Homemade Christmas Jam is one of those timeless recipes that instantly fills your kitchen with warmth, comfort, and the unmistakable spirit of the holidays. With its vibrant ruby-red color, sweet and tangy flavor, and gentle notes of holiday spices, this jam truly captures Christmas in a jar. Made with strawberries and cranberries, it is perfect for spreading on toast, serving at breakfast, pairing with cheese, or gifting to loved ones during the festive season.
Unlike store-bought jams, this homemade version tastes fresher, brighter, and far more flavorful. It is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and requires only a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you prepare it for your own family or package it as a thoughtful holiday gift, Christmas Jam is a recipe that never fails to impress.
Why You Will Love This Christmas Jam Recipe
This Christmas Jam recipe stands out because of its perfectly balanced flavor. Strawberries bring natural sweetness and a smooth texture, while cranberries add a refreshing tartness that keeps the jam from becoming overly sweet. The addition of warm spices such as cinnamon and cloves gives the jam a cozy, festive character that feels perfect for winter mornings.
Ingredients for Homemade Christmas Jam
To make this festive jam, you only need a few simple and accessible ingredients. Using high-quality fruit will ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries, washed and sorted
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Granulated sugar to sweeten and preserve the jam
- Liquid fruit pectin for proper setting
- Ground cinnamon for warmth and depth
- Ground cloves for classic holiday aroma
- Orange juice or orange zest (optional) for citrus brightness
Each ingredient plays an important role. Sugar enhances flavor and helps preserve the jam, while pectin ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency that sets beautifully as it cools.
How to Make Christmas Jam Step by Step
Begin by preparing the fruit. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and remove any damaged berries. Wash the strawberries, remove the stems, and slice them into small pieces. If you are using frozen fruit, allow it to thaw slightly before cooking.
Place the prepared fruit into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Add a small amount of water to prevent sticking and burning. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit begins to soften and release its juices. As the cranberries cook, they will naturally burst, creating a vibrant red base.
Once the fruit has softened, add the sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. The mixture will become glossy and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a comforting holiday aroma. Continue cooking while stirring frequently to avoid sticking.
When the mixture reaches a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, add the liquid fruit pectin. Stir continuously and boil for one additional minute. This step is essential for achieving the correct jam consistency.
Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam if necessary. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small amount of headspace. Seal the jars according to your storage method.
Tips for Making the Best Christmas Jam
Always use ripe, flavorful fruit. Poor-quality fruit will affect both taste and texture.
Do not reduce the sugar too much, as it is crucial for proper setting and preservation. If you prefer a less sweet jam, balance it with extra citrus juice rather than reducing sugar drastically.
For a smoother texture, you may use an immersion blender to lightly puree the fruit before adding the pectin.
Orange zest adds a refreshing brightness and enhances the holiday flavor profile.
Properly sterilizing jars and lids is essential to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
How to Serve Christmas Jam
Christmas Jam can be enjoyed in countless ways. Spread it on toast, croissants, scones, or biscuits for a festive breakfast. Stir it into oatmeal or yogurt for a seasonal twist.
It also pairs beautifully with cheese. Serve it alongside cream cheese, brie, or sharp cheddar for an elegant appetizer. Christmas Jam can even be used as a glaze for roasted ham or turkey, adding a sweet and tangy finish to holiday meals.
Christmas Jam as a Homemade Gift
Homemade Christmas Jam makes a thoughtful and heartfelt holiday gift. Pour it into small jars, add festive labels, and tie them with ribbon or twine. Including a handwritten note or recipe card adds a personal touch that store-bought gifts cannot match.
Pairing the jam with homemade bread, crackers, or cookies creates a beautiful and memorable gift basket that friends and family will truly appreciate.
Storage and Shelf Life
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, Christmas Jam can last up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within two to three weeks.
If you choose not to process the jars in a water bath, store them in the refrigerator and consume within three weeks. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.
Final Thoughts
Christmas Jam is more than just a spread—it is a celebration of the season. With its rich flavor, festive aroma, and beautiful color, it brings warmth and joy to every meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this jam is perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special holiday moments.
Once you try this homemade Christmas Jam, it is sure to become a treasured tradition in your kitchen, year after year.