Christmas Cranberry Strawberry Spiced Jam Recipe
Introduction
This Christmas Jam is a vibrant and festive spread made from fresh cranberries and strawberries, infused with warm spices. It’s perfect for holiday breakfasts, gifting, or adding a seasonal touch to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- 24 oz. fresh cranberries (about 6 cups)
- 16 oz. fresh strawberries
- 1½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp. ground cloves
- ¼ tsp. ground ginger
- 2 cups brown sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Add all the ingredients into the slow cooker and stir well to combine.
- Step 2: Cook on HIGH for 4 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
- Step 3: When cooking is complete, transfer the mixture to a blender and pulse until a jam forms. Avoid over blending to prevent turning it into cranberry butter. An immersion blender works well for this step too.
- Step 4: Allow the jam to cool; it will thicken significantly as it cools thanks to the natural pectin in cranberries.
- Step 5: Once cooled, store the jam in jars or containers for later use.
Tips & Variations
- Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker for easier cleanup and more control over the jam’s texture.
- Adjust the brown sugar amount if you prefer a less sweet jam.
- Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
- For a smoother jam, blend a bit longer but stop before the mixture becomes too smooth.
Storage
Store the jam in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage—thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to restore spreadable consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries and strawberries can be used. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to prevent a watery jam.
How do I know when the jam is done cooking?
The jam is ready when the berries have broken down, the mixture is thickened, and you can see it bubbling gently in the slow cooker. It will thicken further as it cools.
PrintChristmas Cranberry Strawberry Spiced Jam Recipe
This festive Christmas Jam combines fresh cranberries and strawberries with warm holiday spices to create a deliciously spiced, naturally pectin-rich jam. Slow-cooked to meld the flavors perfectly, it’s an ideal spread for toast, biscuits, or holiday desserts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of jam 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fruits
- 24 oz. fresh cranberries (about 6 cups)
- 16 oz. fresh strawberries
Spices
- 1½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
Sweetener
- 2 cups brown sugar
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the fresh cranberries, strawberries, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and brown sugar into the slow cooker. Stir them together well to evenly distribute the spices and sugar among the fruit.
- Cook the Jam: Set the slow cooker on HIGH and cook for 4 hours. Do not open the lid during this time to ensure even cooking and help the fruit release its natural pectin for thickening.
- Blend the Mixture: When cooking is complete, transfer the hot fruit mixture to a blender. Pulse the mixture carefully until a jam-like consistency forms. Avoid over-blending as it can turn the jam into cranberry butter. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker for ease.
- Cool and Thicken: Allow the jam to cool; it will thicken substantially due to the natural pectin in cranberries. This is normal and part of achieving the perfect jam texture.
- Store the Jam: Once cooled, transfer the jam to clean containers or jars and store in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Do not open the slow cooker during cooking to ensure proper thickening.
- Be cautious not to over-blend to avoid turning your jam into a butter-like texture.
- The jam will naturally thicken as it cools due to cranberries’ high pectin content.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Store the jam refrigerated and consume within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.
Keywords: Christmas jam, cranberry jam, slow cooker jam, holiday jam recipe, spiced jam, fruit preserves
