Homemade Christmas Jam: A Festive, Fruity Holiday Favorite
As the holidays approach, there’s one gift that never fails to spread cheer — Homemade Christmas Jam. Bursting with bright cranberries, sweet strawberries, and a warming blend of holiday spices, this jam tastes like Christmas in a jar. Whether you’re spreading it on warm toast, gifting it to neighbors, or spooning it over cream cheese for a quick appetizer, this seasonal preserve will quickly become a must-have tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Christmas Jam
✅ Festive flavor in every bite – cranberry, orange, and strawberry blend beautifully
✅ Warm holiday spices – cloves, cinnamon, and allspice add cozy depth
✅ Perfect for gifting – pour into mason jars and top with ribbon
✅ Freezer-friendly – make in advance and enjoy all season
✅ Versatile – spread it, spoon it, swirl it into desserts
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cranberries | 12 oz | Fresh or frozen (thawed if frozen) |
| Orange | 1 | Peeled, sectioned, seeds removed |
| Orange zest | 2 tsp | From the orange peel |
| Strawberries | 16 oz | Fresh or frozen, hulled and thawed |
| Ground cloves | ¼ tsp | Adds warm spice |
| Ground cinnamon | ¼ tsp | Enhances fruit flavor |
| Allspice | ¼ tsp | Brings depth |
| Sugar | 4 cups | Pure cane sugar preferred |
| Powdered fruit pectin | 1–1.75 oz | Check your brand’s directions |
| Water | ½ cup | For dissolving pectin |
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or standard blender
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Canning jars with lids (sterilized)
- Ladle & funnel (for easier pouring)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
- Place cranberries, orange segments, orange zest, and strawberries into a blender or food processor.
- Pulse until the mixture is chunky but blended — not totally puréed. You want texture!
🍊 Tip: Remove any seeds from the orange before blending.
Step 2: Simmer the Fruit Base
- Pour the blended fruit mixture into a large saucepan.
- Stir in cloves, cinnamon, and allspice.
- Add water and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
🔥 This simmering step opens up the spices and helps marry the fruit flavors.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Pectin
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Add the sugar and powdered pectin gradually, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
- Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
⚠️ Make sure the mixture reaches a full boil after adding sugar and pectin. This is what helps it set properly.
Step 4: Test the Jam for Thickness
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate.
- Let it cool for 1–2 minutes. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready to jar.
- If too thin, boil for another 1–2 minutes and test again.
Step 5: Fill and Seal Jars
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace.
- Wipe the rims clean, add lids, and seal tightly.
🫙 For gifts, add festive fabric over the lids and tie with twine or ribbon.
Step 6: Store or Preserve
You have two storage options:
- Refrigerator: Let jars cool completely and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 weeks.
- Freezer jam: Let jars cool and freeze for up to 6 months.
- Canning method: Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for shelf-stable storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread it on: Toast, biscuits, English muffins, scones, or pancakes
- Swirl into: Yogurt, oatmeal, cheesecake batter
- Spoon over: Brie or cream cheese with crackers for a festive appetizer
- Use as filling: In thumbprint cookies, cake layers, or holiday pastries
🎁 Homemade Christmas Jam makes an excellent holiday gift! Pair with a loaf of fresh bread or homemade scones for a thoughtful basket.
Tips for Jam-Making Success
✅ Use fresh, high-quality fruit – the better the fruit, the better the jam
✅ Measure ingredients exactly – balance is key to setting properly
✅ Sterilize jars – clean jars prevent spoilage and extend shelf life
✅ Don’t overcook – boiling too long can break down the pectin
✅ Label your jars – include the date and flavor for easy gifting or storage
Add Your Own Twist
| Add-In | Result |
|---|---|
| 1 tbsp Grand Marnier or orange liqueur | Sophisticated citrus finish |
| Chopped candied ginger | Zingy warmth |
| A dash of nutmeg | Extra holiday spice |
| Vanilla bean | Deep sweetness |
| Jalapeño or chili flakes | Sweet heat twist |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use less sugar?
A: Reducing sugar can prevent proper setting. Use low-sugar pectin if you want a lower-sugar version.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: It’s better to make smaller batches. Larger amounts can lead to uneven setting.
Q: Can I use bottled orange juice instead of a fresh orange?
A: It’s best to use the whole orange with zest for maximum flavor and texture.
Q: My jam didn’t set. What now?
A: You can reboil with more pectin, or enjoy it as a delicious fruit syrup!
Conclusion: A Taste of the Holidays in Every Jar
This Homemade Christmas Jam is more than just a recipe — it’s a way to capture the flavors, warmth, and spirit of the season. With vibrant fruit, comforting spices, and a touch of holiday magic, it makes every morning feel like Christmas morning.
Whether you serve it, gift it, or stash it away for cozy winter breakfasts, this jam brings joy with every spoonful.