Ingredients:
4 cups mixed red fruits (such as strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, and red currants)
2 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Optional: 1-2 tablespoons fruit liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Chambord)
Equipment:
Large, heavy-bottomed pot
Canning jars with lids
Canning funnel
Jar lifter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Wash and hull strawberries, then chop into small pieces
If using frozen berries, thaw partially
Combine all fruits in the large pot
Step 2: Cook the Jam
Add sugar and lemon juice to the fruit
Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out juices
Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly
Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until thickened
Skim off any foam that forms on top
Step 3: Test for Doneness
Place a small plate in the freezer for 5 minutes
Drop a teaspoon of jam on the cold plate
If it wrinkles when pushed, it's ready
If not, cook 5 more minutes and test again
Step 4: Final Flavoring
Remove from heat
Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and liqueur (if using)
Step 5: Jar and Process
Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace
Wipe rims, apply lids and bands
Process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes
Remove and let cool completely
Check seals before storing
Creative Ways to Use Christmas Red Jam
Breakfast & Brunch:
Spread on scones, biscuits, or toast
Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt
Layer in French toast or pancakes
Appetizers & Entertaining:
Glaze for meatballs or cocktail sausages
Topping for baked Brie or goat cheese
Filling for thumbprint cookies
Main Courses & Sides:
Glaze for ham or pork tenderloin
Stir into pan sauces for poultry
Mix into salad dressings
Desserts & Drinks:
Filling for layer cakes or tarts
Topping for ice cream or cheesecake
Swirled into cocktails or mocktails
Storage & Gifting Tips
Storage:
Refrigerate opened jars for up to 3 months
Freeze for up to 1 year
Unopened, properly canned jars last 1 year
Gifting Ideas:
Decorate jars with festive fabric tops
Add handwritten labels with storage instructions
Create gift baskets with cheese and crackers
Pair with homemade baked goods
Recipe Variations
Cranberry-Orange Christmas Jam:
Use 3 cups cranberries + 1 cup orange segments
Add 1 tablespoon orange zest
Substitute orange liqueur for vanilla
Spiced Berry Jam:
Mix strawberries, raspberries, and cherries
Add 1 star anise pod while cooking
Remove star anise before jarring
Ruby Citrus Marmalade:
Combine red grapefruit, blood oranges, and cranberries
Include thin citrus peel slices
Boost with ginger instead of cinnamon
There you have it—the perfect homemade Christmas Red Jam that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition in your home! Whether you’re keeping a jar for your own family or giving them as heartfelt gifts, this beautiful, flavorful spread brings the taste of Christmas to every bite.
May your holidays be sweet and your kitchen filled with joy! 🎄✨
