Ways to Use Up Your Old Bonne Maman Jars

Madison
Aug 4
4 min read

You don’t have to be obsessed with jam to appreciate a Bonne Maman jar. Even if you’re not regularly spreading raspberry preserves onto toast, you’ve probably found yourself reaching for one in the grocery store. There’s something about that classic gingham lid and vintage-style glass that feels cozy and timeless—like breakfast in a quiet French countryside kitchen.

But once the jam is gone, what next? These jars are too beautiful to throw away, and luckily, you don’t have to. Whether you’re into DIY projects, simplifying your pantry, or just trying to reduce waste, there are plenty of ways to give these jars a second life.

Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of every last Bonne Maman jar.

1. A New Favorite Coffee Cup

It’s become second nature for many of us to use jars as glassware—and Bonne Maman jars are especially great for this. Their size is just right for your morning coffee, whether hot or iced, and the glass is thick enough to handle both. Plus, the jar shape makes them easy to hold, and there's something satisfying about seeing the layers of your cappuccino or the swirl of milk in cold brew.

If your jar still has a bit of jam left, you can actually use it to your advantage: add hot coffee, stir (or shake with the lid on), and enjoy a subtly sweet, fruit-infused coffee. It’s an easy way to add flavor without extra sugar—and it saves you the time of scrubbing out the jar right away.

2. Turn Them Into Simple Candles or Flower Vases

bonne mamam jam jars, repurpose jars — Image From: Bonne Mamam

With their faceted glass design and subtle vintage charm, Bonne Maman jars make wonderful decorative pieces. They're perfect for homemade candles—just add wax, a wick, and your favorite essential oil. If you'd rather keep it simple, fill the jar with water and drop in a floating tea light for a quick and calming touch.

They also make lovely small vases. A few trimmed flower stems or a single garden bloom can turn your kitchen table or windowsill into something special. Or, use them to plant tiny succulents for a bit of greenery indoors.

3. Shake Up a Homemade Vinaigrette

vinaigrette in glass jar, repurpose glass jars

Making your own vinaigrette is one of those small, satisfying kitchen wins. A Bonne Maman jar is just the right size to mix up a dressing—no whisk or blender needed. Add your oil, vinegar, mustard, lemon juice, herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Then screw on the lid and shake until well blended.

It’s an easy way to elevate a salad, and the jar doubles as a storage container in the fridge. You can even use the last bit of jam in the jar for a fruit-forward dressing—raspberry vinaigrette with no waste, and no extra dishes.

4. Store Dry Goods with Style

Bonne Maman jars aren’t just pretty—they’re practical, too. Use them to organize your pantry and cut back on plastic packaging. They’re ideal for holding:

Nuts and seeds
Grains, rice, and lentils
Dried beans and flours
Loose tea or coffee beans

If you like a touch of whimsy, you can also turn them into candy jars. Add your favorite sweets—jelly beans, chocolate, mints—and use them as colorful accents in the kitchen or as thoughtful gifts.

5. Use Them for Quick Pickles

Pickling is a smart way to extend the life of fresh produce, and a Bonne Maman jar is a great size for small-batch pickles. The thick glass can handle hot liquid, which makes it perfect for quick-pickling red onions, cucumbers, carrots, or radishes.

Just pour your hot vinegar mixture over the sliced vegetables, seal the jar, and let it sit. Quick pickles won’t last as long as traditional ones, but they add instant flavor to sandwiches, grain bowls, and salads.

6. Store Homemade Sauces and Condiments

If you enjoy making your own sauces—whether it’s pesto, chili oil, salsa, or a batch of homemade mayo—these jars are incredibly handy. They’re the right size for storing small amounts, and the gingham lid adds a nice touch if you’re gifting your creations to friends.

For mayo lovers, Bonne Maman jars are also the perfect container to blend it in using a stick blender. The narrow shape helps everything emulsify beautifully, with minimal mess.

7. Organize Whole Spices

Bonne Maman jars are ideal for bringing a little order to your spice cabinet, especially when it comes to whole spices like cardamom, coriander, or bay leaves. Transferring spices into clear glass jars lets you see what you have at a glance, which makes cooking easier—and a bit more inspiring.

Since whole spices tend to last longer, storing them in airtight glass helps preserve their aroma and flavor. It’s a simple upgrade that makes your kitchen feel more intentional and well-curated.

8. Keep Mini Jars for Salt, Pepper, and More

If you’ve picked up a Bonne Maman advent calendar or a mini jar gift set, you know how adorable the tiny jars are. While they’re too small for sauces or pickles, they’re perfect for storing finishing salt, crushed peppercorns, or even spice blends.

Keep one near your stovetop or on your dining table for easy seasoning, or toss one into your picnic basket or travel bag so you're never without your go-to flavors.