Spiced Christmas Jam

Spiced Christmas Jam is a festive treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of mixed berries, apples, and orange. The warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice give it a delightful holiday taste. This jam not only makes a great spread for your morning toast but also adds a special touch to your holiday desserts.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this Spiced Christmas Jam for many reasons. First, it captures the spirit of the holidays with its spices and fruits. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require special skills. The colors and flavors remind you of Christmas gatherings and cozy winter nights. Plus, it makes a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.

HOW TO MAKE Spiced Christmas Jam

Making Spiced Christmas Jam is simple and enjoyable. You can create a delicious jam that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Gather the ingredients and follow the steps, and soon you will have a jar of this festive jam ready to enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Spiced Christmas Jam, you will need:

• A large pot for cooking the jam
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A jar for storing the jam
• A ladle for pouring
• A jar lifter (optional but helpful)

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 cups mixed berries
• 2 apples
• 1 orange
• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Nutmeg
• Ginger
• Allspice
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Optional: pectin for firmer set

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prep the Fruits: Start by washing the berries. Core and chop the apples into small pieces. Peel and chop the orange. Combine all the fruits in a large pot.
2. Simmer Fruits: Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Let the fruits cook until they start to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally.
3. Add Spices and Sugar: Once the fruits are soft, add the sugar and all the spices to the pot. Stir well to mix everything together.
4. Cook Until Thickened: Keep cooking the mixture on medium heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. Cook until the jam thickens, which could take 20-30 minutes.
5. Test for Setting: To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it’s ready.
6. Jar While Hot: Remove the pot from the heat. Use a ladle to fill clean jars with the hot jam. Leave a little space at the top.
7. Store for Up to 3 Weeks in the Fridge: Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature. Store them in the fridge.

 

HOW TO SERVE Spiced Christmas Jam

Spiced Christmas Jam is perfect for breakfast. Spread it on warm toast, pancakes, or waffles. You can also use it as a topping for cheesecake, yogurt, or ice cream. Pair it with cheese on a cheese board for a delightful appetizer.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Spiced Christmas Jam

You can store Spiced Christmas Jam in the fridge for up to three weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed jar to maintain freshness. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the jam. Use an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion, and label it with the date.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are some serving suggestions for Spiced Christmas Jam:

• Mix into oatmeal for a cozy breakfast.
• Spread on a croissant for a festive treat.
• Use as a filling for pastries or tarts.
• Serve with finger foods at holiday parties.
• Add a scoop on vanilla ice cream for dessert.

VARIATIONS

You can customize this Spiced Christmas Jam in different ways:

• Use Different Fruits: Swap berries for other fruits like peaches, pears, or apricots.
• Adjust the Spices: Experiment with more or less spice according to your taste.
• Add Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Use Honey: Replace sugar with honey for a different sweetness profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen berries work well. Just thaw them before using.

2. What if I don’t have pectin?

You can make this jam without pectin. It may take longer to thicken, but it will still be delicious.

3. How can I make the jam spicier?

Add more spices like ginger or allspice according to your taste preference.

4. Can I can this jam?

Yes, you can process the jam in a water bath canner for longer shelf life. Make sure to follow safe canning practices.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Spiced Christmas Jam

To save time, you can prepare the fruits a day before. Chop and mix them in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate. This way, when you are ready to make the jam, everything will be ready to go. You can also make larger batches ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the season or share them as gifts.

Enjoy your homemade Spiced Christmas Jam! It will surely bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.

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