Taste of Christmas Jam
Taste of Christmas Jam is a delightful spread that captures the flavors of the holiday season. This sweet, tangy jam combines the tartness of cranberries with the warm spices and bright notes of orange. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on desserts, or even giving as a gift. This jam will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma and bring a festive feel to your table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Taste of Christmas Jam is an easy way to add a homemade touch to your holiday celebrations. It is simple to prepare and uses fresh, seasonal ingredients. This jam is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it throughout the year, making it a great way to preserve the flavors of Christmas and share happiness with friends and family.
How to Make Taste of Christmas Jam
Making Taste of Christmas Jam is a straightforward process that requires just a few steps.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
Directions
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal. Let it cool before storing in the fridge.
How to Serve Taste of Christmas Jam
Taste of Christmas Jam can be served in many delicious ways. Spread it on warm toast or bagels for a festive breakfast. Use it as a filling in pastries or as a topping for ice cream and yogurt. You can also serve it alongside cheeses and crackers for a great holiday snack. The possibilities are endless!
How to Store Taste of Christmas Jam
To store your Taste of Christmas Jam, keep it in a sealed, sterilized jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers. Thaw it in the fridge before using.
Tips to Make Taste of Christmas Jam
- If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender after cooking to blend the cranberries to your desired consistency.
- Taste the jam as it cooks, and feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your preference.
- Always use sterilized jars to ensure that your jam stays fresh and safe.
Variation
You can add other fruits like apples or pears to blend flavors. A splash of lemon juice can also enhance the taste and balance the sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this jam?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure they are not clumped together before use.
2. How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is ready when cranberries have burst, and the mixture has thickened. You can also do a "plate test" by dropping a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it holds its shape, it’s ready.
3. Can I can this jam for long-term storage?
Yes, you can follow proper canning techniques to preserve the jam for longer periods. Ensure the jars are sterilized and store in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy making your Taste of Christmas Jam and share the joy of Christmas flavors with everyone!
