Description

This Christmas Jam is a stunning ruby-red, sweet–tart holiday spread made from cranberries, apples, orange zest, and cozy seasonal spices. It’s thick, glossy, beautifully spiced, and perfect for gifting. With its bright flavor and festive aroma, it tastes like Christmas in a jar.

Introduction

Homemade Christmas Jam is one of the best gifts you can make during the holidays. It’s simple, affordable, and full of flavor. This recipe combines cranberries for tartness, apples for natural pectin, and orange for brightness — all simmered with warm holiday spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Whether you serve it at breakfast, give it as a gift, or add it to a Christmas brunch table, this jam is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally thick thanks to cranberries and apples
Rich color and festive flavor
Easy to make in one pot
Perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings
Freezer-friendly and canning-friendly

Ingredients

4 cups (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
1 large apple (peeled, cored, finely chopped)
Zest and juice of 1 large orange (about 1/2 cup juice)
1/2 cup water
3 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Wash and sort the cranberries, removing stems or soft berries.
Zest the entire orange, then squeeze it to collect the juice.
Peel, core, and finely chop the apple so it softens evenly in the jam.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit Base

Place the cranberries, chopped apple, orange zest, orange juice, and water into a heavy pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
As the cranberries cook, they will burst and release natural pectin. The apples will soften and help thicken the jam.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Spices

Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely.
Return the mixture to a strong, rolling boil. This step ensures the jam develops its glossy texture and deep flavor.

Step 4: Add the Pectin

Squeeze the entire pouch of liquid pectin into the pot.
Bring the jam back to a hard boil and cook for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
This rapid boil activates the pectin and helps the jam set properly.

Step 5: Test for Doneness

Place a small plate in the freezer for 2 minutes.
Drop a small spoon of jam onto the cold plate and wait 30 seconds.
Push the edge with your finger. If it wrinkles, the jam is ready. If not, boil for 1 more minute and test again.

Step 6: Skim and Rest

Remove the pot from heat. Skim any foam from the top.
Let the jam rest for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so the fruit distributes evenly.

Step 7: Jar the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
Wipe jar rims clean and place lids on fingertip-tight.

Storage Options

For Long-Term Pantry Storage

Place the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Remove and let cool completely until lids seal (they should not move when pressed).

For Refrigerator or Freezer Jam

Allow jars to cool completely.
Refrigerate for 3 weeks or freeze for up to 12 months.

Variations

Cranberry–Raspberry Christmas Jam

Add 1 cup raspberries for a sweeter, fruitier jam.

Spiced Vanilla Christmas Jam

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or half a vanilla bean.

Orange–Ginger Jam

Add 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger for a warm, spicy kick.

Low-Sugar Version

Use a low-sugar pectin and reduce sugar to 1½ cups.

Tips for Best Results

Use a wide, heavy pot for even cooking.
Don’t skip the rest time — it prevents fruit from floating.
Liquid pectin must be added at a full boil to work correctly.
For stronger orange flavor, add extra zest.

Serving Suggestions

Spread on toast, muffins, or biscuits
Use as a glaze for holiday ham or roasted turkey
Serve over cream cheese with crackers
Add to yogurt or oatmeal
Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies

FAQs

Can I use powdered pectin instead of liquid?

Yes, but timing changes. Use one packet of powdered pectin and add it with the fruit, not after boiling.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Absolutely — no need to thaw them first.

Why is my jam too loose?

It may need to cool fully, or you may need to boil it 1–2 more minutes after adding pectin.

Why is my jam too thick?

Reduce cooking time slightly next time. Cranberries have strong natural pectin and thicken quickly.

Conclusion

This Christmas Jam is a festive, vibrant, and flavorful holiday treat that makes a beautiful gift or a delicious addition to your seasonal table. With its mix of tart cranberries, sweet apple, bright orange, and warm spices, each spoonful tastes like the essence of Christmas. Simple to prepare and perfect for sharing, this jam will become a cherished holiday tradition year after year.