Christmas Jam Recipe – A Festive Homemade Treat
Christmas Jam is a delightful way to bring holiday cheer to your table or share it in a jar with loved ones.
Bursting with the tartness of cranberries, the sweetness of strawberries, and warm holiday spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, this vibrant jam tastes just like Christmas morning.
Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or gifting it as a homemade treat, Christmas Jam is an easy and festive addition to your holiday traditions.
Ingredients for Christmas Jam
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and halved
2 cups sugar
1 cup unsweetened apple juice
Zest and juice of 1 medium orange
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 (3 oz) pouch liquid fruit pectin
Instructions
Start by placing the cranberries, strawberries, apple juice, orange zest, and orange juice into a large saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the fruit softens. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down the fruit to your preferred consistency.
Stir in the sugar and spices and bring the mixture back to a boil. Let it cook for several minutes.
then stir in the liquid pectin and boil hard for one minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and ladle into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top.
Wipe the rims clean, seal, and process in a water bath if preserving long-term, or let cool and refrigerate for immediate use.
How to Make
The key to making a successful Christmas Jam is to strike a balance between sweetness and tartness while infusing it with holiday spice.
Begin by simmering the fruits and juice together until tender, then mash or blend the mixture until smooth or chunky, depending on your preference.
Adding the sugar and warming spices gives the jam its festive character. A quick boil after adding the liquid pectin ensures the jam sets properly, leaving you with a spreadable and flavorful preserve.
Variations
You can substitute raspberries or blackberries for the strawberries to add a different flavor profile. Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ginger for a unique twist.
If you prefer a lower sugar version, look for low-sugar pectin and adjust the sweetener to taste. For a smoother jam, blend the mixture thoroughly before adding the pectin.
Tips
Use fresh citrus zest for the brightest flavor, and don’t skip the pectin—it’s essential for the jam to set properly.
Taste the mixture before adding the pectin to adjust the sugar or spice levels if needed. If you’re gifting the jam.
dress up the jars with festive fabric or ribbon. Always follow proper canning techniques if storing the jam for more than a few weeks.
Conclusion
Christmas Jam is a cozy, flavorful spread that captures the essence of the holidays in every bite.
It’s simple to make, versatile to enjoy, and perfect for gifting to friends and family. Whether you’re new to jam-making or a seasoned canner, this festive recipe is sure to become a beloved holiday tradition.
