plum and Almond Jam combines the deep, rich flavors of ripe plums with the nutty, slightly sweet taste of almonds. This jam offers a luxurious texture and flavor, making it perfect for spreading on toast, incorporating into pastries, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh plums (pitted and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (or 2 tablespoons chopped almonds)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir the ingredients together and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the plums start to soften, use an immersion blender to purée the mixture to your preferred consistency, or mash the plums for a chunkier jam.
- If using chopped almonds, add them to the pot at this stage. If you prefer almond extract, add it to the jam once it has finished cooking.
- Continue to simmer the jam for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired texture.
- Test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it sets, pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal tightly. Allow to cool at room temperature before storing in the fridge.
This Plum and Almond Jam has a luxurious flavor profile with the tartness of plums beautifully balanced by the sweet, nutty almond taste. It’s a sophisticated preserve that pairs wonderfully with a variety of baked goods, including croissants or sponge cakes. The almond undertone makes this jam an especially delightful treat for those who enjoy nutty flavors in their preserves. The jam’s smooth yet slightly chunky texture adds to its charm, making it a perfect addition to any breakfast table or dessert platter.
Mango and Lime Jam
This Mango and Lime Jam is a refreshing, tropical delight that brings the sweetness of ripe mangoes together with the zesty brightness of fresh lime. It’s the perfect jam for those who enjoy a tangy, vibrant flavor with a hint of exotic flair. Whether spread on toast or paired with grilled meats, this jam is a versatile and flavorful addition to any dish.
Ingredients:
- 3 large ripe mangoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the diced mangoes, sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and water. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mangoes begin to soften and release their juices.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the mangoes to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend it completely.
- Continue simmering for another 20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens to your desired consistency.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and allow it to cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.
This Mango and Lime Jam offers a tropical burst of flavor with the natural sweetness of mango complemented by the tangy zing of lime. The result is a jam that is both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for a morning toast or drizzled over vanilla ice cream. It’s an ideal way to enjoy the tropical flavors of summer, even during the colder months.
Raspberry and Honey Jam
Raspberry and Honey Jam is a beautifully balanced spread with the sweet-tart flavor of fresh raspberries paired with the smooth sweetness of honey. This jam is not overly sugary, allowing the raspberries’ natural tartness to shine through, while the honey adds a rich, floral note. It’s an elegant jam perfect for breakfast or as a topping for scones and shortbread.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the raspberries, honey, water, and lemon juice. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, occasionally mashing the raspberries with a spoon to help them break down and release their juices.
- Once the mixture has reduced and thickened, taste the jam and add more honey if you prefer it sweeter. Simmer for another 10 minutes to ensure it reaches your desired consistency.
- To test if it’s ready, place a spoonful of the jam on a cold plate. If it thickens and holds its shape, it’s done. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal, and let it cool at room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.
This Raspberry and Honey Jam offers a perfectly balanced blend of tartness from the raspberries and sweetness from the honey. Its smooth, slightly chunky texture makes it ideal for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or pairing with cheese. The honey adds a depth of flavor that makes this jam a standout, perfect for those who prefer a more natural sweetness in their preserves.
Blackberry and Rosemary Jam
Blackberry and Rosemary Jam is a sophisticated and aromatic preserve that combines the deep, sweet flavor of blackberries with the fragrant, herbal notes of rosemary. This unique combination creates a jam with an earthy richness and a fresh, piney undertone, making it perfect for savory pairings as well as sweet applications.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh blackberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the blackberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the blackberries start to break down, crush them with a spoon or potato masher to release their juice. Continue simmering for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the fresh rosemary sprigs to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the rosemary to infuse its flavor into the jam.
- Once the jam thickens to your desired consistency, remove the rosemary sprigs and test the jam’s consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator.
This Blackberry and Rosemary Jam provides a unique and fragrant flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. The earthiness of rosemary enhances the deep, sweet blackberry flavor, making this jam perfect for spreading on warm bread, pairing with goat cheese, or using as a glaze for meats. Its complexity and aromatic profile make it a standout preserve for those looking for something a little different.
Peach and Basil Jam
Peach and Basil Jam is a delicious and fragrant preserve that combines the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches with the fresh, slightly peppery flavor of basil. This jam has a vibrant, summery taste and is perfect for those looking to explore the refreshing combination of fruit and herbs. It’s an excellent spread for toast, a filling for pastries, or even drizzled over grilled meats for a sweet-savory twist.
Ingredients:
- 4 large peaches (peeled, pitted, and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, mashing the peaches with a potato masher or spoon as they begin to break down.
- Once the peaches have softened, stir in the chopped basil leaves and continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes until the jam thickens.
- Test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
- Remove the jam from heat, pour into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and let cool before storing in the refrigerator.
Peach and Basil Jam offers a delightful balance of sweet and herbal flavors. The juicy peaches provide a luscious base, while the basil adds a refreshing burst of flavor, making it an ideal complement to breakfast pastries, cheese platters, or even as a glaze for roasted meats. It’s a versatile preserve that adds a unique and aromatic twist to any dish.
