As the holiday season approaches, there’s a familiar feeling of joy in the kitchen—one that brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. I can still recall the twinkling lights, the laughter, and of course, that delightful waft of something sweet simmering away. This Christmas Jam, made effortlessly in my trusty crockpot, captures all of that nostalgia and brings a burst of seasonal flavor in every spoonful.
Imagine sweet, juicy strawberries and vibrant cranberries mingling with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice. The aroma alone will draw friends and family to your kitchen, eager to find out what you’re cooking up. Not only is this jam incredibly easy to whip up, but it also makes for thoughtful homemade gifts or a charming addition to your festive brunch spread. The best part? The crockpot does all the heavy lifting while you bask in holiday cheer, leaving you with more time to create lasting memories. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this magical blend of flavors that’s bound to become a holiday staple!
Why is Christmas Jam Crockpot a must-try?
Effortless preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Deliciously aromatic: The warming spices transform your kitchen into a cozy haven, making the cooking process just as delightful as the end result.
Versatile uses: Spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a festive topping for desserts—you’ll want this jam on everything!
Gift-worthy charm: Present jars of this homemade jam to friends and family, spreading holiday cheer with a personal touch.
Memorable flavors: The combination of cranberries and strawberries creates a unique taste that will make your festive gatherings truly unforgettable.
Relax and enjoy the sweeter side of the season with this delightful treat; it may just become your new favorite holiday tradition!
Christmas Jam Crockpot Ingredients
Get ready to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents!
For the Jam Base
• Cranberries – 1 ½ pounds; these vibrant berries add a tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness.
• Strawberries – 1 ½ pounds; fresh or frozen strawberries bring a juicy sweetness ideal for holiday flavors.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 cup; this classic sweetener helps to balance the acidity of the fruits in your Christmas jam.
• Light Brown Sugar – 1 ¼ cups; it adds a deep caramel essence, enriching the flavor of your homemade jam.
For the Spices
• Ground Allspice – 2 teaspoons; this warm spice lifts your jam with a delightful hint of clove and nutmeg.
• Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon; a warm, aromatic addition that invites that cozy holiday spirit.
• Ground Ginger – ½ teaspoon; adds a little zing and works wonders with the other spices.
Optional Add-Ins
• Zest of One Orange or Lemon Juice – Optional; this brightens the flavor profile, making your Christmas jam even more refreshing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to crafting a Christmas jam crockpot delight that will fill your home with warmth and joy!
How to Make Christmas Jam Crockpot
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Combine Ingredients: Add cranberries, strawberries, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and spices into your crockpot. Stir gently to ensure everything is well mixed and coated.
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Cook: Cover your crockpot and set it to high. Cook for four hours, stirring once halfway through. The mixture should bubble sweetly and take on a vibrant color.
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Blend: Carefully blend the hot mixture using an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Pulse for just two to three times to achieve a jam-like texture while keeping some fruit chunks.
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Jar the Jam: Ladle the hot jam into clean jars, making sure to wipe the rims to remove any residue. Secure the lids lightly before allowing them to cool at room temperature.
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Chill: Refrigerate your jars overnight for the best flavor infusion and to thicken the jam perfectly before enjoying.
Optional: Serve with fresh bread or use it as a topping for pancakes.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Jam Crockpot
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Use Quality Ingredients: Choose ripe, fresh strawberries and cranberries for the best flavor. Frozen fruit can be a convenient option, but fresh will elevate your Christmas jam.
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Watch the Sugar: Adjust the granulated and brown sugars according to your taste preference. Too much sugar can overpower the natural tartness of the cranberries.
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Don’t Over-Blend: When blending the mixture, pulse only two to three times. This preserves some fruit chunks for texture, making your Christmas jam more delightful.
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Keep it Clean: Ensure your jars are sterilized before pouring in the hot jam. This prevents any contamination and helps your jam last longer.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorites. A splash of nutmeg or even a hint of vanilla can bring a unique twist to your Christmas jam.
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Storage Tips: Store your tightly sealed jars in the refrigerator, where they can last for several weeks. Enjoy making this delicious holiday treat whenever you like!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Jam Crockpot preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can combine the cranberries, strawberries, sugars, and spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing the mixture in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to whip up the jam, cook as directed, blend, and jar it. For best quality, refrigerate the finished jars overnight; this will deepen the flavors and ensure the right consistency. By prepping in advance, you’ll have a delicious, homemade Christmas Jam ready to impress with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying the holiday spirit!
Christmas Jam Crockpot Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful Christmas Jam, creating flavors and textures that speak to your taste buds.
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Spiced Rum: Add 1-2 tablespoons of spiced rum during the last hour of cooking for an adult twist and a warm, festive aroma.
