Christmas Jam Recipe 🎄🍓

The holiday season brings with it the comforting aroma of baked goods, warm drinks, and delightful homemade preserves. Among these festive treats, Christmas Jam stands out as a colorful and flavorful way to celebrate. Bursting with berries, citrus, and a hint of holiday spice, this jam is a jar full of Christmas spirit.

Perfect for gifting or enjoying with family, this jam pairs beautifully with toast, scones, biscuits, or even as a glaze for roasted meats. Its ruby-red color and sweet-tart flavor make it a cheerful addition to your holiday table.

What makes Christmas Jam truly special is how simple it is to prepare at home. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a festive preserve that captures the essence of the season in every spoonful.

Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: About 8 half-pint jars (approx. 64 servings, 2 tbsp each)

Ingredients for Christmas Jam

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)

• 2 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed)

• 4 cups granulated sugar

• 1 packet fruit pectin (1.75 oz)

• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp grated orange zest

How to Make Christmas Jam

1. Prepare the fruit – In a food processor, pulse strawberries and cranberries until finely chopped (but not puréed).

2. Cook the fruit – In a large saucepan, combine the chopped fruit, orange juice, and zest. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

3. Add pectin – Stir in the pectin and return the mixture to a rolling boil.

4. Add sugar & spices – Carefully stir in the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Continue stirring until sugar dissolves completely.

5. Boil to set – Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil again and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

6. Test & skim – Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Test jam consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; it should thicken slightly.

7. Jar & seal – Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

8. Cool & store – Let jars cool completely. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate after opening.

Notes

• For a smoother jam, blend the fruit longer before cooking.

• Adjust spices to taste – more cinnamon for warmth, or extra orange zest for brightness.

• If you prefer a lower-sugar option, use low-sugar pectin and adjust sweetness.

• This jam makes an excellent homemade holiday gift.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen strawberries and cranberries work well; just thaw and drain before using.

2. How long does Christmas Jam last?
Unopened jars can last up to 12 months in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.

3. Can I skip the canning process?
Yes, you can store the jam in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 months or freeze for up to 6 months.

4. What can I serve it with?
Toast, biscuits, scones, pancakes, or as a filling for pastries. It also pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or brie.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tbsp serving)

Disclaimer

Enjoy Christmas Jam in moderation as it is a sweet preserve. People with allergies to strawberries, cranberries, or citrus should avoid this recipe. Always check ingredient labels (especially pectin brands) for allergens before preparing.