Homemade Christmas Jam | A Festive Holiday Recipe!!!

Bright, bold, and bursting with holiday cheer—this Homemade Christmas Jam is a vibrant blend of tart cranberries, sweet strawberries, and warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Simmered to perfection with a hint of citrus and set with pectin, it’s the ultimate jar of joy for your breakfast table or gift-giving lineup. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, using it as a glaze, or tucking it into a handmade gift basket, this jam tastes like Christmas in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Jam

This isn’t just another jelly—it’s a celebration in a jar. Infused with the flavors of the season, this jam combines the zing of cranberries, the sweetness of strawberries, and the cozy warmth of holiday spices for a taste that says “festive” with every bite.

Perfect for:

• Holiday breakfasts and brunch spreads
• DIY edible gifts wrapped in ribbon and twine
• Baking, glazing meats, or elevating cheese boards
• Making memories in the kitchen with family

🍓 “I made this while listening to carols,” said one home cook. “The whole house smelled like Christmas—even the dog looked excited!”

Ingredients

For the Festive Fruit Base

• 2 cups (200g) fresh cranberries, rinsed
• 2 cups (300g) strawberries, hulled (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups (800g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice (adds brightness and helps set)

For the Warm Spice Blend

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)

For Setting the Jam

• 1 packet (1.75 oz / 50g) fruit pectin (liquid or powdered—follow package type)

✅ Optional Upgrades:

• ¼ tsp ground ginger or cardamom for extra spice
• Zest of 1 orange for fragrant citrus lift

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Fruit

• Rinse cranberries and strawberries thoroughly.
• Place in a food processor and pulse 5–6 times until finely chopped but not pureed—you want texture, not mush.

✅ Avoid over-processing; chunky fruit = rustic charm.

2. Cook the Jam Base

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot:

• Combine chopped fruit, orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
• Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.

3. Add Pectin & Sugar

• Stir in pectin and return mixture to a full rolling boil.
• Gradually add sugar, stirring constantly until fully dissolved.
• Boil hard for exactly 1 minute, stirring continuously.

✅ Set a timer—this activates the pectin for perfect gel.

4. Jar & Seal for Gifting or Storage

• Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with a spoon.
• Carefully ladle hot jam into sterilized mason jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace at the top.
• Wipe rims clean with a damp cloth.
• Place lids and bands on tightly.

For shelf-stable storage:

• Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
• Remove and let cool overnight. Check seals before storing.

For immediate use or fridge/freezer:

• Skip canning and store in airtight containers:
  • Fridge: Up to 3 weeks
  • Freezer: Up to 6 months (thaw overnight)

You Must Know

• Use real fruit —frozen works great when fresh isn’t available.
• Don’t reduce sugar —it’s essential for setting when using regular pectin.
• Tastes better after a few days! Flavors deepen and meld over time.
• Freezer-friendly —perfect for making ahead and saving seasonal magic.

Storage Tips

• Store sealed canned jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
• Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks.
• Label jars with date and contents—especially if gifting!

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on warm scones, biscuits, or toast
• Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt
• Use as a glaze for roast ham or turkey (mix with mustard!)
• Fill thumbprint cookies or layer in parfaits
• Pair with cream cheese and crackers for a holiday appetizer

✅ Leftovers? Bake into jam bars or thumbprints.

Cultural Context

Rooted in European preserves traditions and American holiday baking, this recipe celebrates how simple ingredients—fruit, sugar, spice—can become something deeply satisfying. Found at Christmas markets, creative kitchens, and gift exchanges alike, it honors the joy of sharing food made with love.

Pro Tips

• Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for gifting. Just work in batches.
• Want more texture? Reserve some chopped fruit and stir in after boiling.
• Make ahead: Freeze uncooked fruit mix with sugar for next year.
• Label your jars: People will ask for the recipe.
• Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this without pectin?
A: Yes—but it will take longer to thicken and may be runnier. Simmer 20–30 mins until desired consistency.

Q: Why did my jam not set?
A: Likely under-boiled, too little pectin, or sugar imbalance. Try reheating with extra pectin.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—naturally GF if all ingredients are verified.

Q: Can I use honey instead of sugar?
A: Not recommended—honey changes pH and may prevent proper gelling.

Q: Can I air fry leftovers?
A: No—but reheat gently in microwave (10 secs) to soften.

Allergy Information

Contains: none of the top 8 allergens (if no cross-contamination).
Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on processed pectin and juices.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 1 tbsp serving

• Calories: 50
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.

This jam doesn’t shout. It sits quietly in the jar, jewel-toned and inviting, saying everything a great treat should: “Spoon me slow. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with berries, spice, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”