Why Make This Christmas Jam
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and one of the best ways to capture that spirit is by making a batch of Christmas Jam. Bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh cranberries and citrus, this jam not only tastes delicious but also fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. It’s the perfect homemade treat to enjoy with your holiday meals or to gift to friends and family, making it a delightful addition to any celebration!
How to Make Christmas Jam
Making Christmas Jam is incredibly straightforward, and the results are simply delightful. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a tangy, sweet spread that elevates your breakfast toast, holiday pastries, or even savory dishes. Plus, the bright red color of this jam adds festive cheer to any table setting. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to whip up this seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup water
Directions:
To start, grab a medium saucepan and combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the mixture heats up, you’ll notice the cranberries starting to pop—this is what you want! Continue cooking until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Once it reaches this stage, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let your beautiful jam cool slightly before transferring it to clean jars. It’s a good idea to store the jam in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can give these jars as charming gifts for the holidays!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 50
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin C: 5% of the Daily Value
How to Serve Christmas Jam
There’s no wrong way to enjoy Christmas Jam! Spread it on warm, buttered toast, waffles, or pancakes for a festive breakfast that will brighten your morning. It’s also fantastic paired with cream cheese on crackers or bagels as part of a holiday brunch spread. For the savory side, try it on a turkey sandwich or alongside roasted meats to give a wonderful contrast to rich flavors.
How to Store Christmas Jam
To keep your homemade Christmas Jam fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about two weeks. If you want to preserve it for longer, consider freezing it in smaller portions. Just ensure you’re using freezer-safe containers. This way, you can enjoy the taste of holiday cheer even after the season has passed!
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Jam
- Use fresh cranberries instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the sugar according to your taste; if you prefer a tart jam, reduce the sugar a little.
- Make sure to stir frequently while cooking to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- For a spiced flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg while cooking.
Delicious Variations
- Spiced Christmas Jam: Add a stick of cinnamon during cooking for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Cranberry-Apple Jam: Substitute half of the cranberries with chopped apples for a sweeter jam.
- Jalapeño Christmas Jam: Add finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
Q: Can I adjust the sugar in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet jam, feel free to reduce the sugar to suit your taste. Start with 3/4 cup and taste as you go.
Q: How do I make this recipe vegan?
A: This recipe is already vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based, so you’re good to go!
Conclusion
Christmas Jam is a heartwarming recipe that brings the flavors of the season into your kitchen. Its delightful sweetness and tangy undertones make it a versatile treat for both brunches and holiday dinners alike. Whether you keep it for yourself or share it as a gift, this jam is sure to spread joy. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and make this lovely homemade jam today! Feel free to drop a comment below to share your experience or any variations you tried!
Christmas Jam
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
- Transfer the cooled jam to clean jars.