Artificial Food Coloring Free Mixed Berry Jam with Vanilla
Store-bought jams are notorious for sneaking in synthetic dyes to make the color look more vivid and uniform — but real berries are already stunning on their own. This homemade version gets every drop of its deep ruby-purple hue straight from strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, with absolutely nothing artificial added. Honey and fresh lemon juice bring the sweetness and brightness, while vanilla powder rounds everything out with a warm, floral depth you just don't find in a grocery store jar. A touch of Ceylon cinnamon is optional, but it adds a subtle spice that makes the whole thing feel a little more special. The slow simmer does all the work — no pectin, no shortcuts, just fruit breaking down into something thick, glossy, and intensely flavored. Mash it smooth or leave it chunky depending on your mood, then spoon it over toast, yogurt, or anything else that deserves a little upgrade. Once you taste jam made this way, the neon-bright stuff on the shelf is going to be a hard sell.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
16 servings
- 3 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries), fresh or frozen
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp vanilla powder
- ¼ tsp ceylon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the berries, honey, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir to coat the berries, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to release their juices and the mixture starts to bubble, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Use a potato masher or fork to crush the berries to your preferred texture — mash thoroughly for a smooth jam or leave some chunks for a more rustic result.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!