Christmas Jam is a festive homemade fruit preserve bursting with the flavors of the holiday season. Made with strawberries, cranberries, warm spices, and a hint of citrus, this beautiful ruby-red jam is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, scones, and muffins. It also makes a thoughtful edible gift during the holiday season. The combination of sweet strawberries and tart cranberries creates a balanced flavor that captures the spirit of Christmas in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Jam
- Bright and festive holiday flavor
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for gift-giving
- Delicious on breakfast breads and pastries
- Beautiful color and aroma
- Can be stored for months when properly canned
Ingredients
Makes approximately 6 half-pint jars.
- 4 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, crushed
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon butter (optional, reduces foaming)
Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Potato masher or food processor
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 6 half-pint canning jars with lids and bands
- Water bath canner or large pot
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Wash the strawberries and cranberries thoroughly. Remove the stems from the strawberries. Crush the strawberries using a potato masher or pulse them briefly in a food processor. Place the cranberries in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
Combine the crushed strawberries and chopped cranberries in a large stockpot.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Add the orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, and cloves to the fruit mixture. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
The orange adds a bright citrus note that complements the berries perfectly, while the cinnamon and cloves provide the warm holiday flavor that makes this jam special.
Step 3: Add Pectin
Stir the powdered pectin into the fruit mixture. Mix thoroughly to prevent lumps.
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. A rolling boil is one that cannot be stirred down
Step 4: Add Sugar
Once the fruit mixture reaches a rolling boil, add all the sugar at once. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
If foam forms on the surface, add the optional butter and skim off any excess foam with a spoon.
Step 5: Test the Jam
After boiling for one minute, remove the pot from the heat.
To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let it sit for about 30 seconds. Push it gently with your finger. If the surface wrinkles slightly, the jam is set.
If it appears too runny, boil for another minute and test again.
Step 6: Prepare the Jars
While the jam cooks, sterilize your jars by washing them in hot soapy water and placing them in simmering water until ready to use.
Keep the jars hot until filling time.
Step 7: Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth. Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until fingertip-tight.
Step 8: Process the Jars
Place the filled jars into a boiling water bath canner.
Process for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary.
Remove the jars and place them on a towel-lined surface. Allow them to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
You should hear a popping sound as the lids seal.
Serving Ideas
Christmas Jam is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Spread on warm toast or English muffins
- Serve with homemade biscuits
- Pair with cream cheese and crackers
- Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
- Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies
- Spoon over pancakes or waffles
- Add to holiday charcuterie boards
- Glaze roasted meats such as ham or turkey
Storage
Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.
Once opened, refrigerate the jam and use within 3 to 4 weeks.
If a jar does not seal correctly after processing, store it in the refrigerator and use it first.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Fresh cranberries provide excellent texture and tartness.
- Measure ingredients accurately for proper setting.
- Stir constantly during boiling to prevent scorching.
- Avoid reducing the sugar significantly, as it affects preservation and texture.
- Label jars with the date before storing or gifting.
Variations
Spiced Christmas Jam
Add ¼ teaspoon nutmeg and a pinch of allspice for an even warmer holiday flavor.
Cherry Christmas Jam
Replace one cup of strawberries with sweet cherries for a richer fruit profile.
Vanilla Christmas Jam
Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after removing the jam from the heat.
Cranberry-Apple Christmas Jam
Substitute one cup of strawberries with finely diced apples for added texture.
