Who says you can’t enjoy the sweet, fruity goodness of jam without all the sugar? Dive into our collection of 18 Delicious Low Sugar Jam Recipes that promise all the flavor with none of the guilt. Perfect for health-conscious home cooks across North America, these recipes are your ticket to enjoying homemade jams that are as nutritious as they are tasty. Let’s spread the joy, the healthy way!
Strawberry Chia Seed Jam
Transform your morning toast or yogurt with this effortlessly sweet and nutritious Strawberry Chia Seed Jam, a healthier twist on the classic that’s ready in no time.
1
jar5
minutes10
minutesIngredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, honey or maple syrup, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chia seeds. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the jam to a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set and thicken further.
The magic of chia seeds not only thickens this jam naturally but also packs it with omega-3s, making your breakfast both indulgent and wholesome.
Tip: For a smoother jam, mash the strawberries with a fork or blend the mixture lightly before adding the chia seeds.
Blueberry Lemon Jam
Brighten up your mornings with this homemade Blueberry Lemon Jam, bursting with fresh flavors and a hint of citrusy zest.
3
jars10
minutes20
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups fresh blueberries, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tbsp lemon juice over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp lemon zest and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Let the jam cool slightly before transferring to jars.
The secret to this jam’s vibrant flavor is the fresh lemon zest, which adds a bright, aromatic touch to the sweet blueberries.
Tip: For a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture before adding the lemon zest and vanilla.
Raspberry Vanilla Jam
There’s nothing quite like the sweet, tangy burst of homemade Raspberry Vanilla Jam to brighten up your morning toast or afternoon scone. This recipe is a foolproof way to capture the essence of summer in a jar.
4
jars10
minutes20
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups fresh raspberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the raspberries, 2 cups of granulated sugar, the seeds from the vanilla bean, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir gently to mix.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the jam thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate. If it gels and doesn’t run, it’s done. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
- Once thickened, remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to clean jars. Seal the jars while the jam is still warm.
The magic of this jam lies in the vanilla bean’s flecks, which add a subtle depth and aroma that elevates the raspberries’ natural vibrancy. Perfect for gifting or savoring all year round.
Tip: For a smoother jam, press the cooked raspberries through a fine mesh sieve before adding the sugar and vanilla.
Peach Basil Jam
There’s something magical about the combination of sweet peaches and fragrant basil in this homemade jam—it’s like summer in a jar!
3
jars40
minutes45
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups peeled, pitted, and chopped peaches (about 6 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the peaches, basil, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to draw out the juices.
- After 30 minutes, place the pot over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool slightly. Pour into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace, and seal.
The subtle peppery note from the basil elevates the peach’s natural sweetness, creating a jam that’s perfect for toast, cheese boards, or even as a glaze for grilled meats.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend half of the mixture before returning it to the pot to continue cooking.
Blackberry Lime Jam
There’s nothing quite like the bright, tangy sweetness of homemade Blackberry Lime Jam to elevate your morning toast or dessert creations.
2
sandwiches10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups fresh blackberries
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the blackberries, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, and 2 tbsp fresh lime juice. Mash the blackberries slightly with a potato masher to release their juices.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp lime zest and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Let the jam cool for 5 minutes before transferring to jars.
The vibrant lime zest and vanilla add a surprising depth to the jam, making it a standout spread that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.
Tip: For a smoother jam, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the lime zest and vanilla.
Apple Cinnamon Jam
There’s nothing quite like the sweet and spicy aroma of Apple Cinnamon Jam simmering on the stove—this recipe turns your kitchen into a cozy autumn haven.
4
servings35
minutes30
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apples, 2 cups granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Stir well and let sit for 30 minutes to macerate.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 20 minutes until the apples are soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to jars. The jam will thicken further as it cools.
This Apple Cinnamon Jam stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, and the chunks of apple give it a delightful texture that’s irresistible on toast or swirled into yogurt.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend half of the cooked mixture before adding the cinnamon and vanilla.
