Christmas Jam Recipe – A Festive Homemade TreatChristmas Jam is a delightful way to bring holiday cheer to your table or share it in a jar with loved ones.Bursting with the tartness of cranberries, the sweetness of strawberries, and warm holiday spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, this vibrant jam tastes just like Christmas morning.Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or gifting it as a homemade treat, Christmas Jam is an easy and festive addition to your holiday traditions.Ingredients for Christmas Jam2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and halved2 cups sugar1 cup unsweetened apple juiceZest and juice of 1 medium orange1 teaspoon ground cinnamon½ teaspoon ground cloves½ teaspoon ground nutmeg1 (3 oz) pouch liquid fruit pectinInstructionsStart by placing the cranberries, strawberries, apple juice, orange zest, and orange juice into a large saucepan.Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the fruit softens. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down the fruit to your preferred consistency.Stir in the sugar and spices and bring the mixture back to a boil. Let it cook for several minutes.then stir in the liquid pectin and boil hard for one minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and ladle into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top.Wipe the rims clean, seal, and process in a water bath if preserving long-term, or let cool and refrigerate for immediate use.How to MakeThe key to making a successful Christmas Jam is to strike a balance between sweetness and tartness while infusing it with holiday spice.Begin by simmering the fruits and juice together until tender, then mash or blend the mixture until smooth or chunky, depending on your preference.Adding the sugar and warming spices gives the jam its festive character. A quick boil after adding the liquid pectin ensures the jam sets properly, leaving you with a spreadable and flavorful preserve.VariationsYou can substitute raspberries or blackberries for the strawberries to add a different flavor profile. Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ginger for a unique twist.If you prefer a lower sugar version, look for low-sugar pectin and adjust the sweetener to taste. For a smoother jam, blend the mixture thoroughly before adding the pectin.TipsUse fresh citrus zest for the brightest flavor, and don’t skip the pectin—it’s essential for the jam to set properly.Taste the mixture before adding the pectin to adjust the sugar or spice levels if needed. If you’re gifting the jam.
