This Christmas Jam Recipe Will Make Your Holidays Unforgettable!
Isn’t it tricky finding that perfect holiday treat? We get tired of the same cookies and pies every year.
Do you feel the same way?
Well, we’ve got something amazing for you!
Our Christmas jam recipe is just the thing to add a sparkle to your festivities. Let’s make some magic together!
Why This Christmas Jam Is So Special
We adore this jam because it brings together all the flavors we love during the holidays.
It’s sweet, a bit tart, and filled with warm spices.
Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for sharing.
You can spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or give it as a heartfelt gift. Everyone will love it.
Christmas Jam Ingredients and What They Bring
Our jam is made with fresh cranberries and strawberries, which combine to create a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors.
We add a diced apple to help thicken the jam naturally and introduce a gentle sweetness.
The zest and juice of an orange bring a fresh citrus note that brightens up the jam.
Sugar sweetens the mixture and helps it set properly, while ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and a cozy holiday aroma.
Grated fresh ginger gives the jam a little zing that makes it unique.
Liquid fruit pectin ensures the jam sets perfectly, and a bit of water helps everything cook evenly without sticking.
Ingredient Alternatives and Tips
If you can’t find some ingredients, don’t worry.
Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones, and you can substitute strawberries with raspberries or cherries.
Any type of apple will do, or even a pear if you prefer.
If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger is fine—just use a bit less.
Liquid pectin can be replaced with powdered pectin; just follow the instructions on the package.
Equipment You’ll Need
Before we start, make sure you have a large pot or saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, a wooden spoon, a grater or zester, a knife and cutting board, a masher or immersion blender, sterilized jars with lids, a ladle and funnel, and a water bath canner or large pot for processing the jars.
How To Make Our Christmas Jam Recipe
Let’s make this delicious Christmas jam recipe together.
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
First, wash all your fruits carefully. Slice the strawberries into small pieces. Peel and dice the apple. Zest the orange, then squeeze out the juice. Grate the fresh ginger.
Step 2: Cook the Fruits
Place the cranberries, strawberries, apple, orange zest, orange juice, grated ginger, and water into your large pot. Stir everything together and cook over medium heat until the fruits become soft, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3: Mash or Blend the Mixture
Use a masher or immersion blender to mash the fruits to your desired consistency. You can make it smooth or leave some chunks, depending on how you like it.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Spices
Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Keep stirring until all the sugar dissolves completely. This may take a few minutes, but it’s worth it.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This means it keeps boiling even when you stir it.
Step 6: Add the Pectin
Quickly stir in the liquid fruit pectin. Keep stirring and let it boil hard for one minute. Be careful, it’s very hot.
Step 7: Test the Jam
To see if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done. If not, boil for another minute and test again.
Step 8: Prepare the Jars
While the jam is cooking, make sure your jars are clean and sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Step 9: Fill the Jars
Use a ladle and funnel to carefully fill the jars with hot jam, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims with a clean cloth.
Step 10: Seal the Jars
Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands tightly. Be careful—the jars are hot.
Step 11: Process the Jars
Put the jars into a water bath canner or a large pot filled with boiling water. The water should cover the jars by at least one inch. Boil for 10 minutes to seal them properly.
Step 12: Cool and Check the Seals
Carefully remove the jars from the water and place them on a towel. Let them cool without moving them for 12 to 24 hours. You’ll hear a popping sound as they seal. Check the lids to make sure they are sealed properly.
There’s nothing like Simple Moist Chocolate Cake to satisfy your sweet tooth, but if you’re in the mood for something to spread your jam on, try our Quick Dinner Rolls Recipe. Freshly baked rolls and homemade jam are a match made in heaven.
Do I Have to Can This Christmas Jam?
No, you don’t have to can this jam if you plan to enjoy it soon!
If you’re making a small batch and expect to use it within a few weeks, you can simply store the jam in clean, airtight containers in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh and delicious for about three to four weeks when refrigerated.
However, if you want to keep the jam for a longer period or gift it to friends and family over the holidays, canning is a great option.
Canning preserves the jam by sealing it in sterilized jars, allowing you to store it at room temperature for up to a year.
This way, you can savor the taste of the holidays long after they’ve passed.
Make Canning Easy with the Right Tools
Canning might seem a bit daunting, but with the right equipment, it’s a breeze. Having a reliable canning kit ensures the process is safe, efficient, and enjoyable. The proper tools help you seal jars correctly, prevent contamination, and give you confidence in your homemade preserves.