Cherry Almond Jam
There’s something undeniably special about homemade jam, and this Cherry Almond Jam brings a delightful twist to your morning toast or afternoon scone.
2
jars40
minutes30
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well and let sit for 30 minutes to macerate.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 20 minutes until the cherries are soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the almond extract and slivered almonds. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
The combination of sweet cherries and nutty almonds creates a jam that’s both rich and refreshing, perfect for elevating your breakfast or gifting to a friend.
Tip: For a smoother jam, you can blend half of the mixture before adding the almonds.
Apricot Ginger Jam
Transform your breakfast toast or cheese board with this vibrant Apricot Ginger Jam, blending sweet fruit with a spicy kick.
5
sandwiches15
minutes20
minutesIngredients
- 2 lbs fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chopped apricots, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice. Let sit for 1 hour to macerate.
- After macerating, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20 minutes, continuing to stir occasionally.
- Add 2 tbsp freshly grated ginger and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, stirring well to incorporate. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the jam thickens and passes the spoon test (when a spoonful holds its shape on a cold plate).
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars. Seal and process in a water bath for 10 minutes if planning to store long-term.
The ginger adds a warm, spicy depth to the sweet apricots, making this jam a standout for its bold flavor profile.
Tip: For a smoother texture, blend half of the jam before adding the ginger and cinnamon.
Plum Cardamom Jam
Transform your summer plums into a fragrant, spiced jam that’s perfect for toast, yogurt, or even as a glaze for meats. This Plum Cardamom Jam combines the sweetness of ripe plums with the warm, aromatic touch of cardamom for a truly unique spread.
3
sandwiches15
minutes20
minutesIngredients
- 2 pounds ripe plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to draw out the juices.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the mixture starts to thicken.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cardamom and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, until the jam reaches your desired consistency. To test, place a small amount on a cold plate; if it gels, it’s ready.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars. Seal and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
The magic of this jam lies in the cardamom’s ability to elevate the plums’ natural sweetness without overpowering it, creating a balance that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend the mixture with an immersion blender before adding the cardamom.
Pear Vanilla Bean Jam
Transform ripe pears into a luxuriously fragrant Pear Vanilla Bean Jam that’s perfect for spreading on toast or swirling into yogurt.
3
jars15
minutes55
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped pears (about 4 large pears)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the chopped pears, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, the seeds from 1 vanilla bean, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer, about 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, about 45 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
The magic of this jam lies in the vanilla bean’s tiny seeds, which infuse every spoonful with a warm, floral aroma that elevates the sweet pears.
Tip: For a smoother jam, mash the pears with a potato masher during cooking, or blend briefly with an immersion blender after cooking.
Fig Orange Jam
Transform your morning toast with this luscious Fig Orange Jam, a sweet and tangy spread that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
2
sandwiches10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
- 1 lb fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the figs, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, and 1 tbsp orange zest. Stir well to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
- After 30 minutes, add 1 tbsp lemon juice and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your liking. To test, place a small amount on a cold plate; if it gels, it’s ready.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
The magic of this jam lies in the balance of sweet figs and bright citrus, creating a spread that’s both rich and refreshing. Perfect for elevating your breakfast or gifting to a food-loving friend.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend the mixture briefly with an immersion blender before adding the lemon juice.
Rhubarb Strawberry Jam
There’s nothing quite like the sweet-tart combination of rhubarb and strawberry in a homemade jam, perfect for spreading on your morning toast or gifting to a friend.
2
cups15
minutes30
minutesIngredients
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb (about 3 stalks)
- 2 cups hulled and chopped strawberries
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the rhubarb, strawberries, and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar. Let sit for 1 hour to draw out the juices.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 20 minutes until the fruit is soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, stirring to combine. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, or until the jam reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
The vibrant color and balance of sweet and tart flavors make this jam a standout, with the vanilla adding a subtle depth that elevates it beyond the ordinary.
Tip: For a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture before adding the lemon juice and vanilla.
