Here’s a festive Christmas Jam recipe—perfect for spreading on toast, gifting in jars, or adding to desserts. It’s rich, spiced, and full of holiday flavors.

🎄 Christmas Jam

Makes: ~4–5 jars
Time: 1–1.5 hours

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, cranberries)
1 cup chopped apples or pears
1 ½ cups sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp ginger (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Optional: ¼ cup brandy, rum, or orange liqueur for a festive kick

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit

Wash berries and chop apples/pears into small pieces.
Place all fruit in a large saucepan.

2. Cook the jam

Add sugar, spices, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves (~5 minutes).
Increase heat and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer uncovered for 25–35 minutes, stirring frequently, until fruit breaks down and mixture thickens.

Tip: Skim foam off the top for a clearer jam.

3. Optional alcohol

Stir in brandy, rum, or liqueur in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a warm, festive flavor.

4. Test for doneness

Place a small spoon of jam on a chilled plate.
If it gels after a minute, it’s ready.
If not, cook a few more minutes and test again.

5. Jar the jam

Sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Pour hot jam into jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace.
Seal and let cool.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or process in a water bath for long-term storage.

⭐ Tips for a Christmas Twist

Add nuts: Chopped toasted almonds or pecans for texture.
Citrus: Add a little orange or lemon zest for brightness.
Spices: Cardamom, allspice, or star anise for extra holiday flavor.
Sweeten naturally: Substitute some sugar with honey or maple syrup.

If you want, I can give a “luxury Christmas jam” version with cranberries, orange zest, and warming spices that’s perfect for gifting in decorative jars.

Do you want me to make that version?