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The Best Christmas Jam Recipe

The Best Christmas Jam Recipe

  • Author: Nina Johnson
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 3 to 4 half-pint jars 1x
  • Category: Jam / Preserves
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This homemade Christmas Jam is bursting with festive flavor, made from sweet strawberries, tart cranberries, and cozy hints of cinnamon, clove, and citrus. It’s easy to make, perfect for gifting, and delicious on everything from toast to cheesecake. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or just want a jar of joy, this jam is a must-try winter classic.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups strawberries, chopped

2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen

1 tablespoon orange zest

1⁄4 cup orange juice

3 cups granulated sugar

1⁄2 teaspoon cinnamon

1⁄8 teaspoon ground clove

1 pouch liquid pectin


Instructions

1. Rinse fresh strawberries and cranberries if using fresh. Hull and chop strawberries. If using frozen fruit, thaw slightly. Zest and juice the orange.

2. In a large pot, combine strawberries, cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and clove. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.

3. Set the pot over medium heat. Stir as fruit softens and begins to release juices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently. Lightly mash the cranberries.

4. Stir in the liquid pectin. Boil for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

5. Carefully ladle hot jam into sterilized jars. Wipe rims, seal with lids, and let cool. Refrigerate up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.


Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching the jam during simmering.

For a chunkier jam, leave some whole cranberries intact; for a smoother texture, mash them well.

Always sterilize jars before filling to extend the shelf life and ensure safe storage.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Christmas jam, strawberry cranberry jam, holiday preserves