Introduction
Spread some festive cheer with this delightful Christmas Jam! This jam is a fantastic blend of holiday flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re looking to gift it or keep it all to yourself (because let’s be real, it’s just too yummy to share), this Christmas Jam is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
- 1 pound fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1 10-ounce package frozen strawberries, thawed
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 pouch (3 ounces) liquid fruit pectin
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
Instructions
1. Throw those cranberries and strawberries into a large pot. Let’s get them partying together over medium heat!
2. Gradually add the sugar while stirring and mix in the cinnamon and cloves for that home-for-the-holidays aroma.
3. Once you’ve got a sweet, bubbly mixture, bring it to a boil and keep it rolling for about 1 minute.
4. Stir in the pectin and boil again for another minute. Don’t forget to stir!
5. Now pour that ruby red concoction into sterilized jars, leaving about a quarter-inch of space at the top. Seal them up while still hot.
6. Let the jars cool and set up. Once they’re room temperature, pop them in the fridge or give them away as festive gifts!
Enjoy your homemade Christmas Jam and the joy it brings!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
Throw those cranberries and strawberries into a large pot. Let’s get them partying together over medium heat!
Step 2: Add Sugar and Spices
Gradually add the sugar while stirring and mix in the cinnamon and cloves for that home-for-the-holidays aroma.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Once you’ve got a sweet, bubbly mixture, bring it to a boil and keep it rolling for about 1 minute.
Step 4: Incorporate Pectin
Stir in the pectin and boil again for another minute. Don’t forget to stir!
Step 5: Jar the Jam
Now pour that ruby red concoction into sterilized jars, leaving about a quarter-inch of space at the top. Seal them up while still hot.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Let the jars cool and set up. Once they’re room temperature, pop them in the fridge or give them away as festive gifts!
Notes
Storage
The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. For longer storage, consider canning.
Gift Ideas
These jars make perfect gifts! Decorate them with festive ribbons or labels for an extra touch.
Serving Suggestions
Use the jam on toast, as a topping for desserts, or even in savory dishes. Enjoy the festive flavors!
Cook techniques
Preparing the Fruit
Start by washing the fresh cranberries thoroughly and thawing the frozen strawberries. This helps to ensure a clean and rich flavor for your jam.
Cooking the Mixture
Combine the cranberries and strawberries in a large pot over medium heat. This allows the fruits to begin releasing their juices and flavors. Stirring gradually while adding sugar will enhance the sweetness evenly throughout.
Adding Spices
Mix in the ground cinnamon and cloves during the sugar incorporation stage. These spices not only contribute to the flavor but also evoke the warm, nostalgic aroma of the holiday season.
Boiling the Jam
Once the mixture is bubbly, bring it to a rolling boil for about one minute. This helps to dissolve the sugar completely and combine all the ingredients into a cohesive jam.
Integrating Pectin
Stir in the liquid fruit pectin and return the mixture to a boil for another minute. This step is crucial for achieving the desired jam consistency.
Jarring the Jam
Pour the hot jam into pre-sterilized jars while leaving a quarter-inch of space at the top. This ensures proper sealing and prevents any spillage.
Cooling and Storing
Allow the jars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps the jam set properly and is perfect for gifting once cooled.
FAQ
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh strawberries can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they release enough juice.
How long does Christmas jam last?
When properly sealed and refrigerated, it can last for up to a year. Unopened jars stored in a cool, dark place can last even longer.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
While you can reduce the sugar, it may affect the set and flavor of the jam. Sweetness is essential for balancing the tartness of cranberries.
Is this jam suitable for canning?
Yes, this jam can be water-bath canned for longer storage. Ensure jars are sealed properly for safe preservation.
What can I use Christmas jam for?
This delightful jam is perfect for spreading on toast, topping desserts, or as a condiment for savory dishes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary creations.
Conclusion
