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Merry Christmas Jam Recipe

Merry Christmas Jam Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 16 reviews

This Merry Christmas Jam combines the vibrant flavors of strawberries, cranberries, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a festive and delicious spread perfect for holiday breakfasts and gift-giving. With a balance of tart and sweet and a rich, thick texture, this jam captures the spirit of the season in every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

Liquids and Sweeteners

  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Spices and Pectin

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fruit: In a large pot, combine strawberries, cranberries, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and the cranberries begin to pop, about 10 minutes.
  2. Blend the Fruit (Optional): For a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture to your desired consistency. Alternatively, leave it chunky if you prefer a rustic texture.
  3. Add Sugar and Spices: Stir in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar completely.
  4. Incorporate the Pectin: Gradually stir in the powdered fruit pectin. Continue boiling the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the jam thickens.
  5. Test the Jam: Place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles slightly when pushed with your finger, the jam is ready.
  6. Jar the Jam: Remove the pot from heat and ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids and bands.
  7. Process the Jars: Place jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. After processing, remove and let cool at room temperature.
  8. Label and Store: Once jars are completely cooled, label them and store in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Refrigerate after opening.

Notes

  • Using frozen fruit is perfectly fine; just thaw slightly before starting.
  • Adjust the spice quantities according to your taste preferences or omit if desired.
  • Ensure jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage.
  • If you prefer a chunkier jam, skip the blending step.
  • Orange juice adds a nice citrus brightness that balances the tart cranberries.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas jam, strawberry cranberry jam, holiday preserves, homemade jam, fruit pectin jam

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/merry-christmas-jam-recipe/