Description
Discover the perfect holiday treat with our Spiced Christmas Jam. This festive jam combines tart cranberries with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, creating a delicious spread ideal for toast, cheese pairings, and holiday gifting. Easy to make and bursting with seasonal flavor, it’s a delightful addition to your festive celebrations.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh cranberries
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under cold water, discarding any damaged or discolored ones.
- Cook the Jam: In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Spices and Pectin: Stir in ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Add the fruit pectin and mix well. Continue cooking for 5 more minutes, stirring constantly, until the jam reaches your desired consistency.
- Check Consistency: To test, place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is ready. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
- Jar the Jam: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in lemon juice, if using. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean.
- Seal and Process: Place lids on the jars and screw on the metal rings until fingertip-tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.
- Store: Once cooled, check the seals by pressing the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed. Store in a cool, dark place. Enjoy within a year for the best flavor.
Notes
Fruit Pectin: Ensures the jam sets properly. If using a different brand, follow its specific instructions for best results.
Lemon Juice: Optional but adds a pleasant tartness and helps the jam set.
Consistency Test: For best results, ensure the jam reaches the desired thickness before jarring.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Preserves & Jams
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 half-pint jars
Keywords: Spiced Christmas Jam, cranberry jam, holiday jam, festive jam recipe, homemade jam, spiced cranberry spread