Name: Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 2 cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen); 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped; 1 orange, zested and juiced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin (powdered); 5 cups granulated sugar

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If you are on the hunt for a delightful homemade treat that captures the festive spirit of the season, look no further than the Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe. This vibrant jam balances the tartness of cranberries with the sweet juiciness of strawberries, while warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg add that cozy holiday touch. It’s the perfect spread to brighten your breakfasts, add charm to your holiday gifts, or simply enjoy with your favorite baked goods. Making this jam fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, and every spoonful brings a burst of seasonal joy that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up view of a metal pot filled with a thick, deep red fruit sauce that has a glossy, slightly chunky texture with whole and mashed berries visible throughout. The sauce evenly coats the sides of the pot, and the pot is placed on a black electric stove with visible buttons and warning labels. The surface under the stove is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating this jam is wonderfully straightforward because each ingredient plays an important role in building its texture, flavor, and festive color. From fresh fruits to fragrant spices, these simple essentials deliver a homemade jam experience that feels anything but ordinary.

3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: They provide the tart backbone and gorgeous red hue of the jam.
2 cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen): Add sweetness and juicy texture that balance the cranberries perfectly.
1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped: Helps naturally thicken the jam and adds subtle sweetness.
1 orange, zested and juiced: Brings bright citrus notes that lift and refresh the flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Acts as a natural preservative and enhances overall tartness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warm, familiar spice that screams holiday cheer.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Adds depth and an earthy spiciness for complexity.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A little sprinkle for that classic winter seasoning.
1 (1.75 oz) package fruit pectin (powdered): Essential for helping the jam set with the perfect thickness.
5 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the jam and helps preserve it so you can enjoy it beyond the season.

How to Make Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Fruit

Start by washing your cranberries and strawberries if fresh, and chop the strawberries into small pieces. Peel and finely chop the apple, then zest and juice the orange. Having all your fruit ready and prepped ensures the cooking process is smooth and even.

Step 2: Combine and Cook the Fruit

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the cranberries, strawberries, chopped apple, orange zest, orange juice, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This simmer softens the fruit and loosens their natural juices, creating that luscious jam base.

Step 3: Add Spices and Pectin

Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and the fruit pectin. Stir vigorously to incorporate the spices evenly and activate the pectin, which is key to thickening the jam as it cooks.

Step 4: Stir in Sugar and Boil

Add the granulated sugar all at once, stirring constantly to dissolve it. Once mixed, bring the jam back to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for exactly one minute to ensure the jam will set properly and develop the right consistency.

Step 5: Test and Jar the Jam

To test if your Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe has set, drop a small spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it is ready. Remove from heat, skim off any foam, and ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, sealing immediately.

How to Serve Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe

A close-up top view of a metal pot filled with bright red cranberries, white sugar sprinkled over them, and a light yellow liquid underneath. There is one large cinnamon stick placed on top near the center, and small pieces of orange zest scattered around, adding a touch of bright orange color. The pot's shiny inner surface reflects some of the ingredients, and the pot is placed on a black stove with various labels on the right side. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped rosemary or a few whole cranberries placed atop your toast or crackers with this jam can create a beautiful and aromatic garnish. The herbal touch contrasts delightfully with the jam’s warmth.

Side Dishes

This jam pairs beautifully with warm biscuits, buttery scones, or even a creamy brie cheese board. It adds a festive flair that enhances both breakfast spreads and holiday appetizers alike.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider layering this jam between cake layers or swirling it into yogurt parfaits for a creative twist. It’s also delicious spooned over vanilla ice cream or dolloped onto pancakes and waffles for a seasonal breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover jam after your holiday gatherings, simply store it in airtight jars in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and flavorful for about 3 to 4 weeks, making it easy to enjoy well beyond Christmas Day.

Freezing

This jam freezes beautifully for longer storage. Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. When frozen, it maintains its texture and taste perfectly for up to six months.

Reheating

To bring frozen jam back to life, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps restore its spreadable consistency and fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen cranberries and strawberries work well in this Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe. Frozen fruits are convenient and also help preserve the jam’s texture and color.

Is it necessary to use pectin?

Yes, pectin is important here to ensure your jam sets correctly. Without it, the jam may be too runny. You can find powdered fruit pectin easily at most grocery stores.

Can I adjust the spice levels?

Definitely. Feel free to tweak the cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to your taste. The warmth of the spices can be dialed up or down to suit your holiday preferences.

What kind of jars should I use for storing the jam?

Use sterilized glass jars with tight-sealing lids. This keeps your jam fresh longer and prevents spoilage.

How long does the jam stay good once opened?

Once opened, the jam will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator as long as it’s sealed properly after each use.

Final Thoughts

Making and enjoying this Spiced Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam Recipe is such a merry way to celebrate the season’s flavors at home. It’s simple, rewarding, and full of the cozy spice notes that bring holiday memories to life. Whether for gifting or savoring yourself, I hope you dive right in and make this jam a new seasonal favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need