1. Can I use frozen fruit to make Spiced Christmas Jam?

Yes, frozen fruit works perfectly for this recipe. If using frozen cranberries or strawberries, be aware that they may release more moisture during cooking. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure the jam thickens properly. Frozen fruit is a great option if fresh fruit isn't available during the off-season.

2. How long does Spiced Christmas Jam last once canned?

Properly canned Spiced Christmas Jam can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. Always check the seals on your jars before storing them to ensure they are properly sealed. Once opened, the jam should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks.

3. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

While sugar plays a key role in the jam's texture and preservation, you can reduce it slightly if you prefer a less sweet version. However, it's important to maintain the balance to ensure the jam sets correctly and stays safe for long-term storage. If you're concerned about sugar content, consider using a sugar substitute, but always check the guidelines for canning with substitutes.

4. What should I do if my Spiced Christmas Jam doesn’t set?

If your jam doesn't set after canning, it may not have been boiled long enough or enough pectin was not used. You can try reheating the jam, adding more pectin, and boiling it again for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can use it as a topping or sauce, or make it into a syrup to drizzle over pancakes and waffles.

Spiced Christmas Jam – Easy Recipe for Holiday Cheer

Name: Spiced Christmas Jam
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds fresh or frozen strawberries (6 cups); 1/2 pound fresh or frozen cranberries (2 cups); 2 1/2 pounds sugar (5 cups); 2 pouches liquid fruit pectin (170mL each); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Description

Spiced Christmas Jam is a delightful holiday treat made with cranberries, strawberries, and a mix of seasonal spices like cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and cloves. It combines sweetness and tartness with aromatic warmth, making it the perfect addition to your holiday breakfast or an ideal homemade gift.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds fresh or frozen strawberries (6 cups)
1/2 pound fresh or frozen cranberries (2 cups)
2 1/2 pounds sugar (5 cups)
2 pouches liquid fruit pectin (170mL each)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Puree the strawberries and cranberries in a food processor until smooth. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your processor.
Transfer the pureed fruit to a large saucepan. Add the sugar, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Stir well to combine.
Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a full boil. Stir constantly, and once it is boiling vigorously, continue for one full minute.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the liquid fruit pectin. Return to the heat and bring it to a full boil again. Boil for one more minute while stirring constantly.
Remove from the heat, skim off any foam, and discard it.
Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Place the sterilized lids on and screw on the bands until just snug.
Process the jars in a water bath for 10 minutes, ensuring the jars are fully submerged. Remove and let them cool for at least 12 hours before storing.

Notes

If using frozen fruit, you may need to cook the jam for a bit longer to evaporate the excess moisture.
Be sure to sterilize the jars before filling them to ensure proper sealing.
If you notice the jam hasn’t set after canning, you can reprocess it by adding more pectin and boiling again.
This jam makes a great gift! Package it with some crackers and cheese for a thoughtful present.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Jam, Canning, Holiday Treats
Method: Stovetop, Water Bath Canning
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 59 kcal
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 0.3mg
Fat: 0.1g
Saturated Fat: 0.003g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.02g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0.3g
Protein: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 0mg