Christmas Jam for Canning

Christmas Jam is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of the season right into your home. This sweet and tangy jam can make your holiday breakfast feel extra special or serve as a beautiful gift for family and friends. With its bright red color and fruity taste, it captures the essence of Christmas in a jar!

Why make this recipe

Making Christmas Jam is a wonderful way to celebrate the season. Not only does it taste delicious, but it also fills your kitchen with a lovely aroma. It’s simple to prepare and provides a fun activity for families to do together. Plus, homemade jam is a gift that shows you care—everyone loves a jar of homemade goodness!

How to prepare Christmas Jam

Follow these easy steps to make your very own Christmas Jam.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced strawberries
• 1 cup diced cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 packet fruit pectin

Steps:

1. In a large pot, combine strawberries, cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.
2. Stir and let sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture is juicy.
3. Add lemon juice and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
4. Once boiling, stir in the fruit pectin and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and skim any foam off the top.
6. Ladle into sterilized jars and seal tightly.
7. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for proper preservation.
8. Let cool and store in a cool, dark place.

How to serve Christmas Jam

Christmas Jam is perfect on toast or muffins. You can also use it as a filling for pastries or swirl it into yogurt for a festive treat. For a special touch, serve it alongside a cheese platter for a delightful appetizer.

How to store Christmas Jam

Store the sealed jars of Christmas Jam in a cool, dark place. They can last for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks.

Tips to make Christmas Jam perfectly

• Make sure your jars are properly sterilized to ensure the jam stays fresh.
• Use fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor.
• If you like your jam smooth, mash the strawberries a little more before cooking.

Variations

You can easily mix up the fruit used in this recipe. Try adding raspberries or blueberries for a twist. For a hint of spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture before boiling.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen fruit for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Frozen fruit can work well, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.

Q2: How do I know if my jam has set?
A2: You can perform the “plate test.” Place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. If it firms up after a minute in the fridge, it’s ready!

Q3: What if I don’t have fruit pectin?
A3: You can use alternatives like cornstarch or try a no-pectin recipe, but the consistency may vary. Keep in mind pectin helps jam set properly.

Now that you have everything you need, get ready to make some Christmas Jam! Enjoy the sweet taste of the holidays in every bite.