Every December, as cinnamon, cloves, and oranges begin to scent the air, I find myself craving the comforting ritual of making my favorite spiced Christmas jam recipe. This jam is pure holiday magic in a jar. It combines seasonal fruits, cozy spices, and just the right touch of citrus to bring balance and brightness. Whether you’re slathering it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or giving it as a heartfelt homemade gift, it delivers a little moment of warmth with every bite.
This spiced Christmas jam recipe fits beautifully into your festive food traditions. It’s great for breakfast spreads, afternoon tea tables, and even as a surprise layer in thumbprint cookies. If you’re someone who loves to craft edible gifts for friends and family, this jam adds a rustic, nostalgic charm to any holiday basket.
And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home with pantry staples and fresh or frozen fruit.
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Why This Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Holiday Kitchen
This spiced Christmas jam recipe stands out not just for its bold seasonal flavors, but also for its adaptability. You can use cranberries, apples, pears, or plums or mix and match whatever you have on hand. The recipe brings out the best in each fruit with a gentle simmer and a swirl of warming spices. Think cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and even a whisper of star anise.
Unlike store-bought versions that can be overly sweet or artificially flavored, this homemade jam lets the fruit shine while offering a more complex, spiced backdrop. The addition of orange zest and juice elevates the whole batch with brightness that balances the depth of the spices.
What really makes this spiced Christmas jam recipe a keeper is its versatility. It’s vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and can be made with lower sugar or even honey or maple syrup if you prefer a more natural sweetener. You can even make it in bulk and preserve it for up to a year, making it the perfect prep-ahead gift or pantry staple.
And if you’re short on time during the holiday rush, you’ll love that this jam doesn’t require pectin. It naturally thickens as it cooks thanks to the fruit’s natural pectins and a touch of lemon juice.
Recipe Card
Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe
6
servings15
minutes25
minutes45
kcalSpiced Christmas Jam
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Ingredients
2 cups fresh cranberries
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (e.g., Granny Smith)
2 cups peeled and diced oranges
3 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup water
1 packet pectin (optional, for thicker jam)
Directions
- Prepare the fruits: Combine cranberries, apples, and oranges in a large pot. Add water and simmer over medium heat until fruits are soft, about 10 minutes/
- Blend: Use a hand blender to puree the mixture until smooth or leave it chunky for texture.
- Add sugar and spices: Stir in sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Thicken the jam: Add pectin if desired and boil for another 5 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract at the end.
- Jar the jam: Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of space at the top. Seal and process in a water bath for 10 minutes to ensure shelf-stability.
- Cool and store: Let jars cool at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months or refrigerate after opening.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by using less sugar or adding honey instead.
- Use organic fruits for a more natural flavor.
- For an even more festive twist, add a splash of spiced rum!
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Pro Tips for Holiday Jam-Making Success
- Balance the flavors: If you prefer a tangier jam, reduce the sugar slightly or add extra cranberries. For a sweeter version, use sweeter apple varieties like Fuji or Gala.
- Spices to taste: Play with the spice levels to suit your preference. Add more cinnamon for warmth or a hint of star anise for depth.
- No pectin? No problem: Simmer the jam a little longer for a natural thickening process from the fruit’s own pectin.
- Presentation matters: Dress up jars with festive ribbons and labels to make them perfect for gifting.
Variations to Make This Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe Your Own
Cranberry Orange Spiced Jam
Cranberries are naturally high in pectin, making them ideal for a jam with great texture and tang. Add orange zest and juice, plus a cinnamon stick and cloves. The tartness balances the sugar beautifully, and it pairs perfectly with roasted meats or sharp cheeses.
Apple Cinnamon Holiday Jam
Use peeled, diced apples simmered with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. This version feels like apple pie in a jar. It’s especially nice spooned over pancakes or served alongside pork tenderloin.
Plum and Star Anise Christmas Jam
Ripe purple plums provide deep color and rich flavor. Star anise adds a licorice-like warmth that makes this version sophisticated and slightly exotic. It makes a beautiful spread for scones or an elegant glaze for baked brie.
Spiced Fig and Orange Jam
For a jam with more bite and texture, chopped dried or fresh figs are simmered with orange peel, cinnamon, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This is a perfect companion for charcuterie boards or crusty bread with goat cheese.
FAQs
Yes! Once cooled, you can transfer the jam to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
Properly canned jam can last up to 12 months in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks.
Absolutely, but use a larger pot to prevent spills. Ensure you stir consistently for even cooking.
Yes! The sweet, fruity flavor with mild spices makes it a favorite among children, too.
Health Benefits of Spiced Christmas Jam
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries and oranges are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system during the colder months.
- Supports Digestive Health: Apples provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The spices, like cinnamon and cloves, are known for their anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties.
- Low in Calories: Compared to store-bought jams, this homemade version is a healthier, preservative-free choice.
This Spiced Christmas Jam Recipe is Pure Holiday Joy
Making this spiced Christmas jam recipe is one of those traditions that instantly brings me into the holiday spirit. The aroma of simmering fruit and warm spices fills the kitchen with comfort and nostalgia. Every spoonful captures the essence of the season rich, fruity, slightly tart, and kissed with cinnamon and cloves.
Whether you spread it on a warm croissant, use it as a glaze for roast meats, or gift it in pretty little jars, this jam adds a homemade touch that store-bought just cannot match. It’s budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and a thoughtful way to share joy through food.
If you enjoyed this spiced Christmas jam recipe, why not try our Homemade Cranberry Sauce? It’s another delightful holiday recipe that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or baked brie!
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