Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Best Christmas Jam Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 5 half-pint jars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Sweet, tangy, and infused with the flavors of the season, this homemade Christmas Jam is the perfect combination of cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, citrus zest, and warm holiday spices. It’s a must-make for your holiday spread or as a festive homemade gift. Ideal for those searching for easy holiday recipes, quick breakfast ideas, or thoughtful Christmas food gifts, this jam is the ultimate seasonal treat for toast, scones, or even savory pairings.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)

2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen)

2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved (fresh or frozen)

1 medium orange, zested and juiced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

1/2 cup water

4 cups granulated sugar

1 pouch (3 oz) liquid fruit pectin


Instructions

1. Sterilize your jars by boiling them for 10 minutes or washing on the hottest dishwasher setting. Air dry.

2. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, raspberries, strawberries, orange zest, juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water.

3. Cook over medium heat for 10–15 minutes until fruit is soft and cranberries pop.

4. Mash fruit with a potato masher to your desired texture or blend for a smooth finish.

5. Stir in sugar and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.

6. Add the liquid pectin and continue boiling for 1–2 more minutes, stirring frequently.

7. Test the jam by dropping a bit onto a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.

8. Skim foam off the surface.

9. Ladle jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal jars.

10. For long-term storage, process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

11. Let jars sit undisturbed for 12–24 hours. Label and store.

12. Refrigerate once opened and use within 3–4 weeks.

Notes

Use fresh or properly thawed frozen berries to avoid excess water.

Sterilizing your jars thoroughly is key for long-term shelf life.

Adding lemon juice is essential for acidity balance and proper setting.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Jam & Spreads
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Holiday / Christmas

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 45
  • Sugar: 11g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg