Raspberry Jam

This homemade Raspberry Jam bursts with tart-sweet flavor and is one of the easiest ways to preserve the taste of ripe raspberries. With no pectin and just a few ingredients, it’s a small-batch jam that’s bold, bright, and deeply satisfying. Whether spread on toast or folded into desserts, it’s a pantry must-have for berry lovers.

Raspberry jam in a jar with fresh raspberries.
Clock symbol indicating preparation, baking, and chilling times

Prep – 5 minutes
Cook – 25 minutes

2½ cups (600 ml)
Ingredients
  • 4 cups (500g) fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
  • Add raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and zest to a medium saucepan.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
  • Simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens.
  • Lightly mash the berries with a fork or potato masher if desired.
  • Remove from heat when the jam coats the back of a spoon. Stir in vanilla (optional).
  • Let cool slightly, then pour into clean jars.
  • Cool completely, seal, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh or frozen raspberries — if using frozen, thaw and drain before cooking.
  • For a seedless jam, press through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking and before final thickening.
  • Don’t skip the lemon juice—it helps the jam set and balances the sweetness.
  • Jam thickens further as it cools; use the chilled plate test to check doneness.
  • Store in sterilized jars or refrigerate for short-term use.
  • Spread on toast, muffins, or pancakes for a fruity breakfast boost.
  • Swirl into Greek yogurt, vanilla pudding, or oatmeal.
  • Drizzle warm over cheesecake, pavlova, or ice cream.

Related Recipes

  • Strawberry Jam – Pair it with raspberry jam for a colorful preserve set or use together in layered desserts.
  • Coconut Mango Popsicles – Add a swirl of raspberry jam before freezing for a striking tropical-berry fusion.
  • Vegan Lemon Olive Oil Cake – Raspberry jam makes a lovely topping or filling, enhancing the tangy citrus flavor.