Description

This Spiced Christmas Jam is a festive and flavorful preserve that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. Combining the sweetness of peaches or nectarines, the citrusy zing of oranges, and the tartness of cranberries, this jam is infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s a delightful treat to spread on toast, serve with cheese, or even give as a homemade holiday gift. The process is simple and rewarding, resulting in jars of jam that not only taste delicious but also fill your home with the comforting aromas of Christmas

Ingredients

• 4 cups finely chopped pitted peeled peaches or nectarines
• 2 cups finely chopped seeded orange
• 1 cup finely chopped cranberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 pouch (6 ounces) liquid fruit pectin

Preparation Method

Prepare the Fruit Mixture: In a large, deep stainless steel saucepan, combine the finely chopped peaches or nectarines, orange, and cranberries. Add the lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Stir the mixture to blend the ingredients well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.

Add Sugar and Water: Stir in the granulated sugar and water, making sure everything is thoroughly combined. The sugar will help draw out the natural juices from the fruit and create the perfect consistency for the jam.

Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your jam. Stir frequently to prevent the mixture from scorching on the bottom of the pan.

Add the Pectin: Once the fruit mixture reaches a rolling boil, quickly add the liquid fruit pectin. Stir vigorously to ensure the pectin is evenly incorporated and return the mixture to a full rolling boil. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. The pectin will help the jam set properly as it cools.

Remove from Heat: After boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface of the jam. This will help create a clearer, more attractive final product.

Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into prepared jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal. Center the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they are fingertip tight.

Process the Jars: Process the filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes. If you live at a higher altitude, you may need to adjust the processing time according to your local guidelines. This step is essential for safely preserving the jam and creating a vacuum seal.

Cool and Store: After processing, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a rack or towel-lined surface. Let the jars cool undisturbed for 24 hours. After cooling, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not flex up and down, the jar is properly sealed. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dry place.

Tips and Conclusion

Tip
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ginger to the fruit mixture. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can lightly mash the fruit before adding the pectin. This jam pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from spreading on warm toast to serving alongside holiday meats or cheeses.

Conclusion
This Spiced Christmas Jam is more than just a delightful spread; it’s a symbol of holiday warmth and joy. With its rich combination of fruits and spices, this jam brings a taste of the season to every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it at your own table or sharing it as a gift with loved ones, this jam is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Serve it proudly, knowing that you’ve captured the very spirit of Christmas in a jar.