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Citrus Burst: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange directly into the mixture for a zesty brightness that complements the sweet berries perfectly.
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Berry Blend: Swap out half the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries to create a vibrant mixed berry jam brimming with color and flavor.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that evokes cozy cabin vibes during the holiday season.
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Chili Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño to infuse a hint of heat that balances the sweetness of the jam.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, after blending for a surprising texture that elevates your jam experience.
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Vanilla Infusion: Add a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract during the last half hour of cooking, providing a warm, comforting aroma that’s hard to resist.
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Fruit Forward: Enhance sweetness and texture by including 1-2 sliced ripe bananas in the cooking process, adding creaminess to the final product.
Embrace the festive spirit and enjoy modifying this Christmas Jam to match your culinary preferences—your creative touch will make it even more special!
Storage Tips for Christmas Jam Crockpot
Room Temperature: Allow the jam to cool at room temperature before sealing jars; this helps preserve its freshness for a couple of hours.
Fridge: Store your opened jars in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Make sure they’re tightly sealed to maintain flavor and freshness.
Freezer: If you want to keep your Christmas jam for longer, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
Reheating: To warm up the jam, simply scoop the desired amount into a saucepan and heat gently on low, stirring occasionally until warm. Enjoy on toast or as a topping!
What to Serve with Christmas Jam Crockpot?
As your Christmas Jam simmers away, envision a festive table filled with delightful pairings to enhance your holiday spread.
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Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, these biscuits are perfect for slathering on your delicious jam, creating a sweet and savory treat.
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Cream Cheese Toast: Spread a thick layer of cream cheese on your favorite bread and top it with Christmas Jam for a delightful contrast of flavors.
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Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and a generous drizzle of the jam for a vibrant and refreshing breakfast option that screams holiday cheer.
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Cheese Board: Add your Christmas Jam to a charcuterie board featuring creamy cheeses. The sweet-tart flavor plays beautifully with rich, savory bites.
Imagine guests crafting their unique combinations at your gathering. It’s all about celebrating flavor and togetherness!
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Pancakes or Waffles: Serve this jam as a scrumptious topping drizzled over warm pancakes or waffles, turning breakfast into a special holiday event.
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Mulled Wine: Warm spiced wine as a holiday beverage pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of your jam, creating a comforting atmosphere.
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Chocolate Cake: Top slices of moist chocolate cake with a smear of this vibrant jam. It provides a wonderfully unexpected burst of flavor!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop up some vanilla ice cream and drizzle with warm Christmas Jam. The contrast of temperatures and flavors will delight your taste buds!
Let the festivities begin as you share these mouthwatering ideas alongside your Christmas Jam Crockpot, making your celebrations even sweeter!
Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cranberries and strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select fresh cranberries that are bright and firm without any dark spots or blemishes. The strawberries should be ripe, juicy, and have a vibrant red color. If using frozen fruit, ensure they are unsweetened to control the sweetness of your jam.
How should I store my Christmas jam, and how long will it last?
After preparing your jam, allow it to cool at room temperature, then seal it in airtight jars. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. To extend its life, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to 6 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using!
Can I freeze Christmas jam for later use?
Very! To freeze your Christmas jam, simply pour it into airtight containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes. Label your containers with the date, and it should keep well for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge for 12-24 hours, then stir before serving.
What should I do if my jam is too runny?
If your jam doesn’t set as you’d like, don’t worry! Simply return it to the crockpot, and let it cook on high for an additional 30-60 minutes, stirring frequently. This will help evaporate excess moisture, thickening your concoction without compromising flavor.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of?
Indeed! This Christmas Jam Crockpot recipe features cranberries and strawberries, both of which are generally safe for most individuals, including those with common allergies. However, be cautious about sugar content—diabetics may need to monitor their intake. If sharing with pets, ensure no xylitol is present in any sweeteners, as it can be harmful to dogs.
What can I serve with this Christmas jam?
The more the merrier! This jam is incredibly versatile; serve it on toast, swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal, or use it as a topping for pancakes and desserts. It also makes a delightful companion for cheese platters, adding a festive touch to any holiday gathering. Enjoy the festivity!
Crockpot Christmas Jam: Sweeten Your Holidays with Ease
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Ingredients: Add cranberries, strawberries, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and spices into your crockpot. Stir gently to coat.
- Cook: Cover and set the crockpot to high. Cook for four hours, stirring once halfway through.
- Blend: Blend the hot mixture using an immersion blender or in batches until desired texture.
- Jar the Jam: Ladle hot jam into clean jars, wiping rims to remove residue. Lightly secure lids.
- Chill: Refrigerate jars overnight for best flavor infusion and to thicken before enjoying.