Christmas Jam Recipe A Homemade Holiday Treat

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Imagine combining the cozy sweetness of strawberries with the bright tartness of cranberries. That is exactly what Christmas Jam delivers. It is simple to make, full of holiday flavor, and perfect for gifting in pretty jars. Spread it on warm toast, spoon it into yogurt, or use it as a glaze for roasted meats. Your family will ask for it year after year and your friends will love receiving it as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Jar filled with rich, chunky Christmas Jam with a spoon inside.

Why You Will Love Christmas Jam

Festive blend of strawberries and cranberries
Easy enough for beginners to make
Works for breakfast, desserts, or savory dishes
Looks beautiful packaged in jars for holiday gifts

Ingredients You Need

Strawberries fresh or frozen hulled
Cranberries fresh or frozen
Sugar white or turbinado
Liquid fruit pectin

Optional ideas add a little cinnamon or orange zest for extra holiday flavor.

Close-up of a spoonful of glossy Christmas Jam being lifted from a jar.

Step by Step Directions

Step 1 Prepare the Berries

Finely chop strawberries and cranberries in a food processor. Do not puree completely.

Fresh cranberries and strawberries coated in frost, the main ingredients for Christmas Jam.

Step 2 Cook the Fruit

Transfer the fruit mixture to a Dutch oven. Stir in sugar and bring to a rolling boil. Boil for 1 minute.

Pot of Christmas Jam with sugar added to simmering cranberries and strawberries, ready to be cooked into a festive spread.

Step 3 Add Pectin

Remove from heat and stir in liquid pectin. Return to boil for 1 more minute stirring constantly.

Step 4 Skim and Jar

Let rest for 5 minutes then skim off foam. Ladle into hot sterilized jars leaving about a quarter inch of space at the top.

Christmas Jam bubbling on the stove with cranberries and strawberries simmering together.

Step 5 Process the Jars

Wipe rims clean place on lids and process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Cool on a towel undisturbed until sealed.

Jar of Christmas Jam with a spoonful of ruby-red jam being scooped out.

Tips and Variations

Add holiday spices like cinnamon or cloves for warmth
Try raspberries or apples in place of strawberries
Use freezer safe jars if you want to skip canning
For a natural set simmer longer without pectin using fruits higher in natural pectin

Serving Ideas

Spread on biscuits scones or toast
Pair with roast turkey or ham as a glaze
Stir into oatmeal yogurt or cheesecake
Use as filling for thumbprint cookies
Add to a cheese board with crackers

Conclusion

Christmas Jam is a tradition waiting to happen. It is easy to make tastes amazing and is one of the best edible gifts for the season. Save this recipe so you will have it ready for every holiday season and pin it to your Pinterest boards to share the cheer.

FAQ

Can I use frozen fruit

Yes both strawberries and cranberries can be used frozen Just thaw before chopping

How long will it last

Unopened jars last up to two years Once opened keep in the fridge and use within a month

Can I lower the sugar

Only if you use a special low sugar pectin Otherwise the jam may not set properly

What is a good way to gift it

Fill small jars tie with ribbon and include a handwritten note or recipe card