For easy & delicious sweet potato jam recipe, peel and mash sweet potatoes, add sugar and lemon juice, then simmer into a rich, golden sweet potato jam perfect for toast and desserts.This easy Sweet Potato Jam Recipe creates a smooth, flavorful spread.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Jam
For an easy sweet potato jam recipe, gather these essentials.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes | 1.5 lbs | Fresh, firm (purple for color) |
| Sugar | ¾ cup | Adjust to taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1 lemon | Adds brightness |
| Cinnamon (optional) | ½ tsp | For spiced flavor |
| Coconut Milk (optional) | ¼ cup | For vegan jam recipes |

Step-by-Step Instructions
To make sweet potato jam with this simple sweet potato jam recipe, just notice this point-wise format aligned with a suitable kitchen setting.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and chop 1.5 pounds of sweet potatoes (use purple sweet potatoes for vibrant color).
- Boil or roast until soft, about 15 minutes; roasting enhances flavor for a richer taste.
- Create the Puree
- Mash the cooked sweet potatoes into a smooth sweet potato puree using a fork or blender.
- Cook the Jam
- In a pot, combine the puree with ¾ cup sugar and the juice of one lemon.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 25–30 minutes until it becomes thick.
- For a faster option, microwave baked sweet potato for 8 minutes before mashing.
- Add Flavors and Preserve
- Enhance with cinnamon for an Okinawan sweet potato jam twist or coconut milk for a vegan jam recipe.
- For canning sweet potato jam, transfer the mixture into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch of headspace, then seal and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Tips and Variations
Elevate your sweet potato jam recipe with these tips and tweaks.
Flavor Variations
- Add coconut milk for a creamy, vegan purple sweet potato jam recipe.
- Try vanilla or ginger for Korean sweet potato jam flavor.
- Mix in pineapple for a unique sweet vegetable jam recipe.
Ingredient Tips
- Use roasted sweet potatoes for deeper taste.
Canning vs Refrigerator Storage
| Storage Method | Description | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canning | Safely preserve sweet potato jam using sterilized jars, ample lemon juice, and a water bath process for at least 10 minutes. | Up to 1 year | Follow safe canning sweet potato jam methods |
| Refrigerator | Store jam in clean jars for short-term use. | Up to 2 weeks | Use airtight jars; check for spoilage. |
| Freezer | Freeze jam in suitable containers for extended storage. | Up to 3 months | Leave headspace; thaw safely before use. |

Nutritional Information
A 2-tablespoon serving of this homemade sweet potato jam recipe offers ~80 calories from natural sugars, packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants for immunity and skin health, and is low-fat, cholesterol-free, and vegan-friendly.
| Nutrient | Per 2 Tbsp | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 80 | Energy from natural sugars |
| Vitamin A | 60% DV | Supports vision, immunity |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV | Boosts skin health |
| Antioxidants | High | Fights free radicals |

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Jam Recipe?
This sweet potato jam recipe is rich, creamy, and naturally sweet with a hint of freshness from lemon or lime juice. Unlike regular fruit jams, the starch in sweet potatoes gives it a smooth texture.
Add cinnamon, ginger, or vanilla for extra flavor, or use purple sweet potatoes for a colorful twist. Perfect on toast, pancakes, or even as a glaze, it stores well as a refrigerator jam or through safe canning methods.
FAQs About Sweet Potato Jam
Q1: Can I make sweet potato jam without pectin?
Yes, the starch in sweet potatoes helps it set.
Q2: Can I use purple sweet potatoes?
Yes , purple sweet potato jam is colorful and nutritious.
Q3: How long does it last?
Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks when refrigerated and about 3 months if stored in the freezer.
Q4: Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but sugar helps preserve and thicken.
Q5: How do I test if the jam is ready?
Use the plate test, if it wrinkles, it’s set.
Final Thoughts
This sweet potato jam recipe yields a flavorful, nutrient-packed homemade sweet potato jam. Ideal for toast, desserts, or creative dishes, try purple sweet potato jam for a vibrant twist. Easy and versatile, it’s perfect for jam making at home. Experiment, share your results, and savor this wholesome sweet potato spread!
