Skip to Content

7 Raspberry Jam Substitutes to Save Your Breakfast and Baking

Running out of raspberry jam doesn’t have to mean disaster for your morning toast or afternoon baking session.

You’re in the middle of making thumbprint cookies or spreading jam on a freshly baked scone, and as you reach for the jar of raspberry jam, you realize it’s empty.

That sweet-tart flavor you were counting on is missing. Before you scrap the recipe, take a breath. Raspberry jam’s unique taste and texture can be replicated with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Raspberry jam, with its vibrant color and balance of sweetness and tartness, is a breakfast and baking staple.

But whether you’re out of jam, avoiding store-bought options, or just experimenting, these substitutes will deliver the same delicious results.

From fresh fruit to creative twists, here’s how to keep your recipes on track—no last-minute store runs required.


7 Easy Substitutes for Raspberry Jam

Raspberry jam’s charm lies in its sweet-tart flavor and smooth texture. These substitutes mimic its taste and consistency while adding their own flair. Perfect for spreading, baking, or even glazing, here’s how to pivot without missing a beat:


1. Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: The Natural Option

Fresh or frozen raspberries are the closest match to raspberry jam. Simmer 1 cup raspberries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until thickened.

This substitute works beautifully in recipes that call for jam. I once used this homemade raspberry sauce in thumbprint cookies, and the result was just as good as store-bought jam. For extra smoothness, strain out the seeds.

Pro tip: Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
If you’re exploring alternatives, you may also enjoy reading about the best raspberry substitutes.


2. Strawberry Jam: The Sweet Swap

Strawberry jam is a great substitute for raspberry jam, as it has a similar sweetness and texture. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it lacks the tartness of raspberries.

This swap is perfect for spreading on toast or filling pastries. My friend used strawberry jam in a last-minute batch of scones, and the result was delicious. For extra tartness, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Fun twist: Mix strawberry jam with a bit of orange zest for a citrusy kick.
For more berry-based alternatives, check out these strawberry jam substitutes.


3. Blackberry Jam: The Tart Alternative

Blackberry jam has a similar tartness to raspberry jam, making it a great substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s slightly more intense in flavor.

This substitute works well in recipes like thumbprint cookies or glazes. I used blackberry jam in a cheesecake swirl, and the tangy flavor was a hit. For extra sweetness, mix it with a bit of honey.

Pro tip: Strain out the seeds for a smoother texture.
If you’re curious about other tart alternatives, explore these blackberry jam substitutes.


4. Apricot Preserves: The Mild & Sweet Option

Apricot preserves are milder and sweeter than raspberry jam, but they work well as a substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it lacks the tartness of raspberries.

This swap is perfect for glazing pastries or filling cakes. My cousin used apricot preserves in a fruit tart, and the sweet flavor was a hit. For extra tartness, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Watch out: Apricot preserves can be very sweet, so adjust the sugar in your recipe.
For more mild and sweet alternatives, check out these apricot preserves substitutes.


5. Cranberry Sauce: The Tangy Twist

Cranberry sauce brings a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that works well as a raspberry jam substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s more tart, so you may need to adjust the sweetness.

This substitute shines in recipes like thumbprint cookies or glazes. My neighbor used cranberry sauce in a last-minute batch of muffins, and the tangy flavor was a hit. For extra sweetness, mix it with a bit of honey.

Fun twist: Add a pinch of orange zest for a citrusy kick.
If you’re exploring tangy alternatives, you might enjoy these cranberry sauce substitutes.


6. Blueberry Jam: The Berry Swap

Blueberry jam has a similar sweetness and texture to raspberry jam, making it a great substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s slightly less tart.

This swap is perfect for spreading on toast or filling pastries. My brother used blueberry jam in a batch of thumbprint cookies, and the result was delicious. For extra tartness, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Pro tip: Use wild blueberry jam for a more intense flavor.
For more berry-based alternatives, explore these blueberry jam substitutes.


7. Orange Marmalade: The Citrusy Option

Orange marmalade brings a citrusy, slightly bitter flavor that works well as a raspberry jam substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s more intense, so adjust the amount.

This substitute works well in recipes like glazes or marinades. I used orange marmalade in a last-minute glaze for ham, and the citrusy flavor was a hit. For extra sweetness, mix it with a bit of honey.

Fun twist: Add a pinch of ginger for a spicy kick.
If you’re diving into citrusy alternatives, you might find these orange marmalade substitutes helpful.