We highly recommend the Premium Canning Kit by La Cuisine de Camille. This comprehensive kit includes everything you need to start canning like a pro:
Investing in a quality canning kit not only makes the process smoother but also enhances your overall cooking experience. It’s perfect for this jam recipe and any future canning projects you might explore.
Simply Cooking Recipes Homemade Christmas Jam Recipe
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Festive Christmas Jam Recipe with a Hint of Ginger
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 jars (8 oz each) 1x
Description
A delightful blend of seasonal fruits and spices, this Christmas Jam captures the essence of the holidays in a jar. The addition of ginger adds a warm, zesty twist that sets it apart from traditional recipes. Perfect for gifting or spreading joy on your morning toast!
Equipment
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or potato masher
- Sterilized canning jars with lids (8-ounce size)
- Water bath canner or large stockpot
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or grater
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- Zest and juice of 1 large orange
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid fruit pectin
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit Base
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, strawberries, and diced apple.
- Add the orange zest, orange juice, and grated ginger.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of water to prevent sticking.
- Stir the mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil.
- Cook Until Fruits Soften
- Reduce heat to medium and let the fruits simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir occasionally until the cranberries pop and the fruits are tender.
- Blend the Mixture
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Use an immersion blender or potato masher to achieve your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
- Add Sugar and Spices
- Return the saucepan to medium heat.
- Stir in 4 cups of granulated sugar until fully dissolved.
- Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil.
- Incorporate the Pectin
- Stir in the liquid fruit pectin quickly and return to a full boil.
- Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Test for Doneness
- Perform a gel test by placing a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate.
- Allow it to cool for a minute, then push it with your finger.
- If it wrinkles slightly, the jam is ready. If not, boil for an additional minute and retest.
- Prepare for Canning
- Skim off any foam from the surface of the jam.
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
- Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
- Process the Jars
- Place the filled jars into a water bath canner with boiling water.
- Ensure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch.
- Process the jars for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
- Cool and Store
- Carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel-lined surface.
- Let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
- Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid—if it doesn’t pop back, the seal is good.
- Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Notes
- Original Twist: The addition of fresh grated ginger gives this jam a warm, zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the fruits and the warmth of the spices. This subtle zing sets it apart from traditional Christmas jam recipes, adding a layer of complexity that delights the palate.
- Ginger Benefits: Not only does ginger add flavor, but it also brings health benefits like aiding digestion and boosting immunity—perfect for the holiday season.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar to 3 cups. Keep in mind that this may affect the jam’s set, so consider using a low-sugar pectin.
- Alternative Fruits: Feel free to substitute raspberries for strawberries or add blueberries for a mixed berry version.
- Spice Variation: For an extra festive flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of allspice.
- No Pectin? If you don’t have pectin on hand, no worries! Simply add an extra diced apple to the recipe—the natural pectin in apples helps the jam set. Cook the jam a bit longer, about 10-15 minutes more, until it thickens to your liking. To test if it’s ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate, let it cool, and if it wrinkles when you push it, your jam is good to go.
Enjoy the Warmth of the Holidays
There’s something magical about crafting your own jam, especially one that encapsulates the spirit of Christmas. This jam isn’t just a spread; it’s a celebration of the season’s best flavors. Whether you’re slathering it on a warm scone or gifting a jar to a loved one, it’s sure to bring joy and warmth to the holiday festivities.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop, Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Protein: 0 g
Nutritional Insights
Here’s detailed information about what’s in each serving of jam.
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (about 20 grams)
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Total Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugars: 12 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Vitamin C: Provides about 2% of daily value
This jam is low in fat and sodium but contains sugars from both fruits and added sugar. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Tips for Making the Best Jam
We want your jam to turn out great!
Using fresh fruits will give you the best flavor, but frozen fruits are a good alternative.
If you love cinnamon or nutmeg, feel free to add a little more to suit your taste.
Testing the jam a few times ensures it sets just right. Remember to be careful when handling hot jam and jars.
Labeling your jars with the date is helpful, so you know how long they’ve been stored.
Start your day with our Banana Pancakes topped with a generous spoonful of Christmas jam. It’s a breakfast that will make your mornings merry and bright.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to enjoy this jam.
Spread it on toast, bagels, or English muffins for a delightful breakfast.
Mix it into yogurt or oatmeal for added flavor.
