Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe

If you’re looking for a way to bring a little holiday magic into your kitchen, this Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that fills your home with warmth and joy, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire. The combination of cranberries and strawberries, paired with aromatic spices, creates a delightful flavor that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, who wouldn’t love a jar of homemade jam as a thoughtful gift?

This jam isn’t just for the holidays! Its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to busy weeknights or brunches throughout the year. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over yogurt, or use it as a glaze on meats – the possibilities are endless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have delicious jam in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and spiced flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time to save yourself some stress during the holiday rush!
• Gifts from the heart: Homemade jam makes for thoughtful gifts that show how much you care.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Spiced Christmas Jam is a breeze! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making this recipe not only tasty but also comforting. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Jam

• 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin (powdered)
• 5 cups granulated sugar

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your jam. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add some citrus zest: Try incorporating lemon or grapefruit zest for an extra zing.
• Mix in other fruits: Substitute blueberries or raspberries for part of the strawberries for a unique twist.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar by one cup without sacrificing flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick!

How to Make Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Fruits

In a large pot, combine the cranberries, strawberries, chopped apple, orange zest and juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Cook this mixture over medium heat for 10–15 minutes until the fruit begins to break down slightly. This step is crucial as it helps release all those wonderful flavors that make this jam so special.

Step 2: Add Pectin and Sugar

Stir in the fruit pectin until it’s well combined. Bring everything to a boil again. Once boiling, add in all that sugar—yes, all five cups! Stir until dissolved and return to a rolling boil for 1-2 minutes. This process thickens your jam beautifully.

Step 3: Jar It Up

Ladle your hot jam into sterilized jars while it’s still warm. Leave some space at the top before sealing them tightly. You can either process these jars in a water bath for long-term storage or simply refrigerate them if you’re planning to use them soon.

And there you have it! Your very own Spiced Christmas Jam ready to spread joy wherever it’s served. Enjoy every delightful spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe

Making jam can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to guide you along the way!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and strawberries will result in a more vibrant flavor and texture in your jam. If you’re using frozen fruit, make sure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess water.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of sugar can be modified based on your preference. If you like a less sweet jam, start with 4 cups of sugar and adjust from there after tasting.
• Don’t skip the pectin: Fruit pectin is essential for achieving that perfect jam consistency. It helps thicken the mixture and gives it that delightful spreadable quality.
• Sterilize your jars properly: To ensure your jam lasts longer, sterilize your jars by boiling them in water or running them through a dishwasher cycle without detergent. This prevents any unwanted bacteria from spoiling your homemade treat.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom can give your jam an extra layer of warmth and complexity.

How to Serve Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe

This Spiced Christmas Jam is not just delicious; it also makes for an eye-catching addition to any holiday table! Whether you’re serving it at brunch or giving it as a gift, here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing twist that complements the spices beautifully.
• Orange zest: A sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top not only enhances the flavor but also provides a lovely visual contrast against the rich red jam.

Side Dishes

• Warm, crusty bread: Serve slices of freshly baked bread or baguette alongside your jam for spreading. The warm bread pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart flavors.
• Cheese platter: Create a cheese board featuring soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese. The creaminess balances well with the spiced notes of the jam, making it an elegant appetizer.
• Breakfast pancakes or waffles: Drizzle this jam over fluffy pancakes or waffles for a festive breakfast treat that guests will love. It adds a seasonal flair that’s hard to resist!
• Roasted meats: Use this jam as a glaze for roasted chicken or turkey. Its sweet and spicy profile enhances savory dishes beautifully, making every bite memorable.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll impress family and friends alike during this joyous season! Enjoy every moment spent creating and sharing this delightful Spiced Christmas Jam.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spiced Christmas Jam is not only a festive delight but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it to enjoy throughout the holiday season or even gift it to loved ones.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the jam in sterilized jars with tight-fitting lids.
• Keep the jam refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
• Make sure to use a clean spoon each time you scoop out the jam to prevent spoilage.

Freezing

• Freeze the jam in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 6 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as the jam will expand when frozen.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating

• If you prefer your jam warm, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and avoid boiling to maintain texture.

FAQs

Have questions about making this Spiced Christmas Jam? Here are some common queries:

Can I use frozen fruit for this Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries and strawberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure they are measured out correctly and do not thaw them before cooking.

How should I adjust the sweetness in my Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe?

If you prefer a less sweet jam, feel free to reduce the sugar slightly. However, keep in mind that sugar helps with preservation and thickening.

How long does this Spiced Christmas Jam last?

When stored properly in the fridge, your delicious jam can last for up to 3 weeks. If you freeze it, it can be enjoyed for up to 6 months!

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Christmas Jam is truly special—it’s bursting with festive flavors and makes every bite feel like a warm hug! I hope you enjoy making this delightful treat as much as I do. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or giving it as a heartfelt gift, it’s sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations. Happy jamming!