This Christmas Jam Crockpot recipe is a delightful way to capture the essence of the holiday season in a jar. Bursting with the flavors of fresh cranberries and strawberries, this jam is sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Not only does it make a wonderful gift for friends and family, but it also adds a festive touch to your breakfast table or holiday desserts.
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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe
The charm of this Christmas Jam lies in its simplicity and convenience. Using a crockpot allows you to throw together your ingredients without fuss, letting the slow cooking process meld the flavors beautifully. With minimal prep time, this recipe provides a tasty and vibrant addition to your holiday celebrations.
Christmas Jam
Ingredients
Method
- Add the cranberries, strawberries, both sugars, and spices to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for four hours, stirring once halfway through.
- Blend the hot mixture using an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Pulse just two to three times for a jam-like texture.
- Ladle the hot jam into clean jars. Wipe the rims and secure the lids lightly. Cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate overnight before using.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!The combination of cranberries and strawberries offers a delicious balance of tartness and sweetness, making it perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into desserts, or enjoying straight from the jar. Plus, it’s a great way to preserve the flavors of the season!
How to Make Christmas Jam
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds cranberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 1/2 pounds strawberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Optional: zest of one orange or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Add the cranberries, strawberries, both sugars, and spices to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for four hours, stirring once halfway through.
- Blend the hot mixture using an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Pulse just two to three times for a jam-like texture.
- Ladle the hot jam into clean jars. Wipe the rims and secure the lids lightly. Cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate overnight before using.
How to Serve Christmas Jam
You can serve this Christmas Jam in a variety of delightful ways. Spread it over warm toast for a sweet breakfast, layer it in yogurt with granola for a festive snack, or use it as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. It also makes an excellent addition to holiday cheese boards, pairing beautifully with cream cheese or brie.
How to Store Christmas Jam
Store your homemade Christmas Jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Ensure that the jars are sealed tightly to maintain freshness. For longer storage, you can process the jars in a water bath canner to keep them shelf-stable. Properly canned jam can last for up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place.
Tips to Make Christmas Jam Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh cranberries and strawberries when they are in season. Frozen fruit works well too, but avoid any that are overly mushy.
- Adjust Sweetness: You can customize the sweetness of your jam by adjusting the sugar. Start with less if you prefer a less sweet jam and taste as you go.
- Add Citrus: Incorporating orange zest or lemon juice can enhance the flavor profile, giving your jam a nice citrusy zing.
Flavor Variations
Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the other spices for a deeper flavor.
- Berry Blend: You can substitute half of the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
- Herbal Touch: Infusing your jam with fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, can add a sophisticated twist that’s perfect for adult palates.
Pro Tips for Success
- Consistent Size: Make sure your fruit pieces are consistently sized to ensure even cooking and blending.
- Check Consistency: When blending, check for your desired jam consistency. You can always blend a bit more if you like it smoother.
- Sterilize Your Jars: Before canning, make sure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
FAQs About Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe
Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries and strawberries work perfectly in this crockpot jam recipe. They offer convenience and maintain flavor when fresh fruit is not available.
How can I tell if the jam is set?
Since this recipe does not use pectin, the jam’s texture is not the traditional jelly-like consistency. However, it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon once blended. If you prefer it thicker, you can cook it longer on the stove after blending.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also acts as a preservative. If you cut back significantly, the jam may not store as well, so consider using it quickly if you do.
Final Thoughts
The Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe is a simple yet delightful way to embrace the flavors of the season. Its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy holiday times, and the end product is sure to impress. With its vibrant color and rich taste, this jam will not only elevate your meals but also serve as a heartfelt gift. Celebrate the joys of holiday cooking with this magical recipe and enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts.