Looking for a simple, 3 ingredient cocktail that’s refreshing and perfect for spring? Then check out my gin and jam! With just herbal gin, tart lemon juice, and your favorite jam, it’s incredibly easy to make, plus you can customize it (or use up an open jar) – win win!
What is a Gin and Jam Cocktail?
A gin and jam cocktail is a fruity and refreshing mixed drink that combines gin with a spoonful of jam, and fresh lemon juice for an easy sweet and tart sip. The jam acts as both a sweetener and adds flavor, giving the cocktail a rich,fruity flavor and a little extra thickness for a smooth sip.
Of course, you can customize it with different types of jam (raspberry and strawberry are the most common choices), by adding extra sweetener, or add a bubbly twist with additional mixers like soda water or tonic.
This jam cocktail recipe is a refreshing combination that’s perfect for spring and summer in particular, and is great garnished with fresh fruit or herbs. I also love that it’s just 3 ingredients and takes minutes to prepare, so it’s ideal for entertaining, too!
Quick + Easy Recipes
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Ingredients Needed
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 Tbsp seedless raspberry jam
- ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Use your favorite gin! I have New Amsterdam, but Seagrams, Bombay Sapphire, and Empress (which adds a nice violet color) are all good choices. If you don’t like gin, you can also substitute vodka or tequila here
- Any jam flavor you like works (though I highly recommend a seedless variety or straining it). Blackberry, strawberry jam, and raspberry are my favorites, but orange marmalade (strained) or cherry is nice too!
- Fresh lemon juice is best, but you can substitute bottled if need be (it’s just not quite the same). You could also swap in lime juice instead
- If you need a little extra sweetness (I think the jam is plenty), you can add simple syrup, honey, or maple syrup to taste. Feel free to use a natural jam or sugar free option to reduce overall sweetness as well!
How to Make a Gin and Jam
- Warm the jam in the microwave for 15-20 seconds (so that it’s loose and runny)
- Add the jam to a cocktail shaker (or similar) along with the gin and lemon juice
- Dry shake for 5-10 seconds to mix in the jam, then add a handful of ice and shake again until chilled and lightly frothy, about 15-20 seconds
- Strain into your favorite lowball glass. You can serve as-is for a stronger drink, or over ice to dilute it slightly. Garnish with a slice of lemon, sprig of mint, or fresh berries if desired, and enjoy!
What to Serve With a Gin and Jam
A gin and jam cocktail pairs well with a variety of foods, including both sweet and savory flavors. Here are some of my favorite pairing options:
Savory Pairings
- Cheese and Charcuterie Board – Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, along with cured meats and crackers, complement the cocktail’s fruity and botanical notes
- Bruschetta – A light and refreshing tomato or berry-topped bruschetta balances the cocktail’s sweetness. My Peach Bruschetta is great with a peach jam drink!
- Smoked Salmon Canapés – The salty, smoky flavors contrast nicely with the jam’s fruitiness
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon – A sweet and savory combination that enhances the drink’s flavors – try my Bacon Wrapped Melon for a unique twist!
Sweet Pairings
- Berry Tarts or Scones – The cocktail’s jammy flavors are perfect alongside fruit-filled pastries. My Raspberry Orange Scones are a great option!
- Lemon Bars – The tartness of lemon pairs well with gin’s botanicals
- Dark Chocolate – Rich, slightly bitter chocolate complements the cocktail’s sweetness
- Shortbread Cookies – Buttery, crumbly cookies provide a delicious contrast to the drink’s bright flavors!
Brunch Options
- Pancakes or Waffles – Topped with berries and whipped cream, these make a great match for a jam-infused drink. Beetroot Waffles are a great color compliment if you’re serving this drink for Valentine’s or Galentine’s brunch!
- Yogurt Parfaits – Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit echo the flavors in the cocktail
- Avocado Toast – The creaminess of avocado pairs well with the gin’s herbal notes. Try my Air Fryer Avocado Toast for a simple preparation method!
Recipe FAQs
What Is the Best Thing to Mix Gin With?
Gin pairs well with a variety of mixers, depending on the flavor profile you’re looking for. Classic options include tonic water, which enhances gin’s botanicals, and club soda, which provides a lighter, less sweet alternative.
Citrus juices like lemon or lime add brightness, while ginger beer or ginger ale bring warmth and spice. For a fruitier twist, cranberry juice, elderflower tonic, or even fresh fruit purees work beautifully.
What Are the Main Ingredients in Gin?
Gin is primarily made from juniper berries, which give it its signature piney flavor. Other common botanicals include coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, cardamom, and orris root, among others.
Different gin styles, such as London Dry, Old Tom, or Contemporary gins, emphasize various botanicals to create unique flavor profiles.
Can You Make a Jam and Gin and Tonic?
Yes! A jam and gin and tonic is a fun twist on the classic G&T. To make one, stir or shake a spoonful of fruit jam (such as raspberry, strawberry, or blackberry) into the gin before adding tonic water and ice.
The jam adds a subtle sweetness and fruit-forward flavor while still maintaining the crisp and refreshing qualities of a traditional gin and tonic.
Recipe Tips For the Best Gin and Jam
- If you don’t heat up the jam, it should still work fine, but you may have to shake the drink longer to break up the more congealed fruit
- For seeded jams or ones with whole fruit chunks, I recommend straining through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth before serving, unless you want to drink seeds!
- Instead of a cocktail shaker, you can use a mason jar with lid, a salad dressing or protein shake shaker, or a blender!
Serving and Garnish Tips
- Any lowball glass works well for a gin and jam, like a rocks, whiskey, or old fashioned glass
- Garnishes are optional, but a slice of lemon or twist of lemon peel are great options. A sprig of fresh mint can add an herbal pop, or use a skewer of fresh berries to compliment the type of jam chosen (raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, etc)
- Serve a gin and jam for a number of occasions! It’s a great cocktail for both spring (like Easter) and summer, brunch (including Mother’s Day), or if you use a red jam like strawberry or raspberry, it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s, or a bridal shower too!
- Pomegranate Gin Fizz
Final Thoughts
Grab that jam jar and make a super easy 3-ingredient gin and jam for a refreshing, fruity, and herbal inspired cocktail! It’s a great sip for spring and summer occasions, from Valentine’s to Easter, Mother’s Day brunch, and everywhere in between.
It’s one of my favorite ways to polish off almost empty jam jars in a delicious way (and that way you never have to worry about what to do with just a tiny bit of jelly)! The preserves offer plenty of natural sweetness as well, though of course you can add more if needed.
With a little lemon juice and of course classic gin to balance the drink, it’s a delicious cocktail that’s proof that jam really is great to the last spoonful! Try one for your next happy hour, or other favorite occasion.
Gin and Jam (Easy 3 Ingredient Cocktail)
Equipment
- Shaker (or similar)
- Rocks glass (or similar)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp jam (such as seedless raspberry)
Instructions
- Warm the jam in the microwave for 15-20 seconds (so that it’s loose and runny)1 Tbsp jam
- Add the jam to a cocktail shaker (or similar) along with the gin and lemon juice2 ounces gin, ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
- Dry shake for 5-10 seconds to mix in the jam, then add a handful of ice and shake again until chilled and lightly frothy, about 15-20 seconds
- Strain into your favorite lowball glass. Serve as-is for a stronger drink, or over ice to dilute it
- Garnish if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use your favorite gin, or you can also substitute vodka or tequila here
- Any jam flavor you like works (I highly recommend a seedless variety). Blackberry, strawberry jam, and raspberry are common choices
- Fresh lemon juice is best, but you can substitute bottled if need be (it’s just not quite the same). You could also swap in lime juice instead
- For extra sweetness (depending on your jam and preferences), you can add simple syrup, honey, or maple syrup to taste
- If you don’t heat up the jam, you’ll want to shake the drink longer to break up the more congealed fruit (and may still get some pieces)
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, garnishes added, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
