Merry Christmas Jam
The holidays are all about warm flavors, sweet treats, and heartfelt moments. One way to bring that holiday cheer into your kitchen is by whipping up a batch of homemade Merry Christmas Jam! This festive jam is packed with the flavors of cranberries, strawberries, and orange, mixed with warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. It’s not only delicious on toast or scones but also makes a fantastic holiday gift. Plus, you can pair it with cheese or use it as a filling for baked goods!
- Prep Time: 1hour
- Cook Time: 1hour
- Total Time: 2hours
- Yield: 3jars
Ingredients
2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen
4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp grated orange zest
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin
Instructions
Prepare the fruit: In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries and cranberries. Add the orange juice and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture softens, about 10 minutes.
Add the pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Add sugar and spices: Gradually add the sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add the grated orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Return to a full rolling boil and boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
Skim off any foam and ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims, place lids on jars, and screw on rings until finger-tight.
Process in a water bath: Place jars in a boiling water bath and process for 10 minutes. Remove jars and let cool completely. Check seals after 24 hours.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as a pinch of allspice or ginger for a twist on the traditional flavors.
- Sugar Alternatives: If you’re looking to reduce sugar, try using honey or agave syrup. However, these may change the consistency slightly, so add them gradually and taste as you go.
- Testing Consistency: If you’re unsure whether your jam is thick enough, try the “plate test.” Place a small plate in the freezer, then spoon a bit of jam onto the cold plate. Let it sit for a minute, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready! If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes and test again.
- Labeling & Gifting: For an extra personal touch, create custom labels with festive designs. Use ribbon or twine to wrap around the jar lid, adding a bit of holiday cheer.
- Using as a Glaze: This jam can double as a glaze for meats like ham or turkey. Brush it on during the last 20 minutes of roasting for a sweet and tangy holiday touch.
Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/merry-christmas-jam/