A Christmas jam is usually a festive fruit preserve made with seasonal fruits and warm spices, perfect for gifts or holiday breakfasts. It often includes a mix of berries, citrus, or apples, and is flavored with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, or ginger. Here’s a classic recipe:
🎄 Christmas Jam (Spiced Fruit Preserve)
Makes: ~4 cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40–50 min
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300 g) cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup (150 g) strawberries, chopped
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped
- 1 orange, zest and juice
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit:
- Wash and chop the fruit as needed. Peel and core the apple. Zest and juice the orange.
- Combine ingredients:
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, strawberries, apple, sugar, orange zest and juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Cook the jam:
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 30–40 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and fruits break down.
- Check consistency:
- To test, place a spoonful on a cold plate; if it gels after a minute, it’s ready.
- Stir in vanilla extract at the end if using.
- Jar and store:
- Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ~¼ inch headspace.
- Seal and let cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.
🍎 Variations & Tips
- Add nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add crunch and flavor.
- Richer flavor: Stir in a splash of brandy, rum, or port at the end.
- Extra color: Add pomegranate seeds or red currants for a vibrant festive look.
- Texture preference: Mash more or less depending on whether you want a chunky or smooth jam.
This jam is perfect on toast, scones, or cheese boards during the holidays.
I can also give a no-cook, quick Christmas jam recipe using frozen berries if you want a faster version. Do you want me to do that?
