Creating your own Christmas Jam (Homemade Recipe) is a heartfelt way to celebrate the season. As you prepare this delightful treat, remember that each jar tells a story filled with warmth, family gatherings, and the joy of sharing. It’s so easy to make, and just 25 minutes of your time yields a vibrant, festive jam bursting with the flavors of strawberries and cranberries. Picture this: a cozy kitchen filled with the fragrant aroma of simmering fruits, the joyful chatter of loved ones, and the excitement of gift-giving. This jam isn’t just a delicious addition to your breakfast; it’s a perfect way to spread cheer and create new holiday traditions. Plus, how wonderful would it be to share a jar filled with homemade treats? Let’s get started on this sweet adventure and conquer your holiday kitchen with this mouthwatering Christmas jam!
Why This Recipe Works
Creating the perfect homemade Christmas jam is all about balance—between sweetness, tartness, and that festive spirit. This recipe harnesses the rich flavors of strawberries and cranberries, pairing them with just the right amount of sugar and pectin to create a beautifully textured jam. The short cooking time preserves the vibrant colors and flavors, making your Christmas jam not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Jam (Homemade Recipe)
This Christmas jam isn’t just about taste; it evokes the warmth of holiday gatherings and makes for charming gifts. With its festive red hue and tantalizing blend of flavors, this jam can transform a simple breakfast into a celebration. Plus, it’s remarkably easy to make, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe is perfect for those who seek to spread joy during the holiday season, one jar at a time!
Ingredients
- 1 package (40 ounces) frozen unsweetened strawberries, thawed (or 2 1/2 quarts of fresh strawberries, hulled)
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed if frozen
- 5 pounds sugar
- 2 pouches (3 ounces each) liquid fruit pectin
Preparing the Fruit Mixture
Grind the Strawberries and Cranberries
Place the thawed strawberries and cranberries in a food processor. Pulse until the fruits are finely ground but avoid pureeing them. This texture will enhance the jam’s consistency.
Sweeten the Fruit
Transfer the ground fruit mixture to a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot with tall sides. Gradually stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved. The sugar will enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit and create a beautiful jam.
Boil the Mixture
Bring the fruit and sugar mixture to a boil over high heat. Allow it to boil for 1 minute until bubbling vigorously. This step activates the pectin and sets the jam.
Adding the Pectin
Incorporate Liquid Fruit Pectin
Remove the boiling mixture from heat and stir in the liquid fruit pectin. It’s essential to stir vigorously to incorporate the pectin evenly. Then, allow the mixture to boil again for another minute.
Skim the Foam
After boiling, let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes. Skim off any foam or bubbles that form on the surface; this ensures a clear jam.
Jarring Your Christmas Jam
Prepare Your Jars
Next, carefully pour the jam into half-pint jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. This space is crucial for heat expansion. Remember to remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars.
Seal and Process the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal. Cover each jar with a lid and process in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes.
Cooling Down
Once processed, remove the jars from the canner and place them on a clean towel or cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before refrigerating.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this delicious Christmas jam spread over warm biscuits, on toast, or as a topping for holiday desserts like panna cotta and cheesecakes. Pair it with savory cheese platters for a delightful contrast.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Make sure to follow the boiling times precisely for proper jam consistency.
- Check your jars for any cracks or chips to avoid sealing issues.
Variations
- Substitute mixed berries for strawberries for a different flavor profile.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming twist.
- Experiment with different pectin brands, as they may yield varied results.
Storage Tips
Store the Christmas jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and use it within 2-3 weeks. Unopened jars can last for up to a year when stored properly.
Pairing Ideas
- Serve with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies during holiday baking.
- Add a dollop atop yogurt or oatmeal for a festive breakfast.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, just ensure they are properly washed and hulled.
2. How do I know when my jam is set?
The jam should be thick enough to coat a spoon without running off too quickly. The boiling time indicated in the recipe usually achieves this.
3. What if my jam is too runny?
If too runny, you can reprocess it with additional pectin after boiling again to thicken.
4. How long does this jam last?
When canned correctly, the Christmas jam can last for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2-3 weeks.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure to use a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume.
Homemade Christmas jam is not just a gift; it’s a heartfelt token of holiday cheer that can be enjoyed in various ways. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of Christmas. Whether shared with friends and family or enjoyed at your breakfast table, this recipe is bound to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Enjoy the warmth and joy of this festive jam!
Print
Christmas Jam
This Christmas jam blends the sweetness of strawberries and the tartness of cranberries, making it a perfect festive treat for breakfast or gifts. Ready in just 25 minutes, it captures the spirit of the holidays.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 half-pint jars 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package (40 ounces) frozen unsweetened strawberries, thawed (or 2 1/2 quarts of fresh strawberries, hulled)
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed if frozen
- 5 pounds sugar
- 2 pouches (3 ounces each) liquid fruit pectin
Instructions
- Pulse thawed strawberries and cranberries in a food processor until finely ground.
- Transfer the fruit mixture to a pot, stir in sugar until dissolved.
- Boil the mixture for 1 minute, then add liquid fruit pectin and boil for another minute.
- Skim off foam after boiling, then pour into jars with headspace.
- Seal jars and process in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Cool completely before refrigerating.
Last Step:
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Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Follow boiling times precisely for proper jam consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 0
- Fat: 0
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 0
- Cholesterol: 0
