Christmas Jam Recipes: 5 Simple Steps to Festive Flavor

By:

Julia marin

Ah, the holiday season! It’s my absolute favorite time of year, filled with twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and the most delightful aromas wafting through the kitchen. One of my cherished traditions is making homemade jam—particularly my Christmas jam, which is bursting with the vibrant flavors of seasonal fruits and spices. There’s something magical about stirring together strawberries and cranberries, watching them transform into a luscious, ruby-red spread. I love giving jars of this jam as gifts; they’re perfect for spreading on warm toast or swirling into holiday desserts. Trust me, every time I pop open a jar, it brings back warm memories of family and festive cheer. And the best part? This recipe is so simple that anyone can whip it up, adding a personal touch to their holiday celebrations!

christmas jam recipes - detail 1

Ingredients List

To create this delightful Christmas jam, you’ll need some vibrant ingredients that capture the essence of the season. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped: Make sure to remove the green tops and chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen: If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them—just toss them straight into the pot!
  • 1 cup sugar: This will help balance the tartness of the cranberries and enhance the sweetness of the strawberries.
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that bright, zesty kick.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that’s perfect for the holidays.
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a hint of this will take your jam to the next level!
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that lovely aromatic finish that ties everything together.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to embark on a flavorful journey to create your very own Christmas jam!

How to Prepare Christmas Jam Recipes

Making this Christmas jam is not only fun, but it also fills your kitchen with the most incredible holiday aromas. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this festive delight!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. First, in a large pot, combine the hulled and chopped strawberries, cranberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until the sugar starts to dissolve.
  2. Next, place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep stirring frequently to prevent any sticking; we don’t want that lovely jam to burn!
  3. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 20 minutes. You’ll notice the fruits will start breaking down, and the mixture will thicken slightly—this is where the magic happens!
  4. Now, it’s time to add the warm spices: mix in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir well to incorporate those delightful flavors.
  5. Increase the heat again and bring it back to a boil for an additional 5 minutes. This is crucial for achieving that perfect gel consistency. Keep stirring constantly during this time!
  6. Once done, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer your hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave a little space at the top.
  7. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely at room temperature. This will help create a vacuum seal, ensuring your jam stays fresh!

As you make this jam, keep an eye on the texture; it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too runny, don’t worry! Just cook it a bit longer, checking every couple of minutes. You’re going to love how this turns out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It captures the essence of the holiday season with its vibrant flavors and spices.
  • Versatile enough to use in sandwiches, desserts, or as a topping for your favorite breakfast dishes.
  • Simple preparation process, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
  • Homemade gifts that come straight from the heart—everyone loves a jar of festive jam!
  • Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients, giving you a deliciously authentic taste.

Nutritional Information

When you indulge in this delightful Christmas jam, you’re getting more than just sweetness! Each tablespoon contains approximately 50 calories, with 12 grams of sugar and no fat or cholesterol. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season without guilt! Keep in mind, these values are estimates, so if you’re tracking your intake, it’s good to double-check based on your specific ingredients.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Christmas jam turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, using a candy thermometer is a game changer. Aim for a temperature of about 220°F (104°C) to achieve that ideal gel consistency. If you don’t have one, just do the spoon test: dip a spoon into the jam, let it cool for a moment, and then run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, you’re good to go!

Don’t hesitate to get creative with substitutions! For a different flavor profile, try swapping strawberries with raspberries or blueberries. You can also add a splash of bourbon or brandy for a festive kick. And if you want a bit more zing, a pinch of ground ginger can really elevate the spices. With these tips in hand, you’re set for jam-making success!

Variations of Christmas Jam Recipes

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this Christmas jam recipe! One of my favorites is to swap out the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries, which add a delightful burst of flavor and color. You could even create a mixed berry jam by combining all three for a vibrant medley!

For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a spicy twist that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Want to bring in some citrus? Zest from an orange or a splash of orange juice can brighten up the flavors even more.

And don’t forget about spices! A touch of allspice or clove can deepen the warmth of the jam, making it even more festive. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect holiday flavor combination!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made your delicious Christmas jam, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its flavor and freshness. Transfer the cooled jam into sterilized jars, making sure to leave about half an inch of headspace at the top. This is crucial for creating a good seal! After sealing the jars tightly, let them cool completely at room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. Properly sealed, your jam can last for about 3 to 4 weeks in the fridge.

If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the jam. Just pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy some, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat unless you prefer it warm—just grab a spoon and dig in!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen strawberries in this Christmas jam recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just toss them in directly without thawing, and they’ll break down beautifully during cooking.

How do I know if my jam has set properly?
To check for a proper set, use the spoon test: dip a spoon into the jam, let it cool slightly, and run your finger through it. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, you’re good to go!

Can I double the batch of Christmas jam?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger pot to give the jam enough space to bubble and reduce properly. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.

What can I use this jam for besides toast?
This festive jam is incredibly versatile! Use it as a filling for pastries, a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or even swirl it into your favorite holiday desserts for an extra burst of flavor.

How should I store leftover jam?
Store your Christmas jam in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, freezing it is a great option—just remember to leave space in the containers for expansion!

Print
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Christmas Jam Recipes: 5 Simple Steps to Festive Flavor


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 cups 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A delightful Christmas jam recipe that combines seasonal fruits and spices, perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine strawberries, cranberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the fruits break down.
  4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir well.
  5. Increase heat and boil for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.
  7. Seal jars and let them cool completely at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure proper gel consistency.
  • For a spicier jam, add a pinch of ground ginger.
  • Consider adding a splash of bourbon for depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 50
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: christmas jam recipes, holiday jam, fruit preserves

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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