With the enchanting aroma of sweet strawberries and tart cranberries wafting through your home, it’s hard not to feel the warmth of the holiday spirit. This Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe is not just a delightful spread for your toast; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and savor every moment with loved ones. Imagine charming jars of this vibrant jam lining your holiday dessert table—what a perfect gift to share!
Why make this recipe
Christmas Jam is a cherished tradition that blends the flavors of the season into a jar of pure joy. The best part? You can let your crockpot work its magic while you go about your day, turning simple ingredients into a sweet, glossy concoction that brightens even the dreariest winter days. With minimal effort and a bit of love, you’ll create something extraordinary that captures the essence of the holidays.
How to make Christmas Jam
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds cranberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 ½ pounds strawberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Optional: zest of one orange or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions:
- In your trusty crockpot, add the cranberries, strawberries, both the granulated and brown sugars, along with the allspice, cinnamon, and ginger. Take a moment to inhale the sweetness and spice; this is where the magic begins.
- Gently stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. Cover and set the crockpot to high for four hours. Remember to stir once halfway through so that nothing sticks to the sides.
- When the scents begin to dance through your kitchen, it’s time for the next step! Use an immersion blender to achieve a jam-like consistency, pulsing just two or three times. Alternatively, you can blend in small batches with a countertop blender if that’s your preference.
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean jars. Wipe the rims to ensure a perfect seal and secure the lids lightly. Allow them to cool at room temperature, then pop them in the fridge overnight to set.
How to serve Christmas Jam
Spread this luscious jam on warm biscuits, scones, or toast for a luxurious breakfast treat that will make your mornings feel merry. It also makes a splendid topping for holiday cheeseboards and pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses. Or, simply dive in with a spoon on a quiet evening—it’s that good!
How to store Christmas Jam
Store your jars of Christmas Jam in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep for up to three weeks. If sealed properly, you can also freeze them for several months. Just remember to leave a little headspace in the jars if you’re freezing to account for expansion!
Tips to make Christmas Jam
- Make sure to taste the mix before blending; you can adjust the sweetness or add a hint of citrus with the optional orange zest or lemon juice.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, don’t blend it too much! A few whole cranberry pieces add lovely pops of flavor and color.
- For an extra festive touch, consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, like Grand Marnier or Amaretto, for a delightful hint of warmth.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with the base fruits! Add in raspberries for a berry trifecta, or switch up the spices to include a dash of nutmeg or cardamom. Every batch can tell a different story!
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen cranberries and strawberries?
Absolutely! Both frozen and fresh fruits work wonderfully in this jam; just make sure to thaw the frozen fruit slightly before adding it to the crockpot. -
Is it necessary to blend the mixture?
While blending creates a smooth consistency that’s typical for jams, you can certainly choose to leave it chunky if that’s your preference. -
How long can I keep the jam in the fridge?
If stored properly in sealed jars, this jam will last up to three weeks in the refrigerator.
Bringing together the vibrant flavors of cranberries and strawberries, this Christmas Jam is more than a simple recipe—it’s a taste of nostalgia, a reminder of cherished moments, and a way to make new memories with every bite. Start your holiday season with this delightful creation that invites warmth and joy into your kitchen. Happy cooking and merry making!
Christmas Jam
Ingredients
Method
- In your crockpot, add the cranberries, strawberries, both sugars, allspice, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Gently stir the mixture until well combined.
- Cover and set the crockpot to high for four hours, stirring once halfway through.
- Use an immersion blender to achieve a jam-like consistency, pulsing just a few times.
- Alternatively, blend in small batches with a countertop blender.
- Ladle the hot jam into clean jars, wipe the rims, and secure the lids lightly.
- Allow them to cool at room temperature and then refrigerate overnight to set.