Christmas Red Berry Jam Recipe
Introduction
This Christmas Red Jam is a festive and flavorful spread, perfect for brightening up your holiday breakfasts or gifts. Made with fresh berries and warm spices, it captures the spirit of the season in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh berries (such as cranberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon citrus zest (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 packet pectin
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and prepare the berries, removing any stems or leaves.
- Step 2: In a large saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, water, and citrus zest.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Step 4: Add the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and pectin. Simmer the jam, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Step 5: Once the jam thickens and coats the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 6: Transfer the jam into sterilized jars, seal them tightly, and allow them to cool completely before refrigerating.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of berries for a richer flavor and deeper color.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract after cooking for extra warmth.
- For a smoother texture, mash the berries slightly before cooking.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the cinnamon and cloves to 1/4 teaspoon each.
Storage
Store the jam in sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the jam on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries for this jam?
Yes, frozen berries work well. Just thaw them slightly and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a runny jam.
Do I need to use pectin in this recipe?
Pectin helps the jam set properly and gives it a lovely spreadable texture. If you omit it, the jam may be thinner and take longer to thicken.
PrintChristmas Red Berry Jam Recipe
A festive and flavorful Christmas Red Jam made with fresh berries, warm spices, and a hint of citrus zest. Perfect for spreading on toast, gifting during the holidays, or adding a burst of seasonal flavor to your favorite desserts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups of jam (roughly 1 pint) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh berries (such as cranberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon citrus zest (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 packet pectin
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Berries: Wash and prep the berries thoroughly, removing any stems, leaves, or debris to ensure a clean, fresh jam base.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the fresh berries, sugar, water, and optional citrus zest to build the jam’s foundational flavors.
- Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar evenly and prevent burning.
- Add Spices and Pectin: Stir in the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and pectin. Continue simmering the mixture, allowing it to thicken and develop rich flavor and texture.
- Check Consistency: Simmer until the jam reaches the desired thickness, which can be tested by seeing if it coats the back of a spoon effectively.
- Cool and Jar: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Then, carefully transfer it into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for optimal preservation.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Citrus zest is optional but adds a lovely brightness to the jam.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
- You can adjust sugar quantity based on sweetness preference but note it also acts as a preservative.
- Pectin powder is key for achieving the right jam consistency; use as directed.
- Refrigerate after jar seals to keep the jam fresh for up to 3 weeks.
Keywords: Christmas jam, berry jam, holiday jam, spiced jam, homemade jam, cranberry raspberry jam, fruit preserves
