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Easy Merry Christmas Jam

A bright, spiced, and sweet-tart jam made from cranberries and strawberries, perfect for holiday breakfasts and gifting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruits
  • 2 cups Cranberries, fresh or frozen Adds tartness and helps the jam set.
  • 2 cups Strawberries, fresh or frozen Brings sweetness and jam flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange zest Adds brightness and holiday vibe.
  • 1/2 cup Orange juice Enhances flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Balances sweetness.
Sweeteners and Spices
  • 2 cups Granulated sugar Sweetens and thickens.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Warm spice to enhance flavor.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Add warmth.
  • 1 pinch Cloves Gives a cozy hug effect.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Optional, adds a lovely finish.
  • 1 pinch Salt Enhances all flavors.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse cranberries and strawberries. Hull and chop the strawberries.
  2. Zest the orange and then juice it.
  3. Keep clean jars ready on the counter.
Cooking
  1. In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine cranberries, strawberries, sugar, orange juice and zest, lemon juice, spices, and salt.
  2. Bring to medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. The cranberries will pop as they cook.
  3. Use a potato masher to break down the fruit to your preferred texture.
  4. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 25 minutes, stirring often to avoid scorching.
  5. Test for doneness by scooping a little on a chilled spoon—if it mounds and holds shape, it’s done.
Jarring and Cooling
  1. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla if desired.
  2. Ladle hot jam into clean jars, leaving space at the top.
  3. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.

Notes

This jam can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months. Great for gifting.