Fig and Orange Jam
Fig and Orange Jam is a luxurious spread that combines the natural sweetness of ripe figs with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange. This jam has a rich, complex flavor with a hint of tang from the orange, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a more sophisticated fruit preserve. It’s perfect on toast, paired with cheese, or even used in savory dishes like braised meats.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh figs (stemmed and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the chopped figs, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and water. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, occasionally mashing the figs with a spoon or potato masher until the mixture begins to break down.
- Continue simmering for another 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens to your desired consistency.
- Test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s done. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal, and allow it to cool at room temperature before storing in the fridge.
Fig and Orange Jam offers a rich, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor profile, with the deep sweetness of figs beautifully balanced by the zesty, refreshing orange. It’s a sophisticated jam that pairs wonderfully with cheese, particularly goat cheese or brie, and is also a lovely addition to baked goods or yogurt. This unique preserve is a great way to enjoy the fruits of the season, whether spread on toast or incorporated into your favorite recipes.
Grapefruit and Rosemary Jam
Grapefruit and Rosemary Jam brings a sophisticated, slightly bitter citrus flavor together with the earthy, fragrant notes of rosemary. This jam offers a fresh, herb-infused twist on the classic citrus jam, making it an ideal spread for savory dishes or as a topping for scones and biscuits. The combination of grapefruit’s tartness and rosemary’s aromatic depth makes this preserve perfect for those looking to try something new and distinctive.
Ingredients:
- 4 large grapefruits (peeled, segmented, and juiced)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the grapefruit segments, grapefruit juice, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the grapefruit breaks down and releases its juice, mash it gently with a potato masher or spoon to help it break down further.
- Add the rosemary sprigs to the pot and continue simmering for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens.
- After the jam has thickened, remove the rosemary sprigs and test the consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s ready. If not, simmer for a few more minutes.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal, and allow it to cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.
Grapefruit and Rosemary Jam combines the bright and tangy flavor of grapefruit with the herbaceous warmth of rosemary, creating a preserve with both depth and freshness. This jam pairs beautifully with cheese, particularly sharp varieties like cheddar or goat cheese, and can also be used as a glaze for meats like chicken or pork. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys a savory-sweet preserve with an aromatic twist.
Strawberry and Balsamic Vinegar Jam
Strawberry and Balsamic Vinegar Jam brings a rich, savory depth to the classic sweetness of strawberries. The balsamic vinegar adds a unique tang that enhances the natural flavor of the fruit, creating a balanced, complex preserve that can be used in both sweet and savory applications. This jam is perfect for pairing with cheeses, meats, or simply spread on toast.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the strawberries release their juices, mash them with a potato masher or immersion blender to reach your desired texture, whether chunky or smooth.
- Continue simmering the mixture for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency.
- To check if the jam is done, place a spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels and holds its shape, it’s ready. If not, simmer for a few more minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge.
Strawberry and Balsamic Vinegar Jam offers a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity. The balsamic vinegar adds an unexpected, savory undertone that makes this jam ideal for pairing with creamy cheeses, roasted meats, or even as a drizzle over grilled vegetables. It’s a versatile preserve that works both as a gourmet spread and an accompaniment to savory dishes, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavor combinations.
Apricot and Cinnamon Jam
Apricot and Cinnamon Jam combines the sweet, slightly tart flavor of apricots with the warm, comforting spice of cinnamon. This jam captures the essence of late summer fruit, with a hint of spice to make it cozy and perfect for colder months. It’s a fantastic spread for your morning toast or as a topping for desserts like cakes and ice cream.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh apricots (pitted and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped apricots, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apricots soften and release their juices.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the apricots to your preferred texture. For a chunkier jam, leave some larger pieces intact.
- Continue simmering the mixture for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens to your desired consistency.
- Test the jam by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it sets, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool at room temperature before storing it in the fridge.
Apricot and Cinnamon Jam offers a warm, comforting flavor with the sweetness of apricots perfectly balanced by the fragrant cinnamon spice. This jam is a lovely addition to breakfast, particularly when spread on buttered toast or paired with scones and clotted cream. It’s also a great topping for pancakes or as a filling for pastries, bringing a bit of cozy warmth to any dish.
Cherry and Almond Jam
Cherry and Almond Jam brings together the tart sweetness of fresh cherries and the nutty, sweet depth of almonds. The almond flavor is subtle yet adds a comforting richness to the jam, making it a perfect complement to the bright, juicy cherries. This jam is great on toast, mixed into yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh cherries (pitted and chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (or 2 tablespoons chopped almonds)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the cherries begin to break down and release their juices, mash them with a spoon or potato masher to your desired texture.
- Add the almond extract (or chopped almonds) to the pot and continue simmering for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens.
- Test the consistency by placing a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it sets, it’s ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and let it cool at room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.
Cherry and Almond Jam combines two classic flavors in a way that is both sweet and nutty, with a delightful depth from the almond extract. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of baked goods, particularly croissants, scones, or muffins. The cherry’s natural tartness is balanced by the richness of almonds, making this jam a perfect addition to both sweet and savory dishes.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!