Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam

It all started with my Onion Bacon Jam. Once I made that, I couldn’t stop thinking of different ways to make bacon jam. Before I knew it, I had a whole collection of recipes, which you can find in my Bacon Jam Recipes roundup. This Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam is one of my favorites!

The raspberries add just the right amount of sweetness, while the jalapeños bring a little heat to balance the rich, smoky bacon. It all cooks down into a thick, savory-sweet jam that is just as good on burgers and sandwiches as it is served with crackers and cream cheese. If you love sweet and savory flavors together, this is definitely one to try.

What Is Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam?

Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam is my Jalapeño Bacon Jam with added raspberries. It’s a sweet and savory spread made with crispy bacon, fresh raspberries, jalapeños, onions, and a few simple ingredients cooked down into a thick, flavorful jam. It has smoky bacon flavor, a touch of sweetness, and just enough heat to make it completely irresistible.

Notes from My Kitchen

After making many bacon jam recipes, I’ve learned that simmering the raspberries just until they break down gives the best texture and flavor. Don’t rush the onion caramelization step – it adds incredible depth.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Bacon: Thick-cut or regular bacon both work well here. Just cook it until it’s nice and crispy, since it will soften a bit as it simmers in the jam.
• Onion: A yellow onion adds the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor. A white onion will work too if that’s what you have.
• Jalapeños: Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder jam, or leave some in if you want more heat.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic from a jar works in a pinch.
• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps create that rich, jam-like consistency.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The vinegar balances the sweetness and brightens all the flavors.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Maple syrup adds another layer of sweetness and pairs really well with the smoky bacon. Be sure to use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup.
• Raspberries: Fresh or frozen raspberries both work well, so use whichever is easier to find.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder adds a little extra depth without making the jam overly spicy.

FAQs

Is Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam spicy?

It has a little kick from the jalapeños, but it is not overly spicy. Removing the seeds and membranes keeps the heat milder. If you like more spice, leave some seeds in or add an extra jalapeño.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes! Frozen raspberries work just as well as fresh in this recipe. There is no need to thaw them first; they will break down as the jam simmers.

Can I make Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bacon jam is a great make-ahead recipe because the flavors continue to develop as it sits. Store it in the refrigerator and gently warm it before serving if you prefer a softer consistency.

Is it safe to can Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam?

No, this recipe is not safe for canning. Because it contains bacon, a low-acid meat, it should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer instead.

Can I make this bacon jam less sweet?

Yes! The brown sugar and maple syrup help create the jam-like texture and balance the smoky bacon and jalapeño flavors, but you can slightly reduce the sweetness if preferred. Keep in mind that changing the sugar may affect the final consistency.

What to Serve With Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam

Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam is one of those recipes that can be used in so many ways. The sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors make it a delicious addition to appetizers, sandwiches, and more.

• Burgers: Add a spoonful to your favorite burger for a sweet and savory flavor boost. It would be especially delicious on my Rodeo Burger or any grilled burger.
• Cream Cheese and Crackers: One of the easiest ways to serve bacon jam is to spoon it over cream cheese with crackers or crostini (toasted baguette). It makes a simple appetizer that always disappears quickly.
• Sandwiches: Spread it onto my crispy grilled cheese sandwich, turkey sandwiches, or pulled pork sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor.
• Charcuterie Boards: Add it to a cheese board with crackers, meats, and your favorite cheeses for a sweet and savory bite.
• Breakfast Favorites: Stir it into scrambled eggs, spread it on toast, add it to buttermilk biscuits, or use it in a breakfast sandwich for a sweet and savory way to start the day.

How to Store Raspberry Jalapeño Bacon Jam

Let the bacon jam cool completely before storing.

Refrigerator: Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It will thicken as it chills, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm it gently before serving if you’d like a softer consistency.

Freezer: Freeze the cooled bacon jam in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving.

This recipe is not safe for canning.