Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

Making your own Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. This vibrant and delicious jam brings the bright tartness of cranberries together with warm spices, creating a perfect addition to your holiday breakfast table or as a thoughtful homemade gift. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a festive spread that will delight friends and family alike.

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry jam is a wonderful way to capture the essence of the holiday season. The bright flavors of cranberries combined with sugar and spices create a festive treat that elevates any meal. Not only is this jam delicious, but it’s also easy to make. It’s a great option for those who want to avoid store-bought jams, which often contain preservatives and artificial flavors. Plus, homemade cranberry jam is customizable, allowing you to add your own special touch. Whether you spread it on toast, use it in desserts, or gift it in charming jars, this cranberry jam is sure to please.

How to Make Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

Ready to start making your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide that will walk you through the process.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, and water over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Once thickened, stir in the cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
5. Transfer the jam to sterilized jars and allow it to cool completely before sealing the jars tightly.
6. Store the jam in the refrigerator for use or give it as a delightful gift to friends and family.

Pro Tips for Success Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cranberries to ensure your jam has the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allow the mixture to reach the proper thickness as the cranberries burst; this enhances the texture of the final product.
• Sterilize Your Jars: To prevent spoilage, ensure your jars are properly sterilized before filling them with jam.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the mixture before storing; if you find it too tart, feel free to add a bit more sugar to suit your palate.
• Experiment with Spices: Beyond cinnamon and nutmeg, consider adding a hint of ginger or allspice for unique flavor profiles.
• Cool Completely Before Sealing: Allow the jam to cool to room temperature before sealing it in jars to prevent condensation inside and ensure a longer shelf life.

Flavor Variations Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

• Orange Cranberry Jam: Add zest from an orange during cooking for a citrusy twist that brightens up the flavors.
• Spiced Pear Jam: Blend in finely diced pears along with the cranberries to create a unique fruit combination that’s deliciously sweet.
• Chili Cranberry Jam: For a spicy kick, include a pinch of red chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
• Vanilla Ginger Jam: Replace the ground cinnamon with fresh ginger for a warm, spicy note, and enhance it with a high-quality vanilla bean.
• Mint Cranberry Jam: Incorporate mint leaves for a refreshing herbal flavor that pairs wonderfully with holiday dishes.

Serving Suggestions Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Spread it on Toast: It’s perfect on a slice of warm buttered toast or bagels.
• Add to Cheese Boards: Include the jam as a sweet contrast on your cheese platter alongside rich cheeses like Brie or cheddar.
• Use in Desserts: Swirl it into yogurt, use it as a filling for pastries, or serve it with vanilla ice cream.
• Glaze for Meat Dishes: Incorporate it as a glaze for roasted meats like chicken or pork to add a festive touch.
• Mix in Beverages: Stir a spoonful into cocktails or sparkling water for a seasonal drink that guests will love.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

To maximize the shelf life of your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam, store it in airtight jars in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks. If you want to preserve it for a longer period, consider freezing the jam. Here’s how:

• Freezing the Jam: Ensure your jam is completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for up to one year.
• Thawing: When you’re ready to use it, simply transfer the jar from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|————|
| Calories | 90 |
| Protein | 0g |
| Carbs | 23g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 1mg |

FAQ About Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

How long does homemade cranberry jam last?

Homemade Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam can last in the refrigerator for about 2-3 weeks if stored properly in airtight jars. If you freeze the jam, it can last up to a year. However, for the best flavor and quality, it’s recommended to consume it within a few months of freezing.

Can I use frozen cranberries to make this jam?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them first before cooking. The texture may differ slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious!

How can I tell when my jam is done cooking?

You will know your jam is ready when the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens significantly, usually within 10-15 minutes of boiling. Another way is to do the spoon test: place a spoonful of the jam on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run off the plate, it’s ready.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to suit your taste preferences. However, keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with the gel texture of the jam. If you reduce the sugar significantly, the consistency may be less thick.

What if my jam doesn’t gel?

If your jam doesn’t gel, it may not have cooked long enough or may need additional pectin. To remedy this, you can reheat the jam on the stove and add a bit more sugar and pectin, then let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

Can I use other fruits with cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits such as apples, pears, or citrus fruits to create a unique blend of flavors in your cranberry jam. Just be aware that this may change the overall cooking time and texture.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is not just a delightful treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to share the joy of the season with others. This festive jam is easy to make with simple ingredients, and it offers plenty of opportunities for customization. Whether it’s served at holiday breakfasts, as part of a cheese board, or given as a thoughtful gift, this jam is a delicious addition to any celebration. Enjoy making and sharing this sweet creation, embracing the joy and warmth that the holiday season brings.

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