Grapefruit Rosemary Jam
Brighten up your morning toast with this Grapefruit Rosemary Jam, a delightful blend of citrusy sweetness and herbal aroma that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
4
servings15
minutes45
minutesIngredients
- 3 large grapefruits (about 4 cups of segments and juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Peel the grapefruits, removing as much of the white pith as possible, and segment them over a bowl to catch the juice. You should have about 4 cups of segments and juice combined.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the grapefruit segments and juice, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tbsp of fresh rosemary, and 1 tbsp of lemon juice. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
The unique combination of grapefruit’s tangy brightness with the earthy depth of rosemary makes this jam a standout, perfect for elevating your breakfast or gifting to a foodie friend.
Tip: For a smoother jam, pulse the cooked mixture a few times with an immersion blender before jarring, leaving some chunks for texture.
Mango Chili Jam
Spice up your breakfast toast or cheese platter with this sweet and fiery Mango Chili Jam, a vibrant condiment that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
1
jar10
minutes30
minutesIngredients
- 2 cups diced ripe mango (about 2 large mangoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the diced mango, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp red chili flakes, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until the jam thickens and reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean jar. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
The magic of this jam lies in the perfect balance between the mango’s natural sweetness and the chili’s heat, creating a versatile condiment that elevates both sweet and savory dishes.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend the mixture with an immersion blender before cooling.
Pineapple Mint Jam
Brighten up your breakfast toast or cheese platter with this vibrant Pineapple Mint Jam, a tropical twist on the classic that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
5
servings15
minutes30
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the 4 cups of finely chopped pineapple, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the pineapple to release its juices.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add the 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh mint leaves and 1/2 tsp of salt to the saucepan. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly before transferring to jars. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
The fresh mint adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet and tangy pineapple, making this jam a standout addition to your pantry. Try it swirled into yogurt for a quick and flavorful snack.
Tip: For a smoother jam, pulse the pineapple in a food processor a few times before cooking.
Kiwi Lime Jam
Brighten up your mornings with this vibrant Kiwi Lime Jam, a sweet and tangy spread that’s as delightful on toast as it is swirled into yogurt.
2
portions35
minutes25
minutesIngredients
- 4 cups peeled and diced kiwis (about 10 medium kiwis)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the diced kiwis, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tbsp lime zest. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to macerate.
- After macerating, bring the kiwi mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, continuing to stir occasionally, until the jam thickens and reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
- Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars. Seal and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
The zestiness of lime cuts through the sweetness of the kiwis, creating a jam that’s perfectly balanced and bursting with tropical flavors.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend half of the cooked mixture before adding the vanilla extract.
Tomato Basil Jam
Transform your summer tomatoes into a sweet and savory spread with this easy Tomato Basil Jam recipe—perfect for elevating your breakfast toast or cheese board.
2
pounds15
minutes50
minutesIngredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring frequently, for about 45 minutes or until the mixture has thickened to a jam-like consistency.
- Stir in 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to jars or containers. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
This Tomato Basil Jam stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness from the sugar, tang from the vinegar, and a fresh herbal note from the basil, making it a versatile condiment for any meal.
Tip: For a smoother jam, blend the mixture with an immersion blender before adding the basil.
Carrot Cake Jam
Transform your morning toast with this uniquely spiced Carrot Cake Jam, blending the cozy flavors of carrot cake into a spreadable delight.
2
jars15
minutes11
minutesIngredients
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (1.75 oz) package powdered pectin
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the finely grated carrots, crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, add the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Continue to boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the powdered pectin, stirring vigorously to prevent clumping. Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the jam thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to sterilized jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
The magic of this jam lies in its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, capturing the essence of carrot cake in every spoonful. Ideal for elevating your breakfast or gifting to fellow food lovers.
Tip: For a smoother texture, pulse the jam in a food processor before jarring.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring these 18 delicious low sugar jam recipes that prove healthy can still mean flavorful and fun! Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the joy of healthier jam options. Happy cooking!



