The kitchen filled with warmth today as I stirred a bubbling pot of Homemade Christmas Jam, and I couldn’t help but feel the holiday magic in the air. This delightful treat blends sweet strawberries and tangy cranberries, all beautifully balanced with a hint of zesty orange and festive spices like cinnamon and cloves. Not only is this Christmas Jam a fantastic way to capture the flavors of the season, but it also makes a heartfelt gift that friends and family will cherish. With its vibrant color and chunky texture, this jam takes less than an hour to prepare, making it the perfect way to bring a homemade touch to your holiday celebrations. Are you ready to spread some cheer? Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe that will make your mornings merry and bright!

Why is Homemade Christmas Jam Special?

Festive Flavors: This Christmas Jam bursts with the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and tart cranberries, enhanced by zesty orange and warm spices. Easy to Make: You’ll love how quick and simple it is to create this jam, taking less than an hour to whip up! Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in pretty jars, it makes an ideal mindful gift for friends and family during the holidays. Versatile Use: Whether spread on toast, dolloped on biscuits, or paired with cheese on a charcuterie board, this jam is sure to impress. Embrace the holiday spirit and bring joy to your kitchen with this Christmas Jam that captures the essence of the season!

Christmas Jam Ingredients

For the Jam Base

Frozen Unsweetened Strawberries – 40 ounces acts as the main fruit base; can be substituted with 2.5 quarts of fresh strawberries if you’re feeling adventurous!
Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – 1 lb adds that delightful tartness; make sure they are thawed if using frozen.
Zest from 2 Oranges – about 2 tablespoons, to bring a bright citrus zing to your jam.

For the Spices

Ground Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon lends warmth and sweetness; don’t skip this essential spice!
Ground Cloves – ½ teaspoon offers aromatic depth, enhancing the holiday scent of your jam.
Allspice – ¼ teaspoon rounds out the flavor profile beautifully; perfect for that festive touch!

For Sweetening and Setting

Granulated Sugar – 4 lbs is necessary for sweetness and setting; avoid artificial sweeteners for best results.
Liquid Fruit Pectin – 2 pouches (3 ounces each) is crucial for thickening; don’t swap for dry pectin without adjustments.

Get ready to create an unforgettable Christmas Jam that will fill your home with holiday cheer and keep your loved ones coming back for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Christmas Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Start by coarsely chopping the frozen strawberries and thawed cranberries and transferring them into a large Dutch oven. Ideally, you’ll want to see chunky fruit pieces, so avoid pureeing them. This mixture forms the colorful base of your Homemade Christmas Jam, setting the delightful stage for the flavors to come.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Next, add the orange zest, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and allspice into the fruit mixture. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, making sure to coat all the fruit evenly. Stir well until fully combined, and place the pot over medium heat. Allow it to come to a full rolling boil, stirring occasionally, until it reaches that bubbling state—around 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Once boiling, maintain this vigorous boil for 1 minute without stirring. This step is crucial for the setting process of your Christmas Jam. You should see the mixture thickening and bubbling actively—this indicates it’s ready for the next phase. After a minute, remove the pot from heat and let it settle for a moment.

Step 4: Add the Pectin
Stir in the liquid fruit pectin, mixing thoroughly into the jam. Return the pot to the heat and bring it back to a rolling boil. Once boiling again, keep it at a boil for an additional minute, stirring constantly. This ensures the pectin activates properly, allowing your Christmas Jam to thicken beautifully.

Step 5: Cool and Skim Foam
Remove the pot from heat again and let the jam rest for about 5 minutes. During this time, you’ll notice foam may form on the surface—don’t worry! Simply skim off the foam with a spoon to achieve a cleaner finish for your jam. Now, it’s ready to be jarred up!

Step 6: Jar the Jam
Carefully ladle the hot jam into pre-warmed, sterilized half-pint jars, ensuring to leave a ¼-inch headspace at the top. The vivid color of your Homemade Christmas Jam should shine through beautifully as it’s packed into the jars, ready for sealing. Make sure to wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a proper seal.

Step 7: Seal and Process
After jar-filling, securely place the lids on the jars. Process them in a water bath at a rolling boil for 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed and safe for storage. You’ll hear a satisfying pop as the lids seal, which is music to any home cook’s ears, knowing your Christmas Jam is secure!

Step 8: Cool and Check Seals
Let the jars stand at room temperature for 12 hours post-processing, allowing them to cool completely and seal properly. After this resting period, check the seals by pressing the center of each lid; it should not pop back. If sealed correctly, your Homemade Christmas Jam is now ready for gifting or enjoying!

Christmas Jam Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your Christmas Jam with delightful twists and substitutions!

Spice Up: Add nutmeg or ginger for a cozy, seasonal flavor. Just a pinch can transform your jam into a festive dream!
Citrus Swap: Replace orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a lively citrus twist that brightens up the flavor profile.
Berry Blend: Substitute fresh blueberries or raspberries for a delightful blend with strawberries and cranberries. Each bite will burst with tangy goodness!
Sugar Alternatives: For a lower-calorie option, use a blend of honey and sugar. However, ensure proper measurements to maintain the jam’s consistency.
Chia-Packed: Incorporate chia seeds for added nutrition and texture! Just 2 tablespoons can thicken your jam beautifully while offering a health boost.
Heat It Up: If you love a kick, throw in a dash of red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños for a spicy jam that’s perfect with cream cheese on crackers.
Vanilla Infusion: Add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices in your Christmas Jam.
Different Sweeteners: Explore using maple syrup or coconut sugar as alternative sweeteners. This adds a pleasant depth of flavor while keeping it naturally sweet.

These variations allow you to make the Christmas Jam uniquely yours and are sure to impress your friends and family during the holiday season! As you create, consider serving your jam with toasted bread or on a charcuterie board for a festive touch. Happy jamming!

Expert Tips for Christmas Jam

Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements are crucial in jamming; too much or too little sugar can affect setting. Stick to the recipe for perfect Christmas Jam.
Avoid Doubling Recipe: Don’t double the batch for best results—it can lead to inconsistent setting. If you’d like to make more, consider making separate batches.
Chop, Don’t Puree: Coarsely chop your fruits instead of pureeing them. This gives the jam a delightful chunky texture and enhances the tasting experience.
Sterilize Your Jars: Ensure jars are properly sterilized for safe storage. Wash them in hot soapy water, boil them, or run them through the dishwasher before use.
Check Seals Carefully: After processing, allow jars to cool completely before checking seals. A firm lid that doesn’t pop back indicates a good seal for your Christmas Jam.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices like nutmeg or ginger to personalize your Christmas Jam. This simple twist can elevate the festive flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Christmas Jam jars are perfect for busy holiday cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the fruit mixture (frozen strawberries and cranberries with orange zest and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in a covered container. When you’re ready to turn it into jam, just cook it according to the instructions, and it will taste just as fresh and delicious. For extending freshness, the completed jam can be stored in properly sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 8 months. Just remember to check the seals after letting them cool for 12 hours, and you’ll have homemade Christmas Jam ready when you need it!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Jam

Room Temperature: Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 8 months. Ensure they are sealed properly to prevent spoilage.

Fridge: Once opened, keep your Christmas Jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to tightly seal the jar to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to a year, making it a wonderful treat for future celebrations!

Reheating: If you want to enjoy your jam warm, simply microwave a small portion or heat gently on the stove; do not boil to preserve flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Homemade Christmas Jam

The joy of sharing your Homemade Christmas Jam goes beyond just spreading it on a slice of bread; let’s explore delicious pairings that will elevate your festive feasts.

Toasted Bread: The warm, crusty texture of toasted bread perfectly complements the chunky jam, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine through.
Fluffy Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits provide a delightful contrast to the sweet-tart jam, creating a cozy breakfast or brunch option that feels like a warm hug.
Charcuterie Board: Pair your jam with a selection of creamy cheeses and savory meats on a charcuterie board. The tangy sweetness of the jam balances the richness of the cheeses, creating a harmony of flavors.
Oatmeal or Yogurt: Swirl the jam into a bowl of warm oatmeal or creamy yogurt for a festive start to the day that’s both nourishing and delightful.
Cheese Pairing: Try it with sharp cheddar or brie. The jam adds a unique twist that elevates the cheese experience, making it a standout at any holiday gathering.
Scones: Serve with freshly baked scones as a traditional tea-time treat. The combination of buttery scones and your homemade jam enhances every bite.
Sparkling Wine: For beverages, a glass of sparkling wine complements the sweetness of the jam and adds a touch of celebration to any occasion.
Ginger Tea: The warming spices in your jam pair beautifully with a cup of herbal or ginger tea, creating a soothing experience on a chilly day.

Homemade Christmas Jam Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best strawberries and cranberries for this jam?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for plump, red berries free from dark spots or bruising; these indicate freshness. For cranberries, choose firm, glossy ones. If frozen, ensure they’re properly thawed before use for the best consistency in your Christmas Jam.

What is the best way to store unopened jars of Christmas Jam?
Very! Unopened jars of your delicious Christmas Jam can be stored in a cool, dark place—like a pantry or cellar—for up to 8 months. Just make sure they’re tightly sealed, as this will help prevent spoilage and keep the jam tasting fresh and vibrant.

Can I freeze Christmas Jam, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Jam, ladle it into airtight containers, leaving about ½ inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Alternatively, you can use heavy-duty freezer bags. Seal tightly and date them; your jam can last up to a year in the freezer! When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and avoid reheating it to preserve its delightful flavors.

What should I do if my jam isn’t setting properly?
Not to worry! If your Christmas Jam doesn’t set as desired, it might be due to incorrect measurements or insufficient boiling time. To troubleshoot, reheat the jam, bringing it to a boil and stirring in a little more pectin (mixing it with water), then boil again for 1-2 minutes; this should help it thicken. You can also consult the pectin package for specific troubleshooting tips.

Is this Christmas Jam safe for pets?
Very much so! However, be cautious with sugar intake for pets, especially dogs. While small amounts of a fruit jam occasionally won’t harm them, the sugar content isn’t ideal for their health. Always consult a vet if unsure. On the other hand, it’s perfectly safe for humans—just remember to share with loved ones!

How long will my Christmas Jam last in the refrigerator after opening?
Absolutely! Once opened, your Christmas Jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. To keep it fresh longer, ensure it’s tightly sealed to lock in the delightful flavors. Enjoy it on toast, in baking, or even as a festive topping on desserts!