Introduction

Get ready to make an incredible CHRISTMAS RED JAM that everyone will love! This recipe combines simple ingredients with great flavor to create something truly special. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Follow along as we show you how to make this wonderful recipe step by step!

Christmas Red Jam (Mixed Berry & Citrus)

A festive, vibrant red jam that’s perfect for holiday gift-giving or for spreading on toast, scones, or pairing with cheese. It’s a beautiful blend of berries with a hint of warm spice.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25-30 mins | Chill Time: Overnight | Makes: About 4-5 half-pint (8 oz) jars

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Ingredients

· 4 cups mixed red berries (fresh or frozen), such as:
· Strawberries (hulled and quartered)
· Raspberries
· Cherries (pitted and halved)
· Cranberries (fresh or frozen)
· 1 small apple, peeled and grated (natural pectin source)
· 3 cups granulated sugar
· ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
· 1 tsp lemon zest
· 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
· ½ tsp ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick
· ¼ tsp ground cardamom (optional)
· 1 (1.75 oz) package powdered fruit pectin (optional, for a firmer set)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Fruit

· If using fresh berries, wash and hull/chop as needed. If using frozen, no need to thaw.
· In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine all berries, grated apple, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
· If using powdered pectin, mix it with ¼ cup of the sugar and stir into the fruit.

2. Cook the Jam

· Bring the fruit mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
· Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until berries break down and mixture thickens slightly. Skim off any foam that rises.
· Add the remaining sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using). Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
· Return to a rolling boil. Boil hard for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
· Optional plate test: Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. Let it sit for a minute; if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.

3. Jar the Jam

· Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract if using.
· For immediate use: Let jam cool slightly, then transfer to clean jars or containers. Cool completely, then refrigerate.
· For canning (shelf-stable):
· Ladle hot jam into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
· Wipe rims, place lids and rings on fingertip-tight.
· Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
· Remove and let cool on a towel for 24 hours. Check seals before storing.

4. Set & Store

· Jam will continue to thicken as it cools. For best texture, let it set overnight before using.
· Label and date your jars!

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Success Tips

· Pectin Power: Apples and cranberries are high in natural pectin. For a softer set, omit extra pectin.
· Don’t Overcook: Jam will thicken more as it cools. Overcooking can make it rubbery.
· Acid Balance: Lemon juice adds brightness and helps with preservation and set.
· Sterilize Jars: Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water and rinse well, or run through a dishwasher cycle before filling.

Storage

· Refrigerated: Keeps for up to 3 weeks.
· Canned (Sealed): Keeps in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
· Freezer: Store in airtight containers (leave ½-inch space) for up to 6 months. Thaw in refrigerator.

Flavor Variations

· Christmas Spice: Add 2 star anise pods or ½ tsp ground allspice.
· Orange-Cranberry: Use orange juice and zest instead of lemon, and double the cranberries.
· Bourbon-Vanilla: Stir in 1-2 tbsp bourbon with the vanilla.
· Rosemary-Infused: Add 1-2 small fresh rosemary sprigs while cooking; remove before jarring.
· Low-Sugar: Use a low/no-sugar pectin and reduce sugar to taste.

How to Use Your Christmas Red Jam

· Spread on biscuits, scones, toast, or pancakes.
· Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt.
· Glaze for ham or roasted chicken.
· Topping for cheesecake or ice cream.
· Filling for thumbprint cookies or layer cakes.
· Pair with a cheese board (brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar).

Enjoy making (and gifting) this taste of the holidays!

Conclusion

Congratulations on making this delicious CHRISTMAS RED JAM! We hope you and your loved ones enjoyed every bite of this flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and we’re confident it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

🍽️ Looking for more amazing recipes? Browse through our collection of delicious dishes on YumPost! From quick weeknight dinners to impressive desserts, we have something for every taste and occasion.

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