If you’re anything like me, the holiday season has arrived. Christmas carols are making an regular appearance on my “favorites” playlist. And I’ve started ideating holiday gifts for everyone on my list.
As an added bonus, seasonal items are popping up in stores as we speak. And one of my all-time favorites, the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar, made its 2024 debut. Here’s what you need to know about this delicious countdown.
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What is the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar?
The Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is every breakfast lover’s dream. This beautifully designed gift features 24 petite jars of Bonne Maman’s quality spreads. Each day leading up to Christmas, you’ll unwrap seasonal flavors like Cherry with Pink Peppercorn, Pineapple with Passion Fruit and Mirabelle Plum with Linden. I’m looking forward to dressing up toast, pancakes, waffles and even ice cream with a little holiday indulgence.
KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME
KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME
Start your morning on a sweet note with the 2024 Bonne Maman Jam Advent Calendar. Enjoy 24 tiny jars with exclusive spread flavors.
Bonne Maman Advent Calendar Features
Using the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is simple. Just crack open the first window on December 1, pull out your miniature jam jar and enjoy! Make this your morning ritual every day leading up to Christmas. (If you want even more surprises, it pairs beautifully with a coffee Advent calendar!)
As an added bonus, this year’s calendar features a cozy Christmas train scene, with artwork highlighting kids playing, reindeer frolicking and a village welcoming the holiday season. The roughly 12-inch by 12-inch box is perfect for displaying at your coffee bar, above the fridge or anywhere else that could use a little Christmas cheer.
Katie Bandurski/Taste Recipes
How We Tested It
I was lucky enough to get my hands on the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar for some firsthand testing. Yes, my calendar arrived in August. And no, I could not wait until December to dig in. Don’t worry, though. I won’t give all the surprises away!
After unwrapping the packaging and cutting through the plastic wrap covering, I was instantly impressed with the scenic art. As a kid who spent way too much time reading every inch of the cereal box during breakfast, I appreciate the great detail. And that’s just on the paper sleeve! Once you take the sleeve off, you’re greeted by more art and a set of hinged doors that open to the calendar itself.
Once open, like most of the best Advent calendars, it’s a true test of self-control. I opened the first box to reveal a delicious fruit spread and a cheerful note. The door, while made of cardboard, was sturdy. I could easily pry it open, but there’s no need to worry about spoiled surprises with this calendar. And, if you’re careful, you can preserve the beautiful artwork. The perforations ensure each door opens cleanly.
In the name of journalism, I did end up opening every window—and can confirm all of the flavors are well-packed and delicious. There was nary a broken jar or repeat flavor. I love that this Advent calendar (just like a boozy one!) is designed with adults in mind. While some flavors are kid-friendly, others are likely a bit too adventurous for budding tastes. So, while the little ones are digging into their chocolates every December morning, the rest of the family can get in on the fun, too.
Plus, after the holiday rush, I now have 24 petite jam jars to fill with spices, sewing notions, plant saplings or even candle wax. The crafting options are endless!
Katie Bandurski/Taste Recipes
Pros
- All the jams are delicious, as to be expected
- No repeat flavors—all unique spreads
- Fun and cute packaging, great for display
- Great for breakfast and sweets lovers alike
Cons
- If you don’t reuse the jars, there’s a lot of waste
- A lot of sugar, best enjoyed in moderation
- Not all flavors are kid-friendly
Why You Should Trust Us
Katie Bandurski/Taste Recipes
I’ve been writing for Taste Recipes since 2018. In my tenure, I’ve become a holiday expert specializing in gifts, Christmas trees and Advent calendars. I’ve tested hundreds of products to recommend the very best gear for making merry. I know how important the holiday season can be, and it’s my mission to help our readers cultivate meaningful moments. You’ll find my expertise in our Balsam Hill flip tree review, Harry & David analysis and multiple gift guides.
Sean Tirman, Content Updates Editor at Taste Recipes, updated and contributed research to this piece. Sean has written shopping guides since 2016 and is a former associate editor at Gear Patrol.
FAQ
Where is Bonne Maman made?
As the name implies, Bonne Maman jams, spreads and curds are made in France.
What is in the Bonne Maman Advent calendar?
We won’t give all the surprises away, but this year’s calendar is jam-packed with plenty of exciting flavors. You can look forward to: apple-quince with honey, lemon with elderflower, mixed berry, rhubarb-strawberry and wild blueberry with maple syrup—among many others. Each day of the Advent calendar is unique, meaning there are no duplicates!
What should you do with Bonne Maman Advent calendar jars?
Katie Bandurski/Taste Recipes
The options are as endless as your creativity! These tiny vessels are perfect for upcycles, craft projects and storage. Here are just a few ideas:
- Store sewing notions, seeds and other tiny odds ‘n ends
- Fill with water and propagate plant cuttings
- Create a spice rack
- Pour in candle wax and wicks for DIY tealights
- Place small treats inside for a Valentine’s Day, Easter or Halloween countdown
- Serve salad dressings and sauces on the side (or use the lid and pack in a lunch!)
- Decorate and use as Christmas tree ornaments
What Other Reviewers Had to Say
“This is the second time I’ve ordered this set for my grandma,” says verified reviewer Leslie H. in her five-star review. “She raved about it and brought it up again this year, so I ordered it again for Christmas.”
“The order came quickly and the box was in perfect condition,” says five-star reviewer A.G. “The jars are tiny and can make approx 4 slices of toast. I am not disappointed with the size because it is a sample of 12 different flavors. I had this set at Christmas time and I was excited to see it still offered. I enjoyed the selection of flavors. I would order again.”
“I order these for my mom and she loves to have these surprises,” says MM in their five-star review. “She uses her tea biscuits and reports in on the flavors. Love this brand and love the little containers and use them for lunch salad dressings or other storage ideas. This company never disappoints.”
Final Verdict
All around, the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is a winner. The packaging is gorgeous (not a single detail was overlooked) and nostalgic, while the jams inside are as varied as they are delicious. While some of the flavors aren’t great for kids, that’s fine, as this is more geared toward adults anyhow. Furthermore, the tiny jars the jams come in can make great DIY project starters, although they can be a bit wasteful for anyone not interested in reusing them. Still, this unique take on a Christmastime staple makes for a great gift that any breakfast food lover will adore.
Where to Buy the Bonne Maman 2024 Advent Calendar
KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME
KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME
Start your morning on a sweet note with the 2024 Bonne Maman Jam Advent Calendar. Enjoy 24 tiny jars with exclusive spread flavors.
The Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is sold on Amazon and the brand’s website. While a bit on the pricey side, the quality and attention to detail make it one of the most value-packed options on the market. Act fast, though. This calendar has a history of selling out before you can say “sugarplum.”