🎄 Introduction
First of all, thank you so much for being here. Whether you’re dreaming up new gift ideas, prepping for Christmas brunch, or simply craving something cozy and nostalgic—your presence here means the world. In the rush of the holiday season, choosing to make something homemade is such a heartfelt gesture. And Christmas Red Jam is the perfect place to start.
This jam isn’t just a pretty jar on the counter. It’s a fruity, spiced, jewel-toned wonder that captures the essence of the holidays in every spoonful. Sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced—it’s like Christmas morning in a jar. Plus, it’s versatile, giftable, and surprisingly easy to make.
🥄 What Is Christmas Red Jam?
Christmas Red Jam is a festive homemade preserve made with red fruits (like cranberries, strawberries, or red currants) simmered together with seasonal spices—think cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and sometimes a splash of orange to brighten it all up.
The result is:
- Vibrant in color
- Bold in flavor
- Cozy in aroma
- Perfect for everything from breakfast to dessert—or gifting!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually stunning – Its deep ruby hue instantly says “Christmas!”
- Flavor-packed – Tart fruits meet warm spices for the ultimate balance
- Easy to make – One pot, a little stirring, and you’re good
- Naturally festive – Smells amazing while cooking
- Makes a thoughtful gift – Dress it up in a jar with ribbon and you're set
🍓 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for a standard batch (makes 3–4 jars):
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup red currants (optional, adds extra tang)
- 1½ cups sugar (adjust depending on your sweet tooth)
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp grated nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional additions: orange zest, a splash of brandy, or pectin for thicker jam (if desired)
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Potato masher (for breaking down fruit)
- Sterilized jars with lids
- Funnel (optional, but helps with jar filling)
- Candy thermometer (optional, but handy)
🧡 Step-by-Step: How to Make Christmas Red Jam
1. Prep the Fruit
- Rinse and roughly chop strawberries.
- If using fresh currants, rinse and de-stem.
- Combine all fruit in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook the Jam
- Add sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla to the saucepan.
- Stir well and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer + Mash
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Use a masher or the back of a spoon to gently break down the fruits as they soften.
- Stir often to prevent sticking or burning.
4. Test for Doneness
- The jam is ready when it thickens and holds shape on a cold plate (or reaches 220°F/104°C on a candy thermometer).
- If you prefer a smoother jam, blend slightly with an immersion blender.
5. Jar It Up
- Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars.
- Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and let cool at room temp.
- Store in the fridge or water-bath can for shelf-stable storage.
🧁 How to Use Christmas Red Jam
It’s more than a spread—here are some festive ways to enjoy it:
- Slathered on buttery scones or croissants
- Swirled into yogurt or oatmeal
- Glazed over roast meats (think ham or pork!)
- Used as a cake or tart filling
- Spooned over cheesecake or panna cotta
- Added to cheese boards for contrast
- Sealed in jars and gifted with a ribbon 🎁
🧑🍳 Tips for Jam Success
🍊 Choose High-Pectin Fruits
Cranberries and currants naturally contain pectin, helping the jam set without extra thickeners.
🥣 Stir Often
To prevent burning, especially once the jam starts to thicken.
❄️ Use Frozen Fruit
No fresh fruit? Frozen cranberries and strawberries work beautifully—just thaw and drain first.
🎁 Make It Gift-Worthy
Decorate jars with:
- Red gingham or twine
- Handwritten tags
- A sprig of rosemary or mini cinnamon stick tucked in
🧊 Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Up to 3 weeks
- Freezer: Up to 6 months in freezer-safe jars
- Shelf-stable: Water bath can for 10 minutes and store up to 1 year
📖 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this jam without sugar?
Yes, but you'll need to use a low/no-sugar pectin or adjust the cooking time. The flavor will be more tart.
Can I skip the currants?
Absolutely! They’re optional. Just add a bit more cranberry or strawberry to balance.
How do I know the jam is done?
Drop a bit on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
Can I double the batch?
Yes, but cook in a large pot and stir more frequently to avoid scorching.
🌟 Conclusion: A Jar of Christmas Joy
Making this Christmas Red Jam isn’t just about filling jars—it’s about creating gifts, starting traditions, and savoring the season. The process is comforting, the scent is intoxicating, and the results? Pure joy in a jar.
Whether you’re spreading it on toast on a frosty morning or tucking it into a gift basket with love—this jam adds a handmade touch to your holiday season.
💡 You May Also Like:
📸 Share Your Holiday Creations!
Did you make this jam? I’d love to see it! Tag your jars, breakfasts, or baked goods with #ChristmasRedJam and follow @AllRecipesHealthyFood for more festive magic.
Until then, may your kitchens be warm, your jars be full, and your hearts be light. ❤️
Happy Holidays,
– Carolina
Nutritional Information (Approx. per tablespoon):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
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