When the holiday season rolls around, there’s something undeniably festive about the aroma of simmering cranberries wafting through your kitchen. This Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam is a vibrant, luscious concoction that’s just perfect for brightening up breakfast or for gift-giving. Not only does it capture the essence of winter with its tart and sweet flavors, but it also adds a touch of homemade charm to your holiday table. Whether slathered on toast or served atop a cheese platter, this jam is bound to become a tradition in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This cranberry jam doesn’t just stand out for its flavor but also for its versatility and ease. It’s quick to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients, yet it yields a festive and gourmet product. Imagine sharing a jar with loved ones during the holidays, all while knowing that you prepared it from scratch. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, coupled with the warm notes of cinnamon, makes this spread an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or a cozy breakfast treat.
“The Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam made my breakfast spreads a hit! Everyone loved the unique flavor and festive colors!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Making this jam is as straightforward as it is satisfying. You start by combining fresh cranberries with sugar, water, lemon juice, and aromatic spices. The magic happens as the cranberries cook down, bursting open and transforming into a thick, jammy consistency that is simply irresistible. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a jar full of holiday smiles.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to whip up your Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam:
- 4 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients collide fantastically to create that classic sweet-tart profile. You can experiment by swapping in different spices or sweeteners if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cranberries to burst open and the mixture to thicken.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra depth of flavor.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars, and allow it to cool completely before sealing.
- Store any extras in the refrigerator for future enjoyment.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
The joy of Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam lies in its versatility. Spread a generous layer on freshly toasted bread, use it as a filling for pastries, or drizzle it over a warm brie cheese for an elegant appetizer that will impress your holiday guests. For a delightful breakfast treat, spoon it over pancakes or waffles.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your cranberry jam fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy its festive flavors throughout the holiday season. If you have leftovers and want to save them for later, consider freezing the jam in small portions. Just make sure to use clean, sterilized jars or freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Always choose fresh cranberries that are firm and plump. Discard any soft or shriveled ones.
- For a smoother jam, you can blend the mixture after cooking, but the texture of the whole cranberries offers a lovely homemade appeal.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness—add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter jam, or try reducing it for a more tart flavor.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment! Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrus twist, or incorporate spices like ginger or nutmeg for warmth. If you’re looking for a holiday-inspired jam, consider adding chopped apples or pears for extra sweetness and texture.
Common Questions
How long does it take to make this jam?
Overall, you can expect the jam to take about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but do not thaw them before cooking to prevent excess liquid.
What’s the best way to sanitize jars for storage?
You can sanitize jars by washing them in hot, soapy water or placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Can I substitute brown sugar for white sugar?
Absolutely! Brown sugar will give your jam a richer caramel flavor, which pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries.
There’s something heartwarming about making your own jam, especially during the festive season. This Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam not only makes for a delightful treat but also a thoughtful gift. So gather your ingredients and get ready to fill your home with the lovely scents of the holidays!
Print
Sweet Christmas Cranberry Jam
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant, luscious cranberry jam perfect for brightening up breakfast or for gift-giving during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the cranberries burst open and the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars and allow to cool completely before sealing.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Can also be frozen in small portions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American