Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Jam is the ultimate holiday treat, bursting with seasonal flavors. The tart cranberries pair beautifully with sweet strawberries, and the warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg make it feel like Christmas in a jar. It’s easy to make in the slow cooker, with minimal hands-on time. Whether you’re serving it with toast, scones, or giving it as a gift, this jam is sure to spread holiday cheer.
Ingredients
- 24 oz. fresh cranberries (about 6 cups)
- 16 oz. fresh strawberries
- 1½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp. ground cloves
- ¼ tsp. ground ginger
- 2 cups brown sugar
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the cranberries, strawberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and brown sugar into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
- Blend: Once the cooking time is up, transfer the contents of the slow cooker into a blender. Pulse until the jam reaches a smooth consistency. Be careful not to over-blend, or you’ll turn the jam into cranberry butter. If you prefer, you can use an immersion blender to achieve the desired texture.
- Cool: Let the jam cool to room temperature before storing. It will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems thin while hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 20
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
(Note: This jam will thicken significantly as it cools, thanks to the natural pectin in the cranberries.)
Variations
- Add More Fruit: Feel free to experiment with adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries to the jam for a different flavor.
- Spicy Twist: If you prefer more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a subtle heat.
- Citrus Kick: Add a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
- Freezing: This jam can also be frozen for up to 6 months. Just place it in a freezer-safe jar or container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the slow cooker.
2. Can I reduce the sugar in this jam?
You can reduce the amount of sugar to your liking, but keep in mind that the sugar helps the jam set and adds sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
3. How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is done when it has thickened and has a smooth consistency. It will continue to thicken as it cools. To test, you can place a small spoonful on a plate and see if it holds its shape.
4. Can I make this jam on the stovetop instead?
Yes, you can make this jam on the stovetop. Combine all the ingredients in a large pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, blend it as directed.
5. How do I make this jam chunky instead of smooth?
To keep the jam chunky, blend it less or only pulse it for a few seconds to break up some of the larger pieces while leaving others intact.
6. Can I make this jam without the spices?
Yes, you can omit the spices and still have a delicious jam. The cranberries and strawberries will shine on their own, but the spices add a lovely holiday touch.
7. Can I add pectin to help the jam set?
Cranberries naturally contain pectin, so additional pectin is usually not necessary. However, if you prefer a firmer set, you can add some if desired.
8. Can I use this jam for baking?
Yes! This Christmas Jam is perfect for using as a filling in pastries, tarts, or as a topping for cakes and muffins.
9. Can I gift this jam?
Absolutely! This jam makes a great homemade gift. Just store it in cute jars with decorative labels for a personal touch.
10. Can I use this jam as a glaze for meats?
Yes! The sweet-tart flavor of this jam works wonderfully as a glaze for roasted meats, such as turkey, chicken.
Conclusion
This Christmas Jam is the perfect holiday treat, blending the bright flavors of cranberries and strawberries with warming spices. It’s easy to make in your slow cooker and can be enjoyed all season long. Whether you’re serving it with breakfast, giving it as a gift, or using it in baked goods, this festive jam will make your holiday season even sweeter.
Christmas Jam Recipe
This Christmas Jam is a festive and delicious spread made with tart cranberries, sweet strawberries, and warming spices. Easy to prepare in a slow cooker, this jam is the perfect holiday treat for your breakfasts or brunches, and it also makes a wonderful homemade gift. Enjoy the flavors of Christmas in every bite!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Jam/Spread
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients
24 oz. fresh cranberries (about 6 cups)
16 oz. fresh strawberries
1½ tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
½ tsp. ground cloves
¼ tsp. ground ginger
2 cups brown sugar
Instructions
-
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place cranberries, strawberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and brown sugar into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
-
Cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
-
Blend: After cooking, transfer the contents to a blender and pulse until the jam reaches a smooth consistency. Use an immersion blender for a smoother blend.
-
Cool: Let the jam cool to room temperature before storing. It will thicken as it cools.
Notes
Fruit Variations: Add blueberries, raspberries, or other berries to customize the flavor.
Spicy Kick: For heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Citrus Twist: Add orange zest or a splash of orange juice for extra zest.
Chunky Version: Pulse less if you prefer a chunkier jam.
