Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam

As the holiday season approaches, the air in my cozy kitchen is filled with a symphony of delightful aromas, and one of the most cherished is without a doubt, Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam. This gem of a recipe was discovered years ago while my grandmother and I were sifting through her old recipe box, a treasure trove of memories and deliciousness. The moment we poured the simmering cranberries into jars, the room was instantly enveloped by the sweet and tart scent, reminiscent of family gatherings and festive cheer. As I ladled the ruby-red concoction, I could already imagine the joy it would bring to our holiday morning toast – warm, buttery, and brightened with the tang of cranberry. Trust me when I say, this jam isn’t just a treat; it’s a heartwarming hug in a jar that will have you dreaming of cozy holidays long after the last crumb has been savored!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Whip up a batch in under 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute gifts!
• Flavorful & Versatile: A marvelous balance of sweet and tart with cozy spices that elevate any dish.
• Healthy Boost: Packed with antioxidants from cranberries, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleasing: An instant hit with friends and family at any holiday gathering!
• Homemade Charm: There’s just something magical about gifting or enjoying homemade jam!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cranberries: The stars of the show! Make sure they’re bright and firm for the best flavor.
• 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the pot! Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
• 1 cup water: Helps create that lovely jammy texture—just enough to break down the cranberries.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A comforting whisper of warmth that enhances the natural flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, spiced depth that speaks to the holidays!
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice: A little nod to warmth and nostalgia; it’s like a hug for your taste buds!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Rinse the cranberries

Start by giving those beautiful, ruby-red cranberries a gentle rinse and remove any stems. This step is super important to ensure you have a clean, delicious base for your jam!

2. Combine the ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. The vibrant color and sweet aroma will get your heart singing!

3. Bring to a boil

Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a joyful boil while stirring occasionally. Watch as the cranberries start to pop and dance!

4. Simmer away

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stay nearby to enjoy the fragrant scent wafting through your kitchen as the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

5. Add those cozy spices

Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and allspice. Ah, that aroma! It’s the very essence of the holiday season.

6. Cool it down

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly—this is the moment to take a deep breath and enjoy your kitchen magic!

7. Jar it up

Transfer the jam to sterilized jars. Let it cool completely before sealing. You should feel that great sense of accomplishment!

8. Enjoy!

Store your magical creation in the refrigerator and spread on toast, muffins, or use it as a delightful gift. It’s sure to sprinkle joy everywhere it goes!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use fresh cranberries: Ensure the berries are bright and firm; discard any that are mushy or shriveled.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a more tart jam, reduce the sugar a bit!
• Watch the simmer: Stir often and keep an eye on it to prevent sticking—nobody wants burnt jam!
• Try sterilizing jars beforehand: It keeps your jam fresh longer, and you’ll get to feel so very professional!

Flavor Variations

Feel adventurous? Try swapping out some cranberries for chopped apples or pears for a sweeter twist! Or, add in a dollop of orange zest for a festive citrus zing that’ll brighten your mornings. A sprinkle of fresh ginger can also add a wonderful warmth. Experiment and have fun!

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is divine on toasted bread or buttery biscuits. Pair it with a soft brie cheese, or drizzle it over yogurt for a morning treat. For drinks, a cozy cup of hot cocoa or spiced mulled wine perfectly complements its fruity brightness!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Want to prepare ahead? This jam can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks. Keep it in sterilized jars with tight lids.

Leftovers

Leftover jam? No way! But if you ever find yourself with some, use it as a tongue-tantalizing topping for pancakes or as a filling in pastries and tarts.

Freezing

Absolutely! You can freeze this delightful jam. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.

Reheating

While this jam is best served at room temperature, if you’d like it warm, simply give it a quick stir in a small saucepan over low heat until it loosens up nicely.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly. Just give them a rinse and add a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! You can experiment with lower sugar options and substitute some with honey or a sugar alternative.

How do I know when the jam is done?
The jam is ready when it thickens and the cranberries are bursting—a simple taste test is always a good idea too!

Can I can this jam?
Yes! This recipe is great for canning. Just follow safe home canning guidelines to ensure a perfect preserve.

Final Thoughts

As I wrap up this delightful journey into the world of Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam, I hope you feel inspired to fill your kitchen with the warmth and magic of the holidays. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to create sweet memories with family and friends. So grab your apron, turn on your favorite holiday tunes, and let’s make some joy together in the kitchen! Remember, the best recipes are those that come from the heart. Happy cooking, my dear friends!