Use it as a filling for cakes or cookies.
Serve it with a cheese platter; it pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses. You can even glaze meats like ham or chicken for a sweet and savory dish.
Pair your jam with Easy Oatmeal Cookie Recipe for a delightful snack. The wholesome goodness of oatmeal cookies complements the fruity sweetness of the jam.
How to Store and Preserve Your Jam
Proper storage keeps your jam fresh and safe to eat.
Unopened jars can be stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry for up to one year. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and use within one month.
If you didn’t process the jars in a water bath, you can freeze the jam for up to six months using freezer-safe containers.
Variations and Substitutions
You can change up the recipe to suit your tastes.
Adding a pinch of cloves or allspice can add extra warmth.
Try including raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
For an adult version, stir in a tablespoon of brandy or rum after cooking.
If you’d like to use a sugar alternative, honey or maple syrup can be substituted, but you may need to adjust the pectin.
What If I Don’t Have Pectin at All?
No pectin? No problem! You can still make a delightful Christmas jam without it. Pectin is a natural thickener that helps jam set, but it’s not the only way to achieve that perfect consistency. Here’s how you can make your jam without pectin:
Rely on Natural Pectin in Fruits
Fruits like apples and cranberries are naturally high in pectin. By adjusting the recipe slightly, you can utilize this natural pectin to set your jam.
- Increase the Apples: Add an extra diced apple to boost the natural pectin content.
- Include Lemon Juice: Squeeze in the juice of one lemon. The acidity helps extract pectin from the fruits during cooking.
Cook the Jam Longer
Cooking the jam a bit longer allows the natural pectin to work its magic.
- Simmer Slowly: After adding all ingredients except the sugar, simmer the fruit mixture until it’s very soft.
- Mash or Blend: Break down the fruit to release more pectin.
- Add Sugar and Cook: Stir in the sugar and continue cooking. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook until it thickens. This might take 20 to 30 minutes.
- Test for Doneness: Use the cold plate test—place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate, let it cool, and push it with your finger. If it wrinkles slightly, it’s ready.
Adjust Sugar Levels Carefully
Sugar aids in the gelling process and acts as a preservative.
- Don’t Reduce Sugar Too Much: Keeping the sugar at around 4 cups helps achieve a good set and extends the jam’s shelf life.
- Use Granulated Sugar: It dissolves evenly and contributes to the texture.
Alternative Thickening Methods
If you want to avoid pectin but still ensure a good set, consider these options:
- Add Chia Seeds: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds after cooking. They absorb liquid and thicken the jam naturally.
- Use Cornstarch: Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Add this to the jam during the last few minutes of cooking. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture.
Tips for Pectin-Free Jam
- Patience Is Key: Without added pectin, reaching the desired thickness takes longer.
- Watch the Heat: Cook over medium heat to prevent burning the sugars.
- Sterilize Properly: If canning, ensure your jars and lids are thoroughly sterilized to keep the jam safe for longer storage.
- Refrigerate After Opening: Pectin-free jam may not last as long once opened, so keep it refrigerated and use it within a few weeks.
Enjoy the Natural Flavor
Making jam without pectin allows the true flavors of the fruits to shine through. The texture may be slightly softer, but the taste is every bit as delightful. Embrace the traditional method and enjoy a jam that’s made with simple, natural ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, frozen fruits work well. Thaw them first and drain any extra liquid.
Using pectin helps the jam set properly. Without it, the jam will be runnier.
You can use less sugar, but the jam may not set as well. Consider using a low-sugar pectin designed for this purpose.
Processing the jars seals them properly and makes them safe for long-term storage. If you skip this step, store the jam in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks.
If the jam is too runny, you can re-cook it with more pectin. Follow the instructions on the pectin package for remaking jam.
Yes, if you don’t like ginger, you can leave it out. However, we think it adds a special touch.
This recipe makes about eight 8-ounce jars, but it can vary depending on how much you cook it down.
Making this Christmas jam is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays. It’s fun to make, and the result is delicious. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Happy holidays!
We hope you enjoy this festive jam and create sweet memories with your loved ones. Merry Christmas!
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About the Author
Ryan Yates is a culinary expert with over 20 years of experience in commercial kitchens. As a working executive chef, he has a passion for creating delicious, accessible recipes that bring joy to home cooks everywhere. Ryan believes in the magic of simple ingredients and loves sharing his knowledge to help others find happiness in cooking.