The Best Christmas Cranberry-Raspberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a festive flavor explosion that captures everything wonderful about the holidays, you have to try The Best Christmas Cranberry-Raspberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe. This vibrant, jewel-toned jam marries the tartness of cranberries, the delicate sweetness of raspberries, and the sun-kissed notes of strawberries with warm spices and a citrusy zing. It’s not just a spread; it’s a celebration in a jar, perfect for gifting or brightening up your own breakfast table. I promise once you make this jam, it’ll become your go-to for the season and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how straightforward and wholesome the ingredients are. Each one is essential—not just for flavor but for texture and color too—coming together to deliver a perfectly balanced jam.

• 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen): Their bright tartness forms the backbone of the jam’s holiday cheer.
• 2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen): Adds a delicate, sweet depth and wonderful color.
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved (fresh or frozen): Brings the jam’s natural sweetness and luscious texture.
• 1 medium orange, zested and juiced: Citrus zest and juice brighten the flavors and add complexity.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Helps balance sweetness and assists with natural pectin activation.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic warming spice that evokes the holidays instantly.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle earthiness and aromatic warmth.
• 1/2 cup water: Provides just enough moisture for the fruit to soften and break down.
• 4 cups granulated sugar: Keys in the sweetness and helps the jam set beautifully.
• 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid fruit pectin: Guarantees that perfect spreadable jam consistency every time.

How to Make The Best Christmas Cranberry-Raspberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your jars

Start by sterilizing your jars to ensure your jam stays fresh and safe. Boil them for 10 minutes or run them through a hot dishwasher cycle. Let them air dry completely—this step is crucial for preserving all the flavors you’re about to create.

Step 2: Combine the fruit and spices

In a large saucepan, toss together those gorgeous cranberries, raspberries, and strawberries with the orange zest and juices, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water. The vibrant medley sets the stage for that perfect holiday flavor.

Step 3: Cook until the fruit softens

Bring the mixture to medium heat and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries starting to pop, and the fruit softening into a luscious base for your jam. This is where the magic really begins.

Step 4: Mash or blend the fruit

Using a potato masher, crush the fruit to your desired texture—whether you like it chunky or somewhat smooth. For a silky finish, blend the mixture briefly. The choice is yours, and either way, it will be fantastic.

Step 5: Add sugar and boil

Stir in the granulated sugar and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a full rolling boil. Keep stirring constantly so the sugar dissolves evenly, and you avoid scorching. This is key to balancing sweetness with that fruity tartness.

Step 6: Incorporate the liquid pectin

Add your liquid fruit pectin and keep the jam boiling for an additional one to two minutes. Frequent stirring during this time ensures the jam thickens perfectly and helps to prevent any lumps.

Step 7: Perform the gel test

Drop a spoonful of jam onto a chilled plate. After a moment, push it with your finger—if it wrinkles, your jam has reached the perfect set. If not, keep boiling briefly and test again. Patience here pays off with that ideal spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Skim off foam

Using a spoon, carefully remove any foam floating on the surface. This step ensures your jam looks clear and inviting in the jar.

Step 9: Fill your jars

Ladle the hot jam into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Wipe the rims clean and seal tightly with lids. This process is essential for preserving freshness and flavor.

Step 10: Process jars for long-term storage

If you want to keep your jam for months, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This traditional canning step locks in freshness and lets you gift or stash your jam with confidence.

Step 11: Let jars rest

Allow the filled jars to sit undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature. This lets the jam finish setting and cool properly.

Step 12: Refrigerate after opening

Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 3 to 4 weeks for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve The Best Christmas Cranberry-Raspberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe

Garnishes

This jam shines when complemented with fresh herbs like a sprig of rosemary or thyme. Adding a few fresh cranberries or raspberries around your serving dish adds a festive touch and a pop of color that will wow your guests.

Side Dishes

The Best Christmas Cranberry-Raspberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe pairs beautifully with warm, buttery toast, flaky scones, or even drizzled over creamy brie cheese. It also lends itself as a festive condiment next to holiday roasts or charcuterie boards, bringing a sweet-tart burst that cuts through richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not jazz up your holiday entertaining by serving this luscious jam in mini glass jars tied with rustic twine and a festive tag? Or dollop it atop plain Greek yogurt and granola for an easy, elegant breakfast that feels like a treat. It’s also marvelous spread inside homemade thumbprint cookies for gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers after your holiday feasting, keep the jam tightly sealed in the fridge. It should maintain its bright flavor and thick texture for about 3 to 4 weeks, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy it in new ways.

Freezing

This jam freezes beautifully, making it easy to extend its shelf life. Just transfer it into freezer-safe containers—leaving a little space for expansion—and thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to indulge again.

Reheating

If your jam thickens too much in storage or after freezing, gently warm it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches a spreadable consistency. This quick step refreshes those lively flavors instantly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen berries for this jam?

Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen berries work wonderfully. Just make sure to thaw frozen fruit and drain excess liquid if needed before cooking.

Do I have to use liquid fruit pectin?

While you technically can make jam without pectin, using liquid fruit pectin guarantees the perfect set, especially with mixed berries. It helps achieve that luscious jam texture we all want.

Can I make this jam without cinnamon and nutmeg?

Yes! The spices add warmth and festive charm, but you can omit them if you prefer a purely fruity jam. It will still taste delicious.

How long does the jam last once opened?

Once opened and kept refrigerated, this jam will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 weeks. Always use clean utensils to avoid contamination.

Is boiling water bath processing necessary?

If you plan to store your jam for several months outside the fridge, yes! Boiling water bath processing seals the jars properly. If you’re making jam for immediate use or short-term refrigeration, you can skip this step.

Final Thoughts

Making The Best Christmas Cranberry-Raspberry-Strawberry Jam Recipe is truly a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with holiday magic and leaves you with a delicious treasure to enjoy or share. Whether you spread it on toast or give it as a thoughtful gift, this jam captures the spirit of the season in every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to make it part of your festive traditions!

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