Christmas Jam Recipe
Bring the flavors of the holiday season to your table with this delicious Christmas jam recipe! This jam makes a wonderful homemade gift or festive addition to your holiday breakfast spread, a perfect blend of sweet and tart fruits, warm spices, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients You’ll Need Christmas Jam Recipe
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 medium orange (zest and juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 cup water
How to Make Christmas Jam Recipe
1. Prepare the Fruits:
- Rinse the cranberries and strawberries thoroughly.
- Hull the strawberries and chop them into smaller pieces if they are large.
2. Cook the Jam Base:
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, strawberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and water.
- Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop, the strawberries break down, and the jam thickens.
4. Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the jam to your desired texture.
5. Test for Set:
- Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready.
- If not, simmer for a few more minutes and test again.
6. Store:
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
- Seal tightly and let cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator or processing in a water bath for longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions Christmas Jam Recipe
- Spread on toast, scones, or biscuits for a festive breakfast.
- Use as a filling for holiday cookies or pastries.
- Pair with cheese and crackers for a seasonal appetizer.
Why This Recipe Works
- Festive Flavors: The combination of cranberries, strawberries, and warm spices captures the essence of Christmas.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this jam accessible for all skill levels.
- Perfect for Gifting: Package in decorative jars with ribbons for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Pro Tips for Christmas Jam
- Adjust Sweetness: Add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter jam.
- Use Fresh Citrus: Fresh orange juice and zest enhance the flavor.
- Sterilize Jars: Proper sterilization ensures the jam stays fresh and safe for longer.
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze jam in airtight containers for up to 6 months.
- Canning: Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to store at room temperature for up to a year.