Simple Spiced Christmas Jam

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There’s something so deeply nostalgic about making jam during the holidays. The scent of simmering fruit, the warmth of cinnamon and cloves wafting through the house—it instantly pulls me into the spirit of Christmas. This Simple Spiced Christmas Jam is one of those recipes I come back to year after year. It’s easy to make, packed with cozy holiday flavor, and perfect for gifting.

I started making this jam when I was looking for edible gift ideas that felt personal but didn’t require days in the kitchen. What I love about this recipe is how it combines the tart brightness of berries with the warm hug of winter spices. Every spoonful tastes like Christmas morning, and it’s incredibly versatile—perfect on toast, spooned over yogurt, or even paired with cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Spiced Christmas Jam

This jam brings holiday cheer into a jar. It’s:

• Quick and easy to prepare (under an hour!)
• Full of natural fruit flavor, enhanced by seasonal spices
• A perfect homemade gift
• Made with simple, accessible ingredients
• A festive addition to breakfast or charcuterie boards

What Kind of Fruit Should I Use?

While raspberries and strawberries make a classic combo, you can mix things up with cranberries, blackberries, or even chopped apples. Just keep the overall fruit quantity the same. I love using frozen berries when fresh ones aren’t in season—they’re picked at peak ripeness and work beautifully in jam.

Options for Substitutions

No pectin? No problem. This jam thickens naturally thanks to the fruit and sugar. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer it less sweet, or swap it with honey (just reduce the cooking time slightly). For a different flavor twist, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest. Want it a little spicier? A pinch of cayenne or grated ginger adds a nice kick.

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Ingredients for This Simple Spiced Christmas Jam

• Raspberries – These give the jam its signature tartness and deep red color. Fresh or frozen both work well.
• Strawberries – They balance the tang of the raspberries with their natural sweetness and soften the texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Acts as both a sweetener and natural preservative, helping the jam set properly.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, spicy depth that instantly evokes holiday flavors.
• Ground Cloves – Just a pinch infuses the jam with a strong, aromatic spice note that’s classic for Christmas.
• Ground Nutmeg – Brings a subtle warmth and earthiness to round out the flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the fruit flavor and provides the necessary acidity to preserve the jam.

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Step 1: Prep the Fruit

Wash and hull the strawberries, then cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size. If you’re using frozen fruit, no need to thaw—it will cook down just fine. Combine the raspberries and strawberries in a large saucepan.

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Step 2: Add Sugar and Spices

Pour the sugar over the fruit in the saucepan. Stir in the cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until everything is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes—this helps draw out the juices and kickstarts the maceration process.

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Step 3: Cook the Jam

Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. As the fruit breaks down and the sugar melts, the jam will begin to thicken. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring often.

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Step 4: Check the Consistency

To test if your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it sit for 30 seconds. Run your finger through it—if it wrinkles and holds shape, it’s done. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.

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Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

Once the jam has thickened to your liking, stir in the lemon juice. This adds brightness and also helps preserve the jam. Simmer for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

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Step 6: Jar the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and either process in a boiling water bath for long-term storage or let cool and refrigerate for immediate use.

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How Long to Prepare the Simple Spiced Christmas Jam

Preparation Time: You’ll need about 10–15 minutes to prepare the ingredients. That includes washing, chopping, measuring, and allowing the fruit to macerate with the sugar and spices.

Cooking Time: The actual cooking takes around 25–30 minutes. This includes bringing the mixture to a boil, simmering until thickened, and adding lemon juice at the end. If you’re water bath canning the jars, add another 10 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Simple Spiced Christmas Jam

• Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot to encourage even heating and prevent burning.
• Stir frequently during cooking, especially as the jam thickens.
• Let the fruit macerate with sugar and spices for at least 10 minutes before cooking—it intensifies the flavor.
• Always use sterilized jars for safe storage.
• Chill a small plate in the freezer before cooking—this will help you test the consistency of your jam easily.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the jam: This can cause the fruit to lose its bright flavor and the jam to become overly thick or sticky.
• Not sterilizing the jars: Improperly prepared jars can lead to spoilage or unsafe storage.
• Skipping the lemon juice: It’s essential not just for flavor but also for acidity, which helps preserve the jam.
• Cooking on too high heat: This can cause burning or uneven texture. Keep the heat at a gentle boil or simmer.
• Neglecting to stir: Especially during the final simmer, the jam needs regular stirring to avoid scorching.

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What to Serve With Simple Spiced Christmas Jam?

1. Buttery Toast or Croissants

Slather it on warm, golden toast or fresh croissants for a festive breakfast treat.

2. Yogurt Parfaits

Layer it into Greek yogurt with granola and nuts for a sweet, spiced twist.

3. Cheese Boards

Pair it with Brie, aged cheddar, or goat cheese—it balances savory and salty beautifully.

4. Holiday Thumbprint Cookies

Use this jam as a filling for shortbread-style cookies during the holiday season.

5. Glaze for Meats

Brush it over roasted turkey, chicken, or pork for a sweet-spiced glaze that screams Christmas dinner.

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Storage Instructions

Short-Term: If you’re using the jam right away, let the filled jars cool completely at room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator. They’ll last up to 3 weeks.

Long-Term: For extended storage, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Let them cool and check the seals. Properly canned, the jam will keep for up to 12 months in a cool, dark place.

After Opening: Always refrigerate after opening and consume within 2–3 weeks.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per tablespoon)

• Calories: 45
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen?

Absolutely. Fresh fruit works great and will give you a slightly brighter flavor.

How do I know if my jam has set?

Use the chilled plate method: place a spoonful on a cold plate, wait a few seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.

Do I have to use all the spices?

Not necessarily. You can adjust the spice mix to suit your taste or keep it simpler with just cinnamon.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce it slightly, but keep in mind it helps the jam set and acts as a preservative.

How long does homemade jam last?

Unopened, properly canned jam lasts up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2–3 weeks.

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Conclusion

Simple Spiced Christmas Jam is one of those little joys of the holiday season. It’s festive, flavorful, and incredibly versatile—from breakfast to dessert to charcuterie boards. Whether you’re gifting it or enjoying it at home, this jam brings a cozy, homemade touch to every bite. Try it once, and it might just become your new holiday tradition.

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