Christmas Jam – Sweet, Spiced & Perfect for the Holidays

If Christmas had a flavor, it just might be this jam. Christmas Jam combines 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

1. 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.

2. Blend the Mixture

   • Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender) to puree until smooth.

3. Add Sugar & Spices

   • Return mixture to the pot. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and orange zest.

   • Bring to a rolling boil, stirring often.

4. Add the Pectin

   • Stir in pectin according to package directions.

   • Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

5. 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.