Throwing away leftover jam? In this economy? There’s never a good reason for food waste, and that’s true about the little bit left in a jar of jam, jelly, or marmalade, too—especially if you took the time to make a batch yourself. The jar may seem almost empty, but the jam is worth using. You’ve probably shaken up a homemade salad dressing or marinade using the dregs of a jar of Dijon mustard. Those teaspoons of jam can be used in similar ways—and many more! 

The pop of sweetness you get from that small bit of jam is a way to add a huge boost of flavor to so many things, from dressings, sauces, and spreads to infused milk, coffee, and cocktails. So, before you clean and recycle your next jar, consider what other simple pantry ingredients you can add to the jar to transform it into something completely new. We have gathered a list of the 10 best ways to do just that.

How to Use Up Leftover Jam

As much as we love jam, jelly, and marmalade on toast, there are plenty of other good ways to use them. They are a complex ingredient, mixing plenty of sweetness with the tartness and natural flavors of the fruit used to make them. Not to mention, they are an ingredient that we almost always have in our refrigerator or pantry. Many of our ideas don’t even require you to transfer the jam to another bowl or container—the recipes can be mixed and enjoyed right out of the jam jar.

Cocktails

When shaken (not stirred!), jam is the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to a cocktail, especially one that leans more toward sour or bitter than sweet. There’s a perfect pairing for just about every spirit. Blackberry jam brings out the natural sweet and woody flavor of whiskey; citrus marmalade is a natural pair for more neutral spirits like vodka; red currant jelly complements the juniper-forward flavor of gin; and try a tropical fruit blend when making a rum-based drink.

Infused Seltzer

The viral jam seltzer was a TikTok sensation, and it’s a wonderfully refreshing way to make good use of the last bits of jam. Add a spoonful of two to a glass filled with ice, then pour the seltzer over the top. Plain seltzer goes with everything, but it’s fun to pair flavored seltzers with jams and marmalades that complement those flavors, just like with the cocktails.

This idea works well with other sparkling beverages, such as lemonade or ginger ale. 

Coffee

Looking to upgrade your morning coffee? Pour freshly brewed coffee directly into the jam jar and stir until dissolved. You won’t need to use any extra sugar. Believe us, you’ll be adding jam to everything just to get to the bottom of the jar for your next java jolt. 

If you find yourself with a little chocolate-hazelnut spread left over as well, consider adding it to the mix to make a mocha of sorts.

Vinaigrette

Speaking of things that can be mixed right in the jam jar, vinaigrette is a must-make. Often homemade salad dressing needs a pinch of sugar to bring out the best in the other flavors, and a touch of jam does the same thing. Add the vinegar, mustard, olive oil, salt, pepper, and other seasonings to the jam jar, seal it tight, and shake until thick and emulsified.

Barbecue Sauce

There’s usually a liberal amount of sugar in barbecue sauce—why not replace some of it with jam? The fruitiness is just the thing for rich, fatty cuts like spare ribs and pork shoulder. And the jam can even cut the spiciness of barbecue sauce, add some to the mix if you bought one that’s too hot to handle.

Marinade

Another thing that can be mixed right in the jam jar is a marinade. Simply add the ingredients and shake to combine. This is great for grilling season because the sugar in the jam will help create a slightly caramelized crust on the meat or vegetables. Tart mixtures like raspberry jam or apricot marmalade are good for fatty steaks, while mango or pineapple jellies work well with chicken and milder seafood.

Sandwich Spread

One of our favorite unexpected ways to use jam is as a spread for grilled cheese sandwiches. The sharp cheese melts into the sweet jam, giving the classic sandwich a whole new dimension of flavor. 

For other sandwich spreads, combine some jam or marmalade with mayonnaise, mustard, and a little something spicy (chili flakes or hot sauce) to make a creamy spread that will instantly upgrade even the saddest sandwich.

Overnight Oats

If you thought no-cook overnight oats were easy, try making them right in the jam jar. The leftover jam infuses the oats and milk as they soak overnight, and you don’t even have to get another dish dirty. In the morning, give the jar a quick stir, top with some fresh fruit, granola, and more jam if you are so inclined.

Flavored Milk

When regular milk gets boring, jam comes to the rescue. Pour your favorite type of milk right into the jam jar and give it a vigorous and thorough shake. Strawberry jam is our favorite for this idea because who doesn’t love homemade strawberry milk? Use it for your cereal, oatmeal, or muesli, or enjoy it by the glass. The kids will love it. 

Flavored Whipped Cream

Scrape every last bit of jam out of the jar the next time you’re making a batch of whipped cream. It will whip right up with the cream, no problem. Use it for strawberry shortcakes, chocolate mousse, trifles, and more.