This Merry Christmas Jam combines the sweetness of mixed fruits like pears, plums, figs, and raisins, with the warmth of holiday spices like cinnamon and cardamom. It’s a simple but flavorful recipe that makes a perfect holiday gift or a delicious spread for breakfast. Follow the instructions to learn how to preserve it and make your own special batch for the festive season. Enjoy it on toast, with scones, or even as a sweet topping for desserts. The spices add a delightful aroma, making this jam a treat for the senses.
This Merry Christmas Jam is packed with the essence of holiday cheer! It’s sweet, festive, and bursting with flavor—perfect for breakfasts or as a delightful homemade gift. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can whip up this seasonal treat right in your kitchen.
INGREDIENTS
- 2.2 Pounds Mixed Fruits: Fresh pears, plums, figs, and dried raisins for a rich and varied fruit base.
- 3 Cups Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness.
- 1 Star Anise: Infuses the jam with a delicate licorice flavor.
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks: Adds warmth and spice.
- 12 Green Cardamom Pods: Provides a fragrant, citrusy note.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Start by