There’s something magical about making *Christmas jam* during the holiday season, isn’t there? The sweet and tangy burst of cranberries combines with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating a festive aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s the perfect addition to your holiday gatherings, whether you’re slathering it on toast or pairing it with cream cheese on crackers. Trust me, this jam isn’t just a condiment; it’s a way to spread joy and flavor! You’ll want to make enough to share with loved ones—after all, homemade gifts are the best kind, and this jam is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
How to Prepare *Christmas Jam*
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
First things first, wash those beautiful fresh cranberries! Rinse them under cool water and take a moment to remove any stems or blemished berries. This step is crucial for a smooth jam!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the cleaned cranberries, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir everything together until the sugar begins to dissolve. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to help those cranberries release their juices.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Keep cooking until the cranberries burst open, which usually takes around 10 minutes. Once you see those little berries popping, reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 15 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking—this will ensure a smooth consistency!
Step 4: Cool and Store
When the mixture looks thick and delicious, remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a bit before transferring to clean jars. You can store your *Christmas jam* in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks—perfect for spreading joy throughout the holiday season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 35 minutes!
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have.
- The delightful sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes.
- It makes for an adorable and thoughtful gift in decorative jars.
- This jam enhances your holiday meals, making every bite a little more festive!
Tips for Success
To perfect your *Christmas jam*, here are a few handy tips! If you prefer a sweeter jam, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste—just remember to keep the balance with the tangy cranberries. Make sure to cook the mixture long enough for that thick, spreadable consistency, but don’t overdo it! And don’t skip sterilizing your jars before filling them; simply wash them in hot, soapy water, then rinse well. This ensures your jam stays fresh and safe!
Serving Suggestions
There are so many delightful ways to enjoy your *Christmas jam*! For a quick and easy appetizer, spread it over cream cheese on crackers—it’s a crowd-pleaser that always disappears fast! You can also use this jam as a glaze for roasted meats like turkey or ham, adding a sweet and tangy twist to your holiday feast. And don’t forget about breakfast; it’s perfect drizzled over pancakes or spread on warm, buttery toast. Trust me, you’ll find yourself reaching for it all season long!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your *Christmas jam* fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for up to 3 weeks—perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season! Once opened, just scoop out what you need without double-dipping to maintain its quality. You can use this versatile jam in so many ways: stir it into yogurt, spread it on breakfast pastries, or even mix it into your favorite salad dressings for a sweet twist. Enjoy every last spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of *Christmas jam* (about 1 tablespoon): 50 calories, 12g of sugar, and 13g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are approximations and can vary based on the exact ingredients used. It’s a sweet treat that’s worth every calorie during the festive season!
FAQ Section
How long does *Christmas jam* last?
When stored in the refrigerator, your *Christmas jam* will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!
Can I can this jam for longer storage?
Absolutely! If you want to can your jam, be sure to use sterilized jars and process them according to safe canning guidelines. This way, you can enjoy it all year long!
What if I want to adjust the flavors?
Feel free to experiment! You can add a splash of vanilla extract for a twist or swap out the spices for something like nutmeg or ginger. The possibilities are endless!
Is this jam suitable for gifting?
Yes! Pack it in pretty jars with festive ribbons, and you’ve got a lovely homemade gift that’s sure to impress!
Christmas Jam: 5 Magical Ways to Spread Holiday Joy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and tangy jam perfect for Christmas season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
Instructions
- Wash cranberries and remove any stems.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst, about 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to jars.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Can be given as gifts in decorative jars.
- Pairs well with cream cheese on crackers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: christmas jam, cranberry jam, holiday preserves
