If you’re looking to add a burst of festive flavor to your holiday table, this Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the tangy brightness of cranberries with the sweet, juicy notes of strawberries, plus a medley of warm spices, this jam perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas in every spoonful. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it alongside cream cheese, or gifting it to loved ones, this jam is pure holiday magic in a jar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe plays an important role, from providing rich color and texture to layering flavorful complexity. Though simple, these ingredients come together to create a beautifully balanced jam that tastes like Christmas itself.
- 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The tart base that gives the jam its vibrant red color and lively bite.
- 2 cups strawberries (hulled and chopped): Adds natural sweetness and a luscious, juicy texture.
- 1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and finely diced): Acts as a natural pectin source and adds subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup orange juice: Brightens the jam with citrus tang and helps balance the berries’ tartness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances acidity and preserves freshness.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Infuses extra citrus aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms the palate and evokes cozy holiday vibes.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a deep, fragrant spice with a hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Introduces a subtle nutty warmth for complexity.
- 1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin: Essential for thickening and creating that perfect jam consistency.
- 5 cups granulated sugar: Balances the tart fruits and ensures long-lasting preservation.
How to Make Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fruit
Start by combining the cranberries, strawberries, diced apple, orange juice, lemon juice, and orange zest in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and begins to break down, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This gentle cooking allows the flavors to meld together and the fruit to release its juices, setting the stage for a beautifully textured jam.
Step 2: Mash the Fruit
Once the fruit is tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to gently mash the mixture to your desired consistency. Whether you prefer a chunkier jam or a smoother spread, this step lets you customize the texture beautifully.
Step 3: Add Spices and Pectin
Stir in the warm winter spices: cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. These spices give the jam its distinct Christmas character, making every bite feel like a cozy holiday memory. Then sprinkle in the fruit pectin and stir well to make sure it’s fully integrated, which will help the jam set perfectly when cooled.
Step 4: Bring to a Rolling Boil and Add Sugar
Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, add the sugar all at once and keep stirring. The sugar dissolves quickly and balances the tartness of the fruit. Return the mixture to a rolling boil and let it boil for exactly 1 minute. This step activates the pectin and ensures the jam will thicken just right.
Step 5: Jar and Seal
Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface to keep your jam clear and beautiful. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and optionally process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if you’re planning to store them long-term. Otherwise, you can refrigerate the jam and enjoy it right away.
How to Serve Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe
Garnishes
This jam shines with simple garnishes that complement its festive flavor. Fresh sprigs of rosemary or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top can add visual appeal for holiday gatherings. Even a small dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese alongside can make for a delicious treat that brightens your palate.
Side Dishes
Serve your Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe alongside warm, crusty breads, buttery biscuits, or soft cream cheeses. It’s also fantastic paired with roasted meats like turkey or ham, where its sweet and spicy notes cut through richer flavors, elevating your Christmas dinner to something truly special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming gift or party favor, spoon the jam into pretty jars and tie them with festive ribbons. You can also use the jam as a glaze for holiday desserts or mix it into yogurt or oatmeal for a seasonal twist on breakfast. The versatility of this jam means it can brighten every moment of your holiday celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three weeks, making it easy to enjoy a taste of the holidays well beyond Christmas Day.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your jam, freezing is an option. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. When properly sealed and frozen, the jam can last up to six months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using, and stir gently to refresh the texture.
Reheating
To bring your jam back to a spreadable consistency after refrigeration or freezing, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir frequently and avoid overheating to maintain its vibrant flavor and lovely texture. This way, it’s always ready to make your meals merry and bright.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries and strawberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking so the textures combine smoothly and the cooking times remain consistent.
Do I have to use fruit pectin?
Fruit pectin helps this jam set with the perfect thickness, so it’s highly recommended. Without it, your jam might end up more like a syrupy sauce than a spreadable preserve.
How long does the jam last once opened?
Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and use it within three weeks for the best flavor and freshness.
Can I adjust the spice levels?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to your liking. If you prefer a milder spice profile, reduce the amounts slightly; for a bolder kick, add a pinch more.
Is this jam vegan?
Yes, this Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe is entirely vegan, as it contains no animal products—just naturally delicious fruit, spices, and sugar.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade jam during the holidays, and this Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe captures that magic beautifully. It’s easy to make, packed with seasonal flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to give it a try—it just might become your new holiday tradition!
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Spiced Christmas Cranberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 7 half-pint jars
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A festive and flavorful Spiced Christmas Jam featuring cranberries, strawberries, and apple, enhanced with warm spices and citrus notes. Perfect as a holiday gift or a delicious addition to toast, cream cheese, or roasted meats.
Ingredients
Fruit and Juices
- 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Other Ingredients
- 1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin
- 5 cups granulated sugar
Instructions
- Combine Fruit and Juices: In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, strawberries, apple, orange juice, lemon juice, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit begins to soften and break down, about 10 minutes.
- Mash Fruit: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to lightly mash the fruit to your desired consistency, creating the base texture for the jam.
- Add Spices: Stir in ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until evenly incorporated to infuse warm, festive flavors.
- Incorporate Pectin: Sprinkle in the fruit pectin and stir well to combine thoroughly ensuring proper setting of the jam.
- Boil Mixture: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning or sticking.
- Add Sugar: Add the granulated sugar all at once and stir continuously. Return to a rolling boil and boil vigorously for exactly 1 minute to activate the pectin and thicken the jam.
- Remove Foam: Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam from the surface for clear jam.
- Jar the Jam: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace to allow for expansion.
- Seal and Process: Wipe rims clean, seal jars with lids, and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure preservation and safety.
- Storage: Allow jars to cool completely. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening or if not processed immediately for future use.
Notes
- This jam makes an excellent homemade holiday gift for friends and family.
- Try the jam spread on toast, over cream cheese with crackers, or as a flavorful glaze for roast meats.
- If fresh fruit is unavailable, frozen fruit works well. Be sure to thaw before using.
