As I stood stirring the bubbling mixture in my slow cooker, the aroma of cinnamon and fresh cranberries filled the kitchen, transporting me straight to cozy holiday mornings. This Festive Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a burst of seasonal joy that will make your breakfasts feel special. Best of all, this recipe requires no added pectin, allowing the natural sweetness of the berries to shine. With minimal prep time involved and the slow cooker doing the hard work, you can easily whip up a batch that’s perfect for gifting or slathering on your favorite scones. Ready to add a homemade holiday touch to your table? Let’s dive into making this delightful jam together!

Why is this jam a holiday must-have?

Homemade Delight: Experience the joy of crafting your own spread. This easy recipe uses a slow cooker, making it a breeze to whip up.
No Pectin Needed: Enjoy all the rich flavors without added preservatives, allowing the fruits’ natural sweetness to shine.
Festive Flavors Galore: The combination of cranberries, strawberries, and warm spices creates a deliciously vibrant jam perfect for holiday gatherings.
Versatile Treat: Whether on toast, paired with cheese, or as a gift, this jam can brighten any holiday meal or occasion.
Quick and Convenient: With minimal prep and let-your-cooker-do-the-work magic, it fits perfectly into even the busiest holiday schedules. Looking for more holiday ideas? Try this Gingerbread Thumbprint Jam for a unique twist!

Christmas Jam Ingredients

• Get ready to create deliciousness!

For the Jam

Fresh Cranberries – Provides the base flavor; naturally contains pectin for thickening, making it ideal for this Christmas Jam without added pectin.
Fresh Strawberries – Adds sweetness and balance to the tart cranberries; you can also use frozen strawberries in a pinch.
Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm spice notes; could be replaced with nutmeg for an alternative holiday flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the holiday aroma; optional if you prefer a spicier jam without this.
Ground Cloves – Provides depth; use sparingly for a milder flavor.
Ground Ginger – Adds a subtle warmth; can be omitted if you’re not a fan.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the jam; substitute with white sugar in a 1:1 ratio if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Jam

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and 12 ounces of hulled strawberries. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger. Add 1 cup of brown sugar, then stir well to evenly mix all ingredients. The vibrant colors and fragrant spices will hint at the delicious Christmas Jam to come!

Step 2: Cook
Set your slow cooker to HIGH and cook the mixture for 4 hours without lifting the lid. The steam will help release the fruits’ natural juices, creating a thick and flavorful base for your Christmas Jam. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and everything becomes soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Blend
Once the cooking time is up, carefully transfer the jam mixture to a blender. Pulse gently until you reach your desired consistency, keeping some texture for character. Be cautious not to over-blend, as you want your Christmas Jam to remain distinct rather than turning into a smooth puree.

Step 4: Cool
After blending, allow the jam to cool at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. As it cools, you’ll notice it thickening even further, creating that perfect spreadable consistency. This step is essential for enhancing the flavors and ensuring the lovely sweet-tart balance of your Christmas Jam shines through.

Step 5: Store
Once cooled, transfer the Christmas Jam into clean, airtight jars or containers. Make sure to leave an inch of space at the top if you’re freezing them, allowing the jam to expand. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months to enjoy the holiday spirit all year round.

What to Serve with Festive Cranberry-Strawberry Christmas Jam

Bring holiday cheer to your table with delightful accompaniments that elevate your Christmas Jam experience.

Warm Scones: Soft and buttery, scones are the perfect canvas for your jam, soaking up its vibrant flavors while adding a tender texture.
Cream Cheese and Crackers: The smooth creaminess of cheese paired with crisp crackers creates a wonderful contrast, making for an easy appetizer that will impress your guests.
Toast with Butter: Simple yet comforting, a warm slice of toast with a smear of butter and a generous dollop of Christmas Jam brings the cozy feel of home to your mornings.
Cheeseboard: Add the jam to a festive cheeseboard featuring sharp cheeses and cured meats. The tangy-sweet jam brightens every bite, impressing your guests with balanced flavors.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits: Layer your jam with creamy yogurt and granola for a festive breakfast or dessert. The tartness of the jam cuts through the richness of the yogurt beautifully.
Mimosas: Toast to the season with a refreshing mimosa, where the fruity notes of the bubbling drink pair perfectly with the sweet and tart flavor profile of your Christmas Jam.
Charcuterie Spread: Spread your jam over prosciutto or salami on crusty bread for an elegant nibble. The savory notes enhance the jam’s sweetness, balancing each bite beautifully.
Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle your jam over fluffy pancakes or waffles for a sweet holiday twist. The festive colors and flavors create a breakfast masterpiece.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: Brighten brunch with a fruit salad topped with a spoonful of the jam, adding a festive kick to the natural sweetness of the fruit. This pairing will surely evoke a joyful response at the table.

Expert Tips for Christmas Jam

Select Quality Berries: Choose fresh, firm cranberries and strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid any that are mushy or bruised to ensure your Christmas Jam turns out delightful.
Watch the Sugar: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preferences and the tartness of your fruits. Remember, the sweetness will deepen during cooking, so start with less if unsure.
Cook Lid On: Keep your slow cooker lid on while cooking to retain moisture and flavor. Lifting it can lead to longer cooking times and a less rich jam.
Blend Wisely: Avoid over-blending the mixture; you want a bit of texture in your Christmas Jam. Pulse it just enough to break down the fruit into a spreadable consistency.
Store Smartly: Allow the jam to cool completely before sealing in jars. Proper cooling prevents moisture from forming inside and extends the freshness of your jam.
Flavor Exploration: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or add-ins like vanilla or rum. Each twist creates a unique Christmas Jam that can enhance your holiday festivities!

Make Ahead Options

This delightful Christmas Jam is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the fruit mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and 12 ounces of hulled strawberries with the spices and brown sugar in your slow cooker. Simply refrigerate it overnight, ensuring it’s covered, to maximize flavor retention. When you’re ready to enjoy the jam, just set your slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 4 hours, blending it as instructed and allowing it to cool. This way, you’ll have scrumptious Christmas Jam ready to spread on your morning scones with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Jam

Fridge: Store your homemade Christmas Jam in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This ensures the flavors remain fresh and vibrant for those cozy holiday mornings.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam in clean, freezer-safe jars. Leave an inch of space at the top to allow expansion; it can last up to 6 months while maintaining its sweet-tart goodness.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen jam, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, place the jar in warm water for a quick defrost before spreading it on your favorite treats.

Jarring Tips: Use sterilized jars for storage, ensuring your Christmas Jam lasts longer while keeping that delightful taste intact, ready to brighten up any breakfast or occasion!

Christmas Jam Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and tailor this festive jam to your taste buds or dietary needs!

Berry Swap: Replace cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile while adjusting sugar sweetness accordingly.
Mixing it up with any berry can lead to delightful surprises, allowing you to discover new favorites!
Sugar Alternatives: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness and distinct flavor.
This gives you the chance to add a hint of that lovely maple essence while keeping it sweet!
Spice it Up: Introduce ginger or allspice for an extra kick, or switch it up with a hint of vanilla extract for warmth.
A little dash of creativity can enhance the festive spirit in this jam, making it your own.
Nutty Texture: Stir in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch to your jam.
The contrast of textures can elevate your experience, adding a homey and cozy touch!
Boozy Twist: Consider adding a splash of brandy or bourbon for an adult version of this jam.
A little adult flair can create an enchanting taste that gives your jam a unique depth, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Citrus Zing: A few tablespoons of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the flavors and enhance the jam’s tartness.
This fresh twist makes perfect sense when you’re looking to add a holiday zing that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Chili Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
This daring move allows for an adventurous flavor experience that can bring your taste buds to life—perfect for food enthusiasts!
Vegan Jam: Substitute honey with agave syrup to create a fully vegan jam that everyone can enjoy.
Keeping the essence intact while catering to various diets means everyone can partake in the festive flavors!

For a delightful holiday twist, make sure to check out this scrumptious Gingerbread Thumbprint Jam, which adds a unique combination to your seasonal delights!

Christmas Jam Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh cranberries for the jam?
Absolutely! Look for cranberries that are firm, plump, and vibrant in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or are wrinkled, as these may indicate they’re past their prime. Fresh cranberries should bounce when you drop them—that’s a sign they’re perfect for your Christmas Jam!

How should I store leftover Christmas Jam?
For maximum freshness, store your homemade Christmas Jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s well-sealed to keep moisture out and flavors locked in. If you’d like to enjoy it longer, freeze the jam, leaving an inch of space at the top of the jars to allow for expansion.

Can I freeze Christmas Jam? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Jam easily! Transfer it to freezer-safe jars, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label the jars with the date and enjoy your delicious jam for up to 6 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge the jar in warm water for a quicker defrost.

What if my jam isn’t thickening properly?
Very! While this recipe relies on the natural pectin in fresh cranberries, if your jam isn’t thickening to your liking, you can try simmering it on the stovetop for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid further. Adding a few teaspoons of lemon juice can also help enhance the process and improve the overall flavor.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of when making this jam?
It’s important to consider that cranberries can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those with sensitivities to other berries. The spices used are generally mild, but if you or your guests have specific allergies (like nut allergies), ensure to double-check all ingredient labels and make substitutes accordingly.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch and don’t have fresh strawberries on hand, frozen strawberries work beautifully in this Christmas Jam recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the mixture. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of your jam!