Merry Christmas Jam

Recipe Information

Author: Recipes by deesviral
Category: Homemade Jam
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: About 6 half-pint jars

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 (1.75-ounce) package fruit pectin

Instructions

1. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, cranberries, orange juice, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the fruit becomes soft.
4. Stir in the fruit pectin and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
5. Boil for exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly.
6. Gradually add the sugar, stirring until completely dissolved.
7. Add the orange zest, cinnamon, and ground cloves.
8. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and boil vigorously for another 1 minute, stirring continuously.
9. Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam from the surface.
10. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼-inch headspace.
11. Wipe the jar rims clean, apply the lids, and tighten the bands until fingertip tight.
12. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
13. Carefully remove the jars and allow them to cool undisturbed for 24 hours. Check that each lid has sealed before storing.

Recipe Tips

• Fresh cranberries provide the brightest holiday flavor, but frozen work just as well.
• Do not reduce the sugar, as it helps the jam set properly.
• Always use sterilized jars and fresh lids for safe canning.
• A chilled spoon can help you quickly test the consistency before jarring.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for an even warmer holiday flavor.

Storage

Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate and enjoy within three weeks.

Serving Ideas

• Spread over warm biscuits, toast, or English muffins.
• Serve with cream cheese and crackers.
• Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies.
• Spoon over cheesecake or vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with roasted turkey, ham, or pork.
• Package in decorative jars for homemade Christmas gifts.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Tablespoon)

• Calories: 45
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 11g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Sodium: 0mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes. Frozen strawberries and cranberries work beautifully without changing the recipe.

Can I freeze this jam instead of canning it?

Absolutely. Let the jam cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one year.

Why didn’t my jam set?

The jam may need 24 to 48 hours to fully set. Accurate measurements and proper boiling times are essential.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Not with regular fruit pectin. Use a low-sugar pectin if you wish to significantly reduce the sugar content.

Conclusion

This Merry Christmas Jam captures the flavors of the holiday season in every spoonful. Sweet strawberries, tart cranberries, fresh orange, and warming spices create a beautifully balanced preserve that’s perfect for breakfast, desserts, entertaining, and thoughtful homemade gifts. Make a batch during the holidays and enjoy a taste of Christmas all year long.