Jam Recipe

Merry Christmas Jam is a delightful jam recipe that brings holiday cheer to your breakfast table and makes a wonderful homemade gift. This festive spread combines fresh fruits with warming spices, offering a unique flavor profile that is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, using it in desserts, or giving it as a gift, this jam captures the essence of the season in every jar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of pears, plums, figs, and spices creates a rich and aromatic jam that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this jam in no time, even if you’re a beginner!
• Perfect for Gifting: A jar of this homemade jam makes for a thoughtful gift during the holiday season, showcasing your culinary skills.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for desserts; this jam elevates any dish.
• Preserves Freshness: Making this jam allows you to enjoy seasonal fruits long after the holidays are over.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Merry Christmas Jam, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Proper equipment makes the process smoother and ensures your jam sets perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large jam pot
• Sterilized glass jars
• Freezer-safe plate
• Hand blender
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large jam pot: Allows for even cooking of fruits and sugar while preventing spills during boiling.
• Sterilized glass jars: Essential for storing the jam safely and prolonging its shelf life.
• Hand blender: Helps achieve your desired consistency quickly and easily.

Ingredients

This Merry Christmas Jam is made with fresh ingredients that create a delightful flavor.

For the Jam

• 2.2 Pounds Mixed Fruits: fresh pears, plums, figs, and dried raisins (see Notes)
• 3 Cups Sugar
• 1 Star Anise
• 2 Cinnamon Sticks
• 12 Green Cardamom Pods

How to Make Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools

• Place a small plate in the freezer to test the jam’s setting point later.
• Wash and sterilize your jam jars thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruits

• Wash all fruits well. Do not peel them; instead, remove cores from plums and pears.
• Cut fruits into large chunks and place them into a large jam pot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Pour sugar over the fruits in the pot and mix well to coat all fruit pieces evenly.

Step 4: Cook Your Jam

• Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods (smash open cardamom pods to release their aroma).

Step 5: Simmer

• Reduce heat and let simmer on low for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the jam reaches its setting temperature (105°C/220°F).

Step 6: Test for Doneness

• To check if your jam is ready, place a drop of hot jam onto the frozen plate; it should set quickly without running.

Step 7: Blend Your Jam

• Once set, remove spices. Use a hand blender to blend the mixture until smooth or semi-smooth based on your preference.

Step 8: Jar Your Jam

• Pour your warm jam into clean sterilized jars up to the rim.

Step 9: Seal Jars

• Add a drop or two of Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) or whiskey into jar lids for extra germ protection.

Step 10: Create Vacuum Seal

• Close jars tightly and turn them upside down while still hot. Leave them upside down for about 24 hours to create vacuum seals that prevent mold growth.

Step 11: Label & Store

• Label each jar with its name and date. Store in a cool dry place; refrigerate once opened.

How to Serve Jam Recipe

This Merry Christmas Jam is versatile and can elevate many meals or snacks. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy your homemade jam.

Spread on Toast

• Use a generous layer of jam on your morning toast for a sweet start to the day.

Pair with Cheese

• Serve the jam alongside a cheese platter; it complements sharp cheeses beautifully.

Fill Pastries

• Spread the jam inside pastries or croissants for a festive treat during breakfast or brunch.

Add to Yogurt

• Stir in a spoonful of jam into yogurt for a fruity, flavorful snack that’s both healthy and delicious.

Glaze for Meats

• Use the jam as a glaze for roasted meats like ham or turkey, adding a sweet and spicy touch.

Gift in Jars

• Fill small jars with the jam and tie with ribbons for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holidays.

How to Perfect Jam Recipe

To make sure your Christmas jam turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh fruits: The best flavor comes from ripe, fresh fruits. Avoid overripe or damaged fruit for optimal results.

• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for both fruits and sugar to ensure the right balance between sweetness and texture.

• Monitor cooking temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature; the ideal setting point is 105°C (220°F) for proper consistency.

• Test the setting point: Always conduct the frozen plate test before finishing; this ensures your jam will set well.

• Sterilize jars properly: Ensure your jars are well sterilized to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.

• Store correctly: Keep your jars in a cool, dry place, and refrigerate once opened to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Jam Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Merry Christmas Jam can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options that complement this festive treat.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie, cheddar, and blue cheese pairs beautifully with sweet jams.
2. Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits served warm create a perfect base for spreading jam.
3. Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle the jam over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup for a fruity twist.
4. French Toast: Use the jam as a topping on French toast to add extra sweetness and flavor.
5. Oatmeal: Swirl in some jam into your morning oatmeal for added nutrients and taste.
6. Fruit Salad: Toss fresh fruits with a bit of jam for a refreshing side dish bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making jam can be a delightful experience, but several common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping sterilization: Not sterilizing your jars can lead to spoilage. Always wash and sterilize jars before filling them with jam.

• Ignoring fruit quality: Using overripe or low-quality fruit may result in a jam that lacks flavor. Opt for fresh, ripe fruits for the best taste.

• Not measuring accurately: Estimating ingredients can affect the consistency of your jam. Use precise measurements of sugar and fruit for optimal results.

• Neglecting temperature checks: Failing to monitor the cooking temperature can lead to runny or overly thick jam. Use a thermometer to check for the correct setting point at 105°C/220°F.

• Overcooking the jam: Cooking the jam for too long can caramelize the sugar, affecting taste and texture. Keep an eye on your cooking time and test frequently.

• Forgetting to label jars: Not labeling your jars can lead to confusion later. Always mark jars with the name and date for easy identification.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store unopened jars of jam in the refrigerator for up to one year.
• Once opened, consume within four weeks for the best flavor.
• Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers for storage.

Freezing Jam Recipe

• Freeze jars of jam if you want longer storage; they can last up to one year in the freezer.
• Leave headspace in jars when freezing to allow for expansion.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags designed for liquids.

Reheating Jam Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place jam in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm.

• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Place the jar in a small pot of simmering water. Heat gently while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Jam Recipe?

A jam recipe typically includes fruit, sugar, and pectin. This mixture is cooked to achieve a thick consistency, ideal for spreading on toast or using in desserts.

How long does homemade jam last?

Homemade jam can last up to one year when stored properly in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it’s best consumed within four weeks if refrigerated.

Can I customize this Jam Recipe?

Yes! You can modify this festive jam by experimenting with different fruits or spices according to your preference. Try adding citrus zest or swapping out fruits based on seasonal availability!

What fruits work best in a Jam Recipe?

Fruits like strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and apricots are excellent choices for making jam due to their natural sweetness and high pectin content.

Is it safe to eat overcooked jam?

While overcooked jam is safe to eat, its texture and flavor may be compromised. It’s best to follow cooking times closely for optimal results.

Final Thoughts

This Merry Christmas Jam not only enhances holiday breakfasts but also makes a charming gift. Its versatility allows you to mix up flavors or adjust spices as per your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate; give this Jam Recipe a try during your next kitchen adventure!

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Merry Christmas Jam

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Merry Christmas Jam is a festive and flavorful spread that captures the essence of the holiday season. This delightful jam combines fresh pears, plums, figs, and warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom, making it perfect for breakfast or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Its unique flavor profile enhances everything from morning toast to desserts and cheese platters. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this jam is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of holiday cheer to their culinary repertoire.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 25 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2.2 Pounds Mixed Fruits: fresh pears, plums, figs, and dried raisins
• 3 Cups Sugar
• 1 Star Anise
• 2 Cinnamon Sticks
• 12 Green Cardamom Pods

Instructions

1. Prepare your tools by sterilizing jars and placing a small plate in the freezer.
2. Wash and cut the mixed fruits into large chunks; place them in a large jam pot.
3. Add sugar to the fruit and mix until well-coated.
4. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and add star anise, cinnamon sticks, and smashed cardamom pods.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until the mixture reaches 105°C (220°F).
6. Test for doneness using the frozen plate method; blend the jam with a hand blender to your desired consistency.
7. Pour warm jam into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and create vacuum seals by turning jars upside down for 24 hours.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Preserves
• Method: Jam Making
• Cuisine: Variations

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20g)
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor. For variations, experiment with adding citrus zest or different spices according to your taste. Ensure proper jar sterilization to extend shelf life.