There’s something magical about homemade jam bubbling away on the stove, filling the kitchen with a sweet, fruity aroma that feels both nostalgic and exciting. This Strawberry–Honey Jalapeño Jam is where classic comfort meets a playful kick of heat. It’s bright, glossy, and bursting with bold flavor—sweet strawberries softened by honey, lifted by citrus, and finished with a gentle jalapeño warmth that lingers just enough to keep things interesting.
Whether you’re spreading it over warm toast in the morning, pairing it with creamy cheese for a dinner gathering, or spooning it over grilled meats for a sweet-and-spicy glaze, this jam delivers unforgettable flavor in every bite. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients and no complicated techniques. Once you taste it, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of sweet heat
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- No pectin required
- Naturally sweetened with honey
- Versatile for sweet or savory dishes
- Beautiful vibrant color
- Beginner-friendly and foolproof
Ingredients (With Exact Amounts)
• 2 cups chopped strawberries – Provide the sweet, juicy base and vibrant color of the jam.
• 1–2 minced jalapeños – Add a customizable spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup honey – Brings natural floral sweetness and smooth depth.
• 1/4 cup sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps the jam thicken properly.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds brightness and helps preserve freshness.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Intensifies the citrus aroma and sharpens the flavor.
• Pinch of salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Step-by-Step
1. Combine the Ingredients
Place a medium saucepan on your stovetop. Add the 2 cups chopped strawberries, 1–2 minced jalapeños, 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and a pinch of salt directly into the pan.
Stir everything together thoroughly before turning on the heat. This ensures the sugar and honey begin dissolving evenly and the jalapeños are well distributed throughout the mixture. You’ll notice the strawberries start releasing a little juice almost immediately—that’s exactly what you want.
2. Cook the Mixture
Turn the heat to medium. As the mixture warms, the strawberries will begin to break down and release their natural juices. Within a few minutes, the pan will look much more liquid than when you started.
Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. You’re looking for small, steady bubbles—not a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the fruit soften evenly. This stage allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. Reduce the Heat and Simmer
Once the mixture is simmering steadily, reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Continue cooking for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
During this time, the liquid will gradually reduce and thicken. The strawberries will soften completely, and the color will deepen into a rich ruby red. Keep an eye on the texture—if it looks too thick too quickly, lower the heat slightly. If it’s still very runny after 20 minutes, let it cook a few minutes longer.
A good indicator that your jam is ready is when it coats the back of a spoon and slowly drips off rather than running freely.
4. Mash to Desired Consistency
Remove the saucepan from heat. Using a fork or potato masher, gently crush the mixture to your preferred texture.
For a chunkier jam, mash lightly so small pieces of strawberry remain intact. For a smoother consistency, mash more thoroughly. This step is entirely personal preference and one of the joys of making jam at home—you control the texture.
5. Cool and Thicken
Allow the jam to cool slightly in the saucepan. As it cools, it will naturally thicken further. This is an important step—don’t judge the final consistency while it’s still hot.
If you’d like to test it, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. You’ll see how it sets once cooled.
6. Store
Transfer the warm jam into a clean jar. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing with a lid.
Refrigerate until fully set. The jam will continue thickening as it chills. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within the week for the freshest flavor.
Variations & Customizations
Adjust the Heat Level
Use 1 minced jalapeño for mild warmth or 2 for a more noticeable kick. For even more heat, include some of the seeds when mincing.
Extra Smooth Texture
If you prefer a very smooth jam, use an immersion blender briefly after cooking, then simmer for a few additional minutes if needed.
Sweet and Savory Glaze
Brush this jam over grilled chicken or pork during the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy, sweet-spicy glaze.
Cheese Board Pairing
Serve alongside cream cheese, goat cheese, or brie for a stunning appetizer. The sweet heat contrasts beautifully with creamy textures.
Breakfast Upgrade
Swirl a spoonful into plain yogurt or drizzle over pancakes for a gourmet twist on classic morning flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is this jam?
The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you include seeds. With one jalapeño and no seeds, it’s mildly warm. With two and some seeds, it becomes noticeably spicy but still balanced by the sweetness.
Do I need pectin for this recipe?
No pectin is required. The natural pectin in strawberries combined with sugar and lemon juice helps the jam thicken as it cooks and cools.
How do I know when the jam is done?
The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and slowly drips off. It will also thicken further as it cools, so avoid overcooking.
How long does this jam last?
Stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for about one week. Always use a clean spoon to extend its freshness.
Can I freeze this jam?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container. Leave a little space at the top for expansion, and thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Nutrition & Time Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Calories | 60 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
Related Recipes
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Strawberry–Honey Jalapeño Jam
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
A sweet and spicy homemade jam bursting with fresh strawberries, honeyed depth, and a gentle jalapeño kick. Perfect for toast, cheese boards, or glazing savory dishes.
Ingredients
• 2 cups chopped strawberries
• 1–2 minced jalapeños
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Add all ingredients to a saucepan and mix well.
2. Cook over medium heat until juicy and simmering.
3. Reduce heat and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Mash to your desired consistency.
5. Let cool slightly to thicken.
6. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate until set.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
