Quick Description:
This delicious homemade Christmas Red Jam blends the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of strawberries, all balanced with a hint of lemon for extra zest. The vibrant color and festive flavor make it perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift. It’s easy to make and can be stored for weeks, allowing you to enjoy the taste of Christmas all year round.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: Makes 6-8 jars (depending on jar size)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Ingredients List:
- 5 cups fresh cranberries (washed)
- 4 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fruit
Before you start cooking, make sure the cranberries are washed thoroughly. Remove any stems or imperfections from the strawberries and hull them. Chop the strawberries into smaller chunks to ensure they break down more easily when cooking. Add both the cranberries and strawberries to a large pot.
Step 2: Mashing the Fruit
Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash the cranberries and strawberries. You don’t need to mash them completely, as leaving some chunks gives the jam a rustic texture. Aim to release the juices and make it easier for the fruit to cook down.
Tip: If you prefer a smoother jam, you can puree the fruit in a blender before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Adding the Sugar and Lemon Juice
Once the fruit is mashed, add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the pot. The sugar will help balance the tartness of the cranberries, and the lemon juice will add a touch of brightness and help the jam set. Stir the mixture until the sugar is dissolved completely.
Step 4: Cooking the Jam
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the jam doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. After it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The goal is to reduce the liquid, allowing the jam to thicken.
Keep an eye on the mixture as it simmers, and stir occasionally to prevent burning. The cranberries should burst open, and the jam will begin to thicken. If you notice the jam is too runny, allow it to cook for a bit longer, stirring frequently.
Tip: For a thicker consistency, continue simmering and stirring until the jam coats the back of a spoon and holds its shape.
Step 5: Checking for Thickness
To check the consistency, place a spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. Allow it to cool for a few minutes and then run your finger through it. If the jam wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready. If it’s still too runny, cook it for an additional 5-10 minutes and test again.
Step 6: Sterilizing the Jars
While the jam is cooking, sterilize your jars. This is important to ensure that the jam stays safe to eat and that the jars seal properly. Place your glass jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes, then remove them carefully and let them air dry.
Tip: You can also sterilize the jars in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet at 250°F (120°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Step 7: Pouring the Jam into Jars
Once the jam has reached the desired thickness, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars. Make sure to leave a 1/4-inch gap at the top of each jar to allow for expansion.
Tip: Use a funnel to make pouring the jam into jars easier and to avoid spilling.
Step 8: Sealing the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure they are free of any jam that could prevent the jars from sealing properly. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings tightly.
Tip: If you’re not sure the jars are sealed, you can process them in a water bath. Place the jars back into a pot of boiling water and let them process for 10 minutes. Once removed, you should hear a “pop” sound as the jars seal.
Step 9: Cooling and Storing
Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. You should hear a popping sound as the lids seal tightly. This means your jam is properly sealed and ready for storage. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
Once the jars are cooled, label them with the date. Homemade jam can last for about a year when stored properly, though it’s best consumed within 6 months for optimal flavor.
If you’ve made jam with fresh fruit, it’s important to refrigerate any opened jars and consume them within 2-3 weeks.
Additional Notes:
- Gift Idea: Christmas Red Jam makes a thoughtful and personalized gift. Pack it in cute jars with festive ribbons and tags to make it extra special.
- Jam Consistency Tip: If your jam is still runny after 25-30 minutes of cooking, you can add a small amount of pectin to help it set. Follow the instructions on the pectin package for proper use.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Fruit Variations: You can easily swap out the strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Just keep the cranberries for that signature tart flavor.
- Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday twist to the jam.
- Use as a Topping: This jam is delicious on toast, pancakes, or waffles. It also makes a great topping for yogurt, ice cream, or a layer in parfaits.
- Savory Pairing: Use this jam as a glaze for roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, or pork.
Storage & Make-Ahead:
- Refrigerate: Once opened, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Freeze: This jam can be frozen for up to a year. Let the jam cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight before using.
- Make Ahead: This jam can be prepared up to a week in advance for your holiday celebrations. Simply store in sealed jars and refrigerate.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this jam without pectin?
A: Yes, this jam doesn’t require pectin as the cranberries help thicken the jam naturally. However, if you prefer a thicker jam, feel free to add pectin to the mixture.
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh cranberries. Make sure to thaw them before using and drain off any excess liquid.
Q: Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Make sure to follow the conversion chart on your sweetener for the right measurements.
Optional Personal Story:
This Christmas Red Jam recipe has been a family tradition for me for years. I remember making it with my grandmother during the holiday season. The bright color and sweet-tart flavor always remind me of the holidays, and I love gifting jars of it to friends and family. It’s the perfect addition to any breakfast or dessert table, and it brings back fond memories every time I make it!
Call-to-Action:
Create your own Christmas Red Jam and enjoy the taste of the holidays throughout the year! Share your jam-making experience with family and friends and spread the joy of homemade, heartfelt gifts.
