Homemade Christmas Jam

The Perfect Holiday Gift! Christmas jam is a delightful homemade treat, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season. This festive jam combines frozen strawberries, tart cranberries, fresh orange zest, and warm spices for a sweet-tart flavor that tastes just like the holidays.

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen strawberries, thawed
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered pectin

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jars:
   • Sterilize 10 (8-ounce) canning jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes or using a dishwasher.
2. Chop the Fruit:
   • Use a food processor to pulse the strawberries and cranberries into small pieces. Do not purée; small chunks are ideal.
3. Cook the Jam:
   • In a large Dutch oven, combine the chopped fruit, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and sugar.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
   • Let it boil for 1 minute, then stir in the pectin.
   • Continue boiling for exactly 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
4. Fill the Jars:
   • Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam.
   • Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
   • Wipe the rims of the jars, secure the lids, and tighten the bands.
5. Process the Jars:
   • Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.
   • Remove the jars and let them cool at room temperature for 12 hours.
6. Check the Seals:
   • Press the center of each lid; if it does not pop, the jar is sealed.
   • Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within 3 weeks.

Storage Tips

• Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 8 months.
• Refrigerate opened jars and consume within 3 weeks.

Variations

• No Spices: Skip the cinnamon, cloves, and allspice for a pure fruit flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice for extra brightness.
• Berry Mix: Replace some strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different berry blend.

Christmas Jam

A festive homemade jam bursting with the flavors of strawberries, cranberries, orange zest, and warm spices—perfect for gifting or enjoying during the holidays.

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Resting Time: 12 hours
Total Time: 13 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 40 oz frozen unsweetened strawberries, thawed (or 2 ½ quarts fresh, hulled)

• 1 lb fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed

• Zest from 2 oranges (about 2 tbsp)

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ¼ tsp allspice

• 4 lbs granulated sugar

• 2 pouches (3 oz each) liquid fruit pectin

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: Coarsely chop strawberries and cranberries in a food processor. Do not puree—some fruit chunks should remain.

2. Cook the Jam: Transfer the fruit to a large Dutch oven. Add orange zest, spices, and sugar. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally. Boil for exactly 1 minute.

3. Add Pectin: Remove from heat, stir in pectin, and return to a rolling boil. Boil for exactly 1 more minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

4. Jar the Jam: Let cool for 5 minutes, then skim off foam. Ladle hot jam into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and secure lids.

5. Water Bath Processing: Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove and let stand for 12 hours.

6. Check Seals & Store: If properly sealed, store in a cool, dark place for up to 8 months. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips for Gifting

• Decorate jars with gingham ribbons, sprigs of greenery, or holiday-themed labels.

• Pair with biscuits, bread, or a charcuterie board for a thoughtful gift.

Nutrition (Per Tablespoon)

• Calories: 47 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Sugar: 12g

• Vitamin C: 5mg