Christmas Jam for Canning

If you’re looking for a delightful way to spread some holiday cheer, then this Christmas Jam for Canning is just the ticket! This recipe fills your kitchen with the warm scents of cinnamon and citrus, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for winter. It’s not only a wonderful addition to your breakfast table, slathered on homemade biscuits, but it also makes for a thoughtful gift that friends and family will cherish. There’s something truly special about sharing homemade goodness during the holidays, don’t you think?

This jam is a festive blend of strawberries and cranberries, capturing the essence of the season in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering, this recipe fits right in. Let’s dive into making this lovely jam together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have jars of delicious jam ready to enjoy.
• Family-friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, especially when it involves colorful fruit!
• Perfect for gifting: Beautifully jarred and labeled, this jam makes an excellent present for friends and neighbors.
• Great flavor: The sweet-tart balance of strawberries and cranberries, paired with warm spices, creates a festive treat.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare jars now and enjoy them throughout the winter or give them away as holiday gifts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! For this Christmas Jam for Canning, you’ll find that these simple, wholesome ingredients are easy to come by. Let’s take a look at what you need:

• 40 ounces frozen unsweetened strawberries, crushed (fresh is fine but usually more expensive)
• 1 pound fresh cranberries
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (about 2 oranges)
• ¼ cup bottled lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 5 pounds granulated sugar (yes pounds, NOT cups)
• 2 3 ounce pouches liquid fruit pectin

Variations

One of the best things about this jam is its flexibility — feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add other fruits: Consider mixing in some raspberries or blueberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger to give your jam a unique twist.
• Less sweet option: Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet jam; just ensure there’s enough sugar for proper setting.
• Citrus zing: Boost the citrus flavor by adding lime zest along with the orange.

How to Make Christmas Jam for Canning

Step 1: Prep the Jars

First things first—let’s get our jars ready! Wash the jars, lids, and bands in hot soapy water. Rinsing them well is crucial to ensure no soap residue interferes with sealing later. Keep those jars warm while we prepare our lovely jam mixture!

Step 2: Combine the Fruits and Juice

In a large stainless steel saucepan, mix together those beautiful crushed strawberries and fresh cranberries along with bottled lemon juice. Adding orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves brings warmth and spice into play. Stir everything together until well combined; this helps coat all the fruit evenly with those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Pectin

Now comes the sweet part! Add all that sugar along with both pouches of liquid fruit pectin into your fruity mix all at once. Stir well—this prevents clumping and ensures everything blends beautifully. Bring your mixture to a full rolling boil; watch it bubble enthusiastically! Boil hard for just one minute while stirring constantly—this step helps activate the pectin.

Step 4: Skim the Foam

Once you’ve boiled your mixture like a pro, remove it from heat. Using a spoon, skim off any foam that forms on top. Not only does this create smoother jam but it also gives your final product that professional touch.

Step 5: Fill the Jars

Carefully ladle your hot jam into those prepared jars. Leave about ¼ inch headspace at the top—this little space is essential for sealing later on! Use a bubble remover tool (or even a chopstick) to eliminate any trapped air bubbles. Wipe down those rims with a clean cloth before placing on lids and screwing bands fingertip-tight.

Step 6: Process

Next up is processing! Place those filled jars in your water bath canner ensuring they’re fully submerged by at least an inch of water. Cover it up and bring it all to a gentle boil. Process your jars for 10 minutes—adjusting time if you’re at higher altitudes—and then turn off the heat after!

Step 7: Cool Down

Using jar lifters (safety first!), carefully remove each jar from the canner and set them on a clean kitchen towel spaced apart. Allow them to cool undisturbed for about 12-24 hours; this resting period helps ensure they seal properly.

Step 8: Check Seals

After waiting patiently (I know it’s hard!), check each jar’s seal by pressing down on the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back up towards you—yay! You’ve got perfectly sealed jars! Don’t forget to label them with contents and date before storing them somewhere cool and dark.

Enjoy making this Christmas Jam for Canning—it truly captures all that festive spirit in every jar!

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Jam for Canning

Making jam can be a wonderfully rewarding experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Christmas Jam turns out beautifully every time.

• Use quality ingredients – Fresh or high-quality frozen fruits yield the best flavor and texture in your jam. Opting for frozen strawberries can save you money without sacrificing taste.
• Measure accurately – When it comes to jam-making, precision is key, especially with sugar and pectin. Use a kitchen scale for the sugar to ensure you’re using the right amount, as this affects the set of your jam.
• Check pectin’s freshness – Always check the expiration date on your liquid fruit pectin. Using fresh pectin ensures that your jam will gel properly and have the perfect consistency.
• Keep jars warm – Keeping your jars warm before filling them helps prevent cracking when hot jam is poured in. You can do this by placing them in a simmering water bath.
• Don’t skip cooling time – Allowing jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours is crucial for sealing. This helps create a strong vacuum seal, ensuring long-lasting freshness.

How to Serve Christmas Jam for Canning

Christmas Jam isn’t just a delicious treat; it’s also a lovely gift and addition to any festive spread. Here are some delightful ways to present it!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves – A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the sweet flavors of the jam.
• Orange zest – A sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top enhances its citrusy notes while adding visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Homemade biscuits – Flaky, buttery biscuits are perfect for slathering with Christmas Jam, creating a warm and inviting breakfast or snack.
• Cream cheese spread – Pairing the jam with cream cheese on crackers creates an excellent appetizer. The creaminess balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layering yogurt with granola and spoonfuls of Christmas Jam makes for a festive breakfast or dessert option that’s both healthy and delicious.
• Cheese platter – Serve alongside a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create an elegant cheese board that pairs wonderfully with sweet jams.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll not only enjoy making your Christmas Jam but also sharing it with loved ones during this holiday season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Christmas Jam for Canning is not only a delightful treat but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious jam on hand for your holiday gatherings or cozy breakfasts. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
• For opened jars, refrigerate and consume within three weeks.
• Always use a clean utensil when scooping out jam to avoid contamination.

Freezing

• Although canning preserves the jam well, you can freeze it if you want to extend its shelf life.
• Transfer the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to one year.

Reheating

• If your jam thickens after refrigeration, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
• Avoid microwaving directly in the jar as it may cause uneven heating and potential splatter.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Christmas Jam for Canning!

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?

Yes! While fresh cranberries can be used, frozen cranberries are often more convenient and equally flavorful.

How long does Christmas Jam for Canning last?

When stored properly in sealed jars, this jam can last up to one year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within three weeks.

What can I do with leftover Christmas Jam for Canning?

Leftover jam is fantastic on toast, paired with cheese platters, or even as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream!

Can I adjust the spice levels in my Christmas Jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more cinnamon or cloves according to your taste preference. Just remember that spices can greatly influence the overall flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Jam for Canning is truly a labor of love that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. Not only does it make your home smell heavenly while cooking, but it also serves as a wonderful gift or addition to any holiday celebration. I hope you find joy in making this recipe and that it becomes a cherished part of your seasonal traditions. Happy canning!