Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! My Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is more than just a spread; it’s a burst of festive flavor in every jar. This recipe has become a cherished part of our family gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to breakfast tables and dessert spreads alike. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that it can easily fit into your busy weeknight routine or become a thoughtful handmade gift for loved ones.

The beauty of this jam is not only in its vibrant color but also in its harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over yogurt, or use it as a topping for desserts. Trust me, once you try making this jam, you’ll find yourself reaching for it throughout the year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious jam bubbling away on your stove.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cranberries creates a taste that everyone will love.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This jam stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute gifts.
• Versatile Usage: Use it in various ways – from breakfast spreads to dessert toppings – it adds a festive flair!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh fruit and spices, this jam is as wholesome as it is flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home or can easily find at your local grocery store. Get ready to mix up something special!

For the Jam

• 6 cups fresh or frozen strawberries (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (approximately 1/2 pound)
• 5 cups sugar (around 2 1/2 pounds)
• 2 sachets liquid fruit pectin (using 2 pouches of certo brand at 170ml each)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

One of the best parts about making Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate some orange zest for a citrusy twist that brightens up the flavor.
• Go Spicy: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected kick if you like things spicy!
• Berry Blend: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for an even more colorful jam.
• Lower Sugar Option: Substitute some sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetener option.

How to Make Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

Step 1: Prepare Your Fruit

Start by washing your strawberries and cranberries thoroughly. If you’re using frozen fruit, that’s perfectly fine! Just let them thaw before mixing. Preparing your fruits ensures they’re clean and ready to create that wonderful jam texture.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit Mixture

In a large pot, combine your strawberries and cranberries over medium heat. Stir them gently until they start releasing their juices—this usually takes about 5 minutes. It’s important because this helps bring out their natural sweetness and flavor!

Step 3: Add Sugar and Spices

Once your fruits are softened, gradually stir in the sugar along with cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Continue cooking until everything is well combined and starts boiling—about another 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it balances the tartness from the cranberries with sweetness from the sugar.

Step 4: Incorporate Pectin

Next, add in your liquid fruit pectin according to package instructions. Bring everything back to a rolling boil for another minute while stirring constantly. This will help thicken your jam beautifully!

Step 5: Fill Your Jars

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars while it’s still warm. Leave about half an inch at the top for expansion during cooling. Seal them tightly! Letting them cool at room temperature allows the flavors to meld even further.

And there you have it—your very own batch of Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam! Enjoy it right away or store it for later use; I’m sure you’ll be tempted to make more soon!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

Making your own jam is such a delightful and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to ensure your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam turns out perfectly.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also improve the texture of your jam, giving it that homemade touch we all love.
• Measure accurately: Precision is key in jam-making. Using the right amount of sugar and pectin is crucial for achieving the desired consistency, so take your time when measuring.
• Stir consistently: Stirring your jam mixture often while it cooks helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures an even mix of flavors throughout.
• Test for doneness: To check if your jam has set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready to be jarred!
• Store properly: Allow your jam to cool completely before sealing it in jars. This helps preserve its flavor and keeps it fresh for longer.

How to Serve Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

This vibrant cranberry jam can be a delightful addition to any festive spread or a cozy breakfast. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious treat!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a beautiful pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the jam.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy contrast that enhances both texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Cream cheese: Spread some cream cheese on crackers or toast, then top with the cranberry jam for an easy yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Pancakes or waffles: Drizzle this sweet jam over fluffy pancakes or waffles as a fruity topping that will make breakfast feel extra special.
• Roasted turkey or chicken: Use this cranberry jam as a sauce alongside roasted poultry; its sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with savory meats.
• Cheese platter: Serve with a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese, where the sweetness of the jam harmonizes wonderfully with rich, creamy flavors.

With these serving suggestions, your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is sure to impress everyone at your holiday table! Enjoy making memories as you savor each delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy during the busy holiday season. You can prepare it in advance, store it properly, and have a delightful spread ready whenever you need a sweet touch for your breakfast or dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the jam to cool completely before transferring it to jars.
• Use sterilized glass jars with airtight lids to store the jam.
• Keep the jam in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 3 weeks.
• Always use a clean spoon when scooping out the jam to ensure freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to keep your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam for longer, consider freezing it.
• Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and type of jam.
• The jam can be frozen for up to a year. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to use it.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen jam, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
• For quick warming, you can heat small portions in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals until warm.
• Stir well before serving to restore its smooth texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam!

Can I use frozen cranberries for Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just ensure they are thawed before using them in your recipe.

How long does Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam can last up to three weeks. If frozen, it can stay good for up to a year!

Can I adjust the sugar level in Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam?

Yes! You can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam. However, keep in mind that sugar also acts as a preservative, so this might affect shelf life.

What can I serve with Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam?

This delicious jam pairs beautifully with toast, pancakes, yogurt, or even as a filling for pastries. It’s also great on cheese platters!

Is there an alternative to liquid fruit pectin for Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam?

If you prefer not to use liquid fruit pectin, you can try using powdered pectin instead. Just follow the instructions on the package for equivalent measurements.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to create something special that adds sweetness and warmth to your holiday gatherings. Enjoy spreading this delightful treat on your favorite breakfast items or sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking and merry making!