I Can’t Stop Making Christmas Jam

Absolutely! Here’s a fully detailed breakdown of your Christmas Jam recipe post, perfect for sharing across platforms—whether you’re writing a blog, crafting a social media caption, or just want to preserve the magic of this seasonal favorite. 🎄🍓


I Can’t Stop Making Christmas Jam! 🎁🍓🫙

👇 Recipe in the First (C.O.M.M.E.N.T) 👇


Introduction

There’s just something magical about Christmas Jam—sweet, tangy, spiced just right, and bursting with holiday cheer in every spoonful. I’ve been making batches non-stop, and my coworkers keep begging me for more. It’s that good. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, and makes the perfect homemade gift. Tie a ribbon on a jar, and you’ve got yourself a heartfelt holiday treat that spreads joy—literally.


Origin and Cultural Significance

Christmas Jam is a relatively modern invention, gaining popularity in American and European kitchens in the late 20th century. It’s inspired by the tradition of using up end-of-season fruits—especially berries and cranberries—and blending them with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Homemade jams and preserves have long symbolized care, hospitality, and celebration, making them especially beloved during the holiday season. Sharing a jar is like giving a piece of your heart (in a cute mason jar, no less).


Ingredients Quantity

🎄 Classic Christmas Jam (Makes ~6 half-pint jars)

  • 1 (12 oz) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 lb fresh or frozen strawberries (about 3 cups, hulled)
  • 1 (1.75 oz) box fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 5 cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

Optional Additions

  • A splash of orange juice or zest for brightness
  • A pinch of nutmeg for deeper spice
  • Swap half the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a twist
  • Add vanilla extract after cooking for warmth
  • Use raspberries instead of strawberries for a tarter jam
  • Add a star anise pod during cooking for a subtle licorice note (remove before jarring)

Tips for Success

  • Use a large pot—jam bubbles up fast and hot!
  • Prep your jars before starting: sterilize and dry them to avoid contamination.
  • Use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down the fruit to your preferred consistency.
  • Stir constantly when adding sugar to avoid scorching.
  • Do the “wrinkle test” on a cold plate to check if the jam is ready to set (or use a thermometer: 220°F is perfect).
  • If canning: Use proper water bath canning methods to preserve safely for shelf storage.

Instructions

🫙 Step-by-Step Christmas Jam

  1. Prepare Fruit:
    Combine cranberries, strawberries, and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil and simmer until berries burst and soften (about 10–15 mins). Use a masher or blender to reach desired texture.
  2. Add Pectin & Spices:
    Stir in lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and pectin. Bring back to a boil.
  3. Add Sugar:
    Add all the sugar at once, stirring constantly. Return to a rolling boil and cook 1–2 minutes.
  4. Test & Jar:
    Remove from heat. Skim any foam. Ladle jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
  5. Seal Jars:
    • If canning: Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
    • If refrigerating only: Let cool, seal with lids, and store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Description

Christmas Jam is a vibrant ruby-red spread that tastes like holiday magic. Tart cranberries meet sweet strawberries, wrapped in the warm embrace of cinnamon and cloves. It’s perfect on toast, biscuits, scones, or even swirled into yogurt or oatmeal. Festive, fruity, and just the right amount of spice.


Nutritional Information (Per tablespoon)

  • Calories: ~45
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
    Values are approximate and will vary depending on sugar swaps or fruit changes.

Conclusion

This Christmas Jam recipe is truly one of those treasures that turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable. It brings the warmth of the season into every bite and makes your kitchen smell like a cozy Christmas market. No wonder everyone keeps asking for more!


Recommendation

Make a double batch—you’ll want some for yourself and for gifting. Add a festive tag, wrap in ribbon, and you’ve got the perfect stocking stuffer, teacher gift, or neighbor thank-you.


Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Even sweet jams can be enjoyed mindfully. Consider:

  • Using low-sugar pectin and reducing sugar by half
  • Swapping sugar for monk fruit or stevia blends (with adjusted pectin)
  • Pairing jam with whole-grain bread, chia pudding, or Greek yogurt

Balance is the key—enjoying festive treats without overindulgence lets you savor the season in both taste and health.


Let me know if you’d like a graphic recipe card, Instagram caption template, or a label design for your Christmas Jam jars!

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