Absolutely! Here’s a festive homemade Christmas jam recipe that’s full of seasonal flavors like cranberries, oranges, and warming spices. This recipe makes about 4–5 half-pint jars.
Festive Christmas Jam Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups chopped apples (peeled, cored)
- 1 ½ cups sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the fruit:
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, chopped apples, orange juice, and water. Cook over medium heat until the fruit begins to soften (about 10 minutes). - Add sugar and spices:
Stir in sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the fruit breaks down (about 15–20 minutes). - Check consistency:
To test, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready. If not, cook a few more minutes. - Add vanilla:
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. - Jar the jam:
Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of space at the top. Seal immediately. - Cool and store:
Let jars cool to room temperature, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or process in a water bath for long-term storage.
💡 Tips:
- For extra sparkle, add a tablespoon of brandy or rum for a festive twist.
- You can swap apples for pears for a sweeter, softer texture.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender after cooking.
If you want, I can also give you a super easy no-cook Christmas jam that’s perfect for last-minute gifting—it’s fruity, festive, and doesn’t require hours on the stove.
Do you want me to include that version too?
