As the festive season approaches, the kitchen becomes a canvas for creating delightful moments that linger long after the holidays have passed. I vividly remember the first time I whipped up a batch of this Easy Christmas Jam; the aroma of spiced strawberries and tart cranberries instantly filled my home with warmth and cheer. In just 20 minutes, I transformed simple ingredients into jars of sweet seasonal bliss—exactly what I needed to embrace that holiday spirit.
Perfect for slathering on toast or as a topping for your favorite desserts, this jam is more than just a condiment; it’s a way to spread joy. Whether you’re surprising friends with homemade gifts or simply indulging in a cozy breakfast, this recipe effortlessly adds a touch of festive magic to every meal. Join me in creating a batch that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a smile to your loved ones—because homemade gifts are truly the best gifts of all!
Why is this Easy Christmas Jam Recipe special?
Festive Flavors: The blend of spiced strawberries and cranberries creates a delightful holiday taste that warms your heart.
Quick and Easy: Prepare this homemade jam in just 20 minutes—perfect for last-minute gifting!
Versatile Uses: Whether you spread it on toast or use it as a dessert topping, this jam is truly an all-rounder.
Beautiful Gift Idea: Packaged in jars and adorned with festive labels, it makes an impressive homemade gift.
Packed with Cheer: Sharing this sweet treat is a wonderful way to spread joy during the holidays!
Easy Christmas Jam Ingredients
For the Jam
• Cranberries – Tartness and natural pectin source; you can use fresh or frozen, just thaw if frozen.
• Strawberries – Adds sweetness and body; opt for fresh or frozen, thawed strawberries for the best flavor.
• Orange (zest and sections) – Enhances citrus flavor and balances sweetness; remember to peel and chop sections before adding.
• Ground Cinnamon – A warm spice that elevates the holiday flavor profile.
• Ground Cloves – Infuses warmth and complexity into your jam.
• Allspice – Contributes depth to the delightful spice blend.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and preserves the jam; experiment with sugar substitutes for a lower-sugar option.
• Powdered Fruit Pectin – Essential for thickening the jam to the perfect spreadable consistency.
• Water – Helps cook down the fruits and activates the pectin.
• Butter (optional) – Reduces foaming during cooking for a smoother finish.
Enjoy crafting your Easy Christmas Jam—it’s the perfect blend of tradition and flavor!
How to Make Easy Christmas Jam
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Prepare jars: Wash and sterilize 4 pint jars or 6 half-pint jars for canning. This step is crucial to ensure your jam stays fresh and safe to eat!
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Zest and chop: Zest one orange using a microplane and set the zest aside. Then, peel and chop the orange sections into small pieces to add a refreshing citrus flavor.
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Chop the fruits: In a food processor, coarsely chop cranberries first. Then add strawberries, orange sections, zest, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. Pulse until everything is finely chopped, blending the flavors beautifully.
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Combine in pot: Transfer the fruit mixture to a large pot, adding water and powdered fruit pectin. Stir in the optional butter to minimize foaming as it cooks. Bring to a rolling boil while stirring continuously.
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Add sugar: Once boiling, gradually stir in the granulated sugar and return to a rolling boil for 1 minute. This step is vital for achieving the right consistency and sweetness. Remove from heat afterward.
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Skim and jar: Skim off any foam that forms on top, then ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
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Process jars: Process the jars in a water-bath canner for about 10 minutes to seal them properly. Afterward, allow them to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.
Optional: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top of the jam before sealing the jars!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Christmas Jam preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can chop your fruits—cranberries and strawberries—up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Prepare your orange zest and sections ahead, too; just remember to keep everything well-sealed to prevent browning. When it’s time to whip up your jam, simply combine the prepped fruits with the other ingredients in your pot and follow the cooking instructions as usual. Your jam will turn out just as delicious and festive, ready to spread joy with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Easy Christmas Jam
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Texture Matters: Ensure cranberries are coarsely chopped, not pureed. This preserves the delightful texture in your Easy Christmas Jam.
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Fresh is Best: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. They enhance the flavor of the jam and make it truly homemade.
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Creative Gifting: Label your jars creatively and consider adding a festive ribbon. Personalized touches make for extraordinary homemade gifts!
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Storage Tips: For long-term storage, can your jam properly. If you skip canning, refrigerate it and consume within a few weeks to enjoy its freshness.
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Pectin Know-How: Remember, cranberries naturally contain pectin, which helps your jam set. If you’re unsure about using additional pectin, feel confident in the fruit’s natural properties!
Easy Christmas Jam Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Easy Christmas Jam by exploring these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Berry Blend: Substitute cranberries with raspberries for a unique tart profile that brightens up the traditional flavors. The vibrant color will pop in your jars!
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Vanilla Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract to deepen the flavor and bring a cozy warmth to your jam. It’s an unexpected touch that enhances sweetness wonderfully.
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Spice It Up: Try experimenting with nutmeg or cardamom alongside your existing spices for a personalized flair. Each spice brings its own story and warmth to the holiday spirit.
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate lemon or lime zest with your orange for an added citrus zing. The brightness will add a fresh and zesty layer to your jam.
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Heat it Up: For a fun kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños. The balance of sweet and spicy creates an unforgettable flavor experience!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in some finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, after cooking the jam for a delightful crunch. This adds both texture and a lovely surprise in every bite!
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Chia Seed Delight: For a healthier twist, incorporate chia seeds to make the jam even thicker while adding a nutritional boost. It’s a great way to infuse fun texture!
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Herbal Infusion: Chef’s secret: add a little fresh rosemary or thyme while the jam cooks for a sophisticated herbal note. It’s a lovely way to elevate traditional flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Christmas Jam
Room Temperature: Store sealed jars of your Easy Christmas Jam in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: Once opened, refrigerate your jam and consume it within 1 month. Keeping it chilled will help preserve its vibrant taste.
Freezer: For long-lasting storage, freeze jam in airtight containers for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge before use for best results.
Reheating: If your jam thickens too much after freezing, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.
What to Serve with Easy Christmas Jam?
As holidays approach, elevate your meals with delightful pairings that complement the joyous flavors of this festive jam.
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Fluffy Pancakes: These fluffy delights soak up the fruity goodness perfectly, making every bite a celebration of seasonal flavors. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch.
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Creamy Yogurt: A swirl of this jam in Greek yogurt creates a luscious breakfast or snack packed with protein and festive flavor. Top with granola for crunch and protein!
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Cheese Board: The sweet and spicy notes of the jam pair beautifully with creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, making it the star of your holiday cheese board. Provide crackers for a delightful crunch!
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Toasted Bagels: Spread on warm bagels, this jam transforms your breakfast into a cozy holiday treat. Whether it’s plain or everything bagels, the combination is simply divine!
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Homemade Ice Cream: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert, infusing it with seasonal sweetness. The chilled treat becomes a luxurious, festive indulgence!
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Savory Roasted Meats: Use as a glaze for roasted turkey or ham—its fruitiness will elevate traditional holiday flavors, creating an unforgettable main dish.
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Fresh Scones: Serve alongside warm scones for an afternoon tea experience. The combination of buttery scones and sweet, spiced jam is pure comfort.
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Mulled Wine: Pair with a glass of warm mulled wine to enhance the cozy vibes. The spices in both will harmonize beautifully, creating a festive atmosphere.
Explore these pairings to make your holiday gatherings even more special with your Easy Christmas Jam!
Easy Christmas Jam Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cranberries for my jam?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for bright red, plump berries that feel firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or appear wrinkled, as these may be past their prime. Fresh cranberries provide a tart flavor and natural pectin, essential for a good jam.
What’s the best way to store my Easy Christmas Jam?
For long-lasting freshness, store sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry where they can last up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate your jam and aim to consume it within a month for the best flavor experience. If sealed tightly and stored appropriately, your festive treat will be perfect for special moments.
Can I freeze my Easy Christmas Jam?
Yes, you can! To freeze your jam, transfer it to airtight containers, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Your jam can be frozen for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If it thickens too much after freezing, gently warm it over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.
What should I do if my jam doesn’t thicken properly?
Very! If you find that your Easy Christmas Jam hasn’t thickened as expected, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. First, ensure that you added the correct amount of powdered fruit pectin. If it still seems too runny after cooling, pour the jam back into a pot, bring it to a boil, and add additional pectin according to the package instructions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes and recheck the consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! This Christmas jam contains common allergens like strawberries and oranges. It’s important to check for allergies before sharing. If preparing it for a gift, label the ingredients, especially if guests have sensitivities. You can easily modify the recipe by using sugar substitutes for those who are watching their sugar intake.
Easy Christmas Jam Recipe: Spiced Strawberries & Cranberries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and sterilize 4 pint jars or 6 half-pint jars for canning.
- Zest one orange and set the zest aside. Peel and chop the orange sections.
- Coarsely chop cranberries in a food processor, then add strawberries, orange sections, zest, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Transfer the fruit mixture to a large pot, adding water and powdered fruit pectin. Stir in butter if using. Bring to a rolling boil while stirring continuously.
- Once boiling, gradually stir in the granulated sugar and return to a rolling boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Skim off foam, then ladle hot jam into prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Process jars in a water-bath canner for about 10 minutes to seal properly. Allow to cool completely before storing.