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

1. Combine chopped peaches or nectarines, orange, and cranberries in a large saucepan. Add lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir to mix well.

2. Add granulated sugar and water. Stir until combined.

3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

4. Add liquid fruit pectin and stir vigorously. Return to a rolling boil and boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

5. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.

6. Ladle hot jam into prepared jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims and center lids on jars, tightening bands until fingertip tight.

7. Process jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting time for higher altitudes if necessary.

8. Remove jars from the canner and let cool undisturbed for 24 hours. Check seals by pressing down on lids. Store 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.