Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe
This Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of strawberries for a delightful holiday spread. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that will fill your home with warmth and festive cheer. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with family, this jam highlights the essence of the season.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe
You’ll love this Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe because it brings together the holiday flavors that everyone adores. With a simple list of ingredients and the convenience of a crockpot, this recipe is ideal for busy hosts.
Christmas Jam
Ingredients
Fruits
- 1.5 pounds cranberries, fresh or frozen Wash before use
- 1.5 pounds strawberries, fresh or frozen Wash before use
Sugars
- 1 cup granulated sugar Adjust sweetness as desired
- 1.25 cups light brown sugar Adjust sweetness as desired
Spices
- 2 teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Optional for added zest
Optional Ingredients
- 1 zest zest of one orange For additional flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- 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 with an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Pulse just two to three times for a jam-like texture.
- Ladle hot jam into clean jars. Wipe rims and secure lids lightly. Allow to cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate overnight before using.
Notes
The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, allowing the tart cranberries and sweet strawberries to shine. Additionally, the spices add a warm and inviting aroma that sets the mood for your holiday celebrations. Whether you spread it on toast, use it as a dip, or mix it into your favorite recipes, this jam is sure to be a hit!
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 with an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Pulse just two to three times for a jam-like texture.
- Ladle hot jam into clean jars. Wipe rims and secure lids lightly. Allow to cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate overnight before using.
How to Serve Christmas Jam
Serve this Christmas Jam spread over warm biscuits or toast for breakfast. It also makes an excellent addition to cheese boards, pairing beautifully with cream cheese or soft cheeses like Brie. You can even use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, adding a festive flair to your desserts. The vibrant colors and rich flavors will surely impress your guests during holiday gatherings.
How to Store Christmas Jam
To store your Christmas Jam, make sure the jars are sealed properly. Keep them in the refrigerator, where they will last for about two to three weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the jam. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the jar or container, as the jam will expand when frozen. Properly sealed jars can last for several months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Christmas Jam Perfect
- Be sure to wash the cranberries and strawberries thoroughly before use. Removing any dirt or debris will enhance the flavor.
- Adjust the level of sweetness by using more or less sugar. This can depend on your taste preference and the natural sweetness of the fruits.
- For a zestier flavor, try adding orange zest or lemon juice. Both ingredients can elevate the overall taste.
Flavor Variations
You can customize your Christmas Jam by trying different fruit combinations. For instance, add raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam. You could also experiment with spices—try nutmeg or cloves for a different flavor profile. If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of chili powder for a hint of heat.
Pro Tips for Success
- Ensure your crockpot is large enough to hold the fruit mixture without overflowing. A 4-quart or larger crockpot is recommended.
- Stirring the jam halfway through cooking allows even heat distribution and prevents it from sticking to the sides.
- Use jars with tight-fitting lids to keep the jam fresh for as long as possible.
FAQs About Christmas Jam
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for this recipe without any issues. There’s no need to thaw them before adding them to the crockpot, as they will cook down just fine.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences. However, remember that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with the preservation and texture of the jam.
How can I ensure my jam has a good consistency?
Blending the jam only a few times will help achieve the desired texture. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip the blending step or blend less. Make sure to cook it long enough for the fruits to break down and combine.
Final Thoughts
The Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season. With its easy preparation and the enjoyable aroma that fills your home, this jam makes a meaningful addition to your holiday traditions. Whether you’re sharing it with family or gifting it to friends, this jam is sure to evoke warm feelings and delicious memories for years to come. Try it out this holiday season and experience the joy it brings!
