Christmas Jam – Sweet, Spiced & Perfect for the Holidays
If Christmas had a flavor, it just might be this jam. Christmas Jamcombines the sweetness of strawberries, the tartness of cranberries, and a hint of warm holiday spices into a spread that tastes like the season in a jar. It’s perfect on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or even as a glaze for meats and cheeses.
Best of all, this recipe makes several jars, so you can enjoy some at home and share the rest as homemade holiday gifts. Tie a ribbon around the jar, add a festive label, and you’ve got the perfect heartfelt present.
Christmas Jam Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (3 oz) package fruit pectin (powdered or liquid, per package instructions)
- ½ cup orange juice (fresh squeezed preferred)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Cook the Fruit
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, strawberries, and orange juice.
- Cook over medium heat until cranberries pop and strawberries soften, about 10 minutes.
- Blend the Mixture
- Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender) to puree until smooth.
- Add Sugar & Spices
- Return mixture to the pot. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and orange zest.
- Bring to a rolling boil, stirring often.
- Add the Pectin
- Stir in pectin according to package directions.
- Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Jar the Jam
- Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
- Wipe rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks if not canning).
Tips for Success
- Taste and adjust spices to your liking — more cinnamon for warmth, extra cloves for spice.
- Use frozen berries if fresh aren’t in season.
- For a chunkier jam, mash instead of blending.
- Always follow safe canning practices if storing long-term.
Creative Ways to Use Christmas Jam
- Spread on warm biscuits, toast, or croissants.
- Swirl into cheesecake or yogurt.
- Use as a glaze for roasted ham or turkey.
- Pair with brie or cream cheese for a festive appetizer.