As the festive season approaches and my home starts to fill with the delightful scents of holiday baking, I find myself yearning for homemade treats that capture the spirit of Christmas. This Cranberry Strawberry Jam recipe is a treasure I unearthed one cozy afternoon while flipping through my grandmother’s cherished cookbooks. The vibrant combination of tart cranberries and sweet strawberries brings a burst of color and flavor, making it the perfect addition to holiday brunches or gift-giving.
Imagine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg weaving through your kitchen as the jam slowly cooks in the slow cooker—this achingly simple method creates a delightful spread that requires minimal effort while maximizing flavor. Perfect for those chilly mornings when you want to elevate your toast or to add a festive touch to your charcuterie board, this Christmas Jam is bound to become a seasonal staple you’ll look forward to every year. Let’s get started on this delicious journey that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is this Christmas Jam Recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a slow cooker needed, this jam is effortless to prepare.
Bursting with flavor: The unique blend of cranberries and strawberries, paired with warm spices, creates an irresistible taste.
Versatile delight: Perfect on toast, pancakes, or as a festive filling for pastries, this jam suits all occasions.
Gift-worthy treat: Fill jars to share with loved ones—homemade gifts always have a personal touch.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Its vibrant color and delicious taste make it a hit at holiday gatherings!
Christmas Jam Recipe Ingredients
For the Jam
• 24 oz. fresh cranberries – select plump, vibrant berries for the best flavor and color.
• 16 oz. fresh strawberries – use just-ripe strawberries for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• 1½ tsp. ground cinnamon – this spice adds warmth, enhancing the festive feel of your jam.
• 1 tsp. ground nutmeg – a touch of nutmeg brings depth and richness to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp. ground cloves – these cloves provide a fragrant kick that sings of the holiday spirit.
• 1/4 tsp. ground ginger – ginger adds a subtle spiciness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• 2 cups brown sugar – brown sugar infuses the jam with a hint of molasses, giving it a luscious sweetness.
How to Make Christmas Jam
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Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker, giving them a gentle stir to mix the cranberries, strawberries, and spices evenly. This delightful mixture will soon create a vibrant jam.
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Set cooking to HIGH and let the jam cook for 4 hours undisturbed. Keep the lid on tight; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping the moisture locked in.
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Blend the jam contents carefully after cooking is complete. Pour everything into a blender, pulsing until you reach a desirable jam texture. Be cautious not to over-blend or you might end up with cranberry butter instead! An immersion blender works well, too.
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Cool the jam completely before transferring it to jars for storage. This step is crucial, as it will help preserve the fresh flavors and thick consistency.
Optional: Serve with scones or as a topping for yogurt to elevate your breakfast!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Jam?
Elevate your festive gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance this vibrant jam and bring out the warmth of the season.
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Buttermilk Pancakes: Serve warm pancakes topped with a generous dollop of jam for a sweet brunch that’s pure comfort. The fluffy texture contrasts beautifully with the jam’s fruity burst.
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Flaky Scones: These buttery, flaky scones serve as the perfect base to enjoy the spread, allowing the jam to shine with every bite. A warm scone paired with this homemade jam is pure bliss!
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Cream Cheese Spread: Whip up a tangy cream cheese spread to complement the sweetness of the Christmas Jam—perfect for a sophisticated holiday appetizer. Plus, it balances the flavors wonderfully on a toasted bagel.
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Charcuterie Board: Add your jam to a festive charcuterie board alongside cheeses and meats. The vibrant colors and sweet-tart notes create a delightful contrast, making your spread irresistible.
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Roast Turkey or Ham: Use the jam as a glaze for your holiday meats. Its sweet and spicy notes will enhance the savory dishes, infusing them with holiday cheer. Pair with fresh herbs for additional aroma!
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Sparkling Wine: Toast the season with bubbly! The crispness of sparkling wine complements the jam’s rich flavors, making for a festive drink that pairs perfectly with any holiday spread.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Liven up your holiday baking with this jam as a filling for gingerbread cookies. The pairing is playful and seasonal, perfect for indulging during cozy gatherings.
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Vanilla Yogurt: For a light dessert, spoon the jam over creamy vanilla yogurt. This delightful combination is refreshing and showcases the jam’s vibrant flavors beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Jam
Fridge: Store your Christmas Jam in clean, sterilized jars and refrigerate after cooling. It will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars. It can be kept for up to 6 months without losing taste or texture.
Reheating: If you want to enjoy it warm, gently heat the jam in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Airtight Sealing: Always make sure your containers are airtight to prevent freezer burn and maintain the vibrant flavor of your Christmas Jam.
Christmas Jam Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful jam, adding your personal touch to heighten its holiday cheer.
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Berry Mix: Substitute half the strawberries with raspberries for a tart twist that adds a pop of color and tang. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in your mouth!
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Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to enhance brightness and balance the sweetness. The citrus aroma will waft enticingly through your kitchen.
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Spiced Upgrade: Sprinkle in an extra half teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of allspice to intensify the warm flavor profile your guests will adore. It turns an already comforting jam into a cozy sensation!
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Reduced Sugar: Swap brown sugar for a sugar substitute or coconut sugar for a healthier option, maintaining sweetness without the extra calories. The process remains the same, but the jam will fit nicely into your health-conscious holiday meals.
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Sweet Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to give your jam a spicy kick. The juxtaposition of heat against the sweet and tart flavors creates an unexpected but delightful surprise!
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts after blending for added texture and nutty flavor that elevates your jam’s recipe. This added crunch makes a lovely contrast when spread onto your toast.
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Tropical Twist: Mix in some diced pineapple or mango for a fruity interplay that appeals to those longing for a taste of sunshine. This summer-inspired twist adds a refreshing vibe to your festive gatherings.
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Vanilla Dream: Infuse with a splash of pure vanilla extract after blending to give your jam a luscious depth that will evoke fond memories of family gatherings. The richness of vanilla makes every bite more indulgent!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Jam Recipe make-ahead options are perfect for busy holiday cooks! You can prepare and combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker up to 24 hours in advance—just ensure your cranberries and strawberries are clean and ready to go. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and then set your slow cooker to HIGH and cook as directed when you’re ready. To maintain the jam’s quality, be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to jars for storage, as this will preserve its delightful flavor and texture. Once cool, your jam can be kept for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic option for holiday gifting or festive brunches!
Helpful Tricks for Christmas Jam
• Ingredient Quality: Always choose fresh, ripe berries for your Christmas Jam recipe to achieve the best flavor and vibrant color.
• Avoid Over-blending: Be careful when blending the jam; over-blending can lead to a smooth texture that resembles cranberry butter!
• Seasoning Balance: Adjust the spices based on personal preference. If you prefer a spicier jam, increase the cinnamon or ginger slightly.
• Proper Cooling: Allow the jam to cool completely before transferring to jars; this step ensures the ideal consistency and flavor preservation.
• Storage Tips: Store your jam in clean, sterilized jars for maximum freshness. Refrigerate after opening and use within a few weeks.
Cranberry Strawberry Jam Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cranberries and strawberries for this Christmas Jam recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh cranberries, look for berries that are plump, firm, and have a vibrant color without any dark spots. For strawberries, aim for just-ripe berries that are shiny and fragrant. Avoid any that are overly soft or have bruising as they will affect the flavor and consistency of your jam.
How should I store my Christmas Jam after it’s made?
Very easy! After your jam cools completely, transfer it to clean, sterilized jars. Store these jars in the refrigerator, where the jam will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. Make sure the lid is on tight to keep out any unwanted odors and moisture.
Can I freeze Christmas Jam? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Jam, pour it into airtight containers or freezer-safe jars, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Your jam can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat for a delightful spread.
What should I do if my jam is too runny or too thick?
Don’t worry, there’s a fix! If your jam is too runny, you can return it to the slow cooker on HIGH for another 30 minutes to simmer and thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water or berry juice at a time, blending well until you reach the desired consistency. Always taste during adjustments to ensure the flavors remain balanced.
Is this Christmas Jam recipe safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! While cranberries and strawberries are generally safe for dogs in moderation, the added sugar and spices might not be suitable for them, so it’s best to keep this jam as a treat for humans only. If anyone has allergies, be sure to double-check the spice and sugar contents, especially if you’re giving it as a gift, to avoid any allergic reactions.
Can I adjust the spices used in my Christmas Jam?
Very much so! You can definitely tweak the spices to tailor the jam to your palate. If you love a bolder spice presence, feel free to increase the cinnamon or nutmeg slightly. Just add a little at a time and taste as you go until you find that perfect flavor balance you love!
Delicious Christmas Jam Recipe to Spark Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker, giving them a gentle stir to mix the cranberries, strawberries, and spices evenly.
- Set cooking to HIGH and let the jam cook for 4 hours undisturbed. Keep the lid on tight.
- Blend the jam contents carefully after cooking is complete. Pour everything into a blender, pulsing until you reach a desirable jam texture.
- Cool the jam completely before transferring it to jars for storage.