The holiday season is all about warmth, joy, and delightful flavors! This Spiced Christmas Jam is the perfect way to capture the essence of the season in a jar. Made with a blend of fruits and aromatic spices, this jam will add a festive touch to your breakfast table and make a lovely gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed fruit (apples, pears, cranberries)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit
Wash, peel, and chop the mixed fruit into small pieces. Combine them in a large saucepan.
2. Cook the Mixture
Add the sugar, lemon juice, spices, and water to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to simmer.
3. Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let the jam simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The fruit should break down, and the mixture will thicken.
4. Check for Doneness
To check if the jam is ready, place a spoonful on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s done. If it’s still too runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
5. Jar the Jam
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Seal the jars with lids while still hot.
6. Cool and Store
Let the jars cool to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator. The jam can be enjoyed immediately but tastes even better after a few days as the flavors meld.
Perfect for Gifting!
This Spiced Christmas Jam makes a fantastic gift! Decorate the jars with festive ribbons or labels for a personal touch. Pair it with a loaf of homemade bread or scones for a delightful holiday treat.
Enjoy It In Many Ways!
Spread this jam on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a filling for pastries. The warm spices will surely bring the holiday spirit to your kitchen and beyond!