Merry Christmas Jam: A Festive Delight for the Holidays

Introduction:

There’s something about the holiday season that makes every flavor feel a little more magical—whether it’s the smell of fresh-baked cookies or the taste of a warm mug of cider. And for me, one of the best ways to bring that holiday cheer into the kitchen is by making something that’s not only delicious but also captures the colors and flavors of the season. That’s exactly what this Merry Christmas Jam does!

This jam combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of strawberries, all beautifully balanced with citrus and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. The result? A jam that tastes like Christmas in a jar. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, topping your holiday desserts, or even giving as homemade gifts wrapped in pretty jars. Every time I make this, it fills the house with the unmistakable scent of Christmas—bright, fruity, and full of warmth.

Plus, the vibrant red color of the jam makes it an excellent addition to any holiday breakfast or dessert table. It’s the kind of treat that adds a little sparkle to your day, no matter when you enjoy it. Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or trying it for the first time, this recipe is so easy to follow and yields a jam that’s sure to make everyone smile.

So let’s get started! Here’s how to make your very own Merry Christmas Jam.

Merry Christmas Jam Recipe

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

Directions:

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.

Additional Content

Cooking Tips and Possible Substitutions

Making homemade jam is a fun and rewarding process, but it can sometimes feel tricky if you’re not familiar with the steps. Here are a few tips to help ensure your Merry Christmas Jam turns out perfectly every time:

Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: This recipe works with both fresh and frozen cranberries. Frozen cranberries are often a bit easier to find during the winter months and can be a good backup if fresh berries are out of season.
Pectin Alternatives: If you can’t find fruit pectin at your local store, you can use a different kind of pectin, such as liquid pectin, but be sure to follow the package directions for correct use.
Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference for sweetness, you can reduce the sugar a little or add more. However, keep in mind that the sugar also helps with the preservation process, so don’t cut back too drastically.
Spice Level: If you’re not a huge fan of cinnamon and cloves, you can adjust the amounts or leave them out entirely. You could even experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.

Serving Ideas

This jam is so versatile, and it’s not just for toast! Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

On Toast: The classic! Spread it generously on buttered toast for a sweet, tangy treat.
As a Glaze: Use the jam as a glaze for roasted meats, like chicken or ham, especially during the holidays.
In Desserts: Stir it into yogurt, spoon it over a cheesecake, or drizzle it on top of vanilla ice cream. It’s like adding a little holiday magic to any dessert.
With Cheese: Pair it with a soft cheese like brie or cream cheese for a savory-sweet appetizer.
Holiday Gift: Fill cute little jars with the jam, tie them with a ribbon, and you’ve got an easy homemade gift that’s as delicious as it is thoughtful.

Storage and Freezing Tips

One of the best things about this jam is that it keeps really well! If you’re canning the jam, it can be stored at room temperature for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jar in the fridge, where it will last for 3-4 weeks.

If you want to freeze the jam for later use, simply allow it to cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe jars. Leave about half an inch of space at the top for expansion. The jam will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months—perfect for enjoying a taste of Christmas in the middle of summer!

Short FAQ

Can I make this jam without pectin?
You can make a version without pectin, but the jam will have a looser consistency. You could try using natural pectin from apples or citrus, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and methods accordingly.
How do I know if my jam has set properly?
After processing the jars, check the seals after 24 hours. If the center of the lid pops up when you press it, the jar hasn’t sealed correctly. You can either reprocess it or store it in the fridge and use it quickly.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is great with strawberries and cranberries, you can experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even a mix of fruit. Keep in mind that different fruits might require slight adjustments to the cooking time or sugar levels.
Do I need to sterilize my jars?
Yes, sterilizing your jars is essential to ensure the jam stays safe and lasts longer. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before filling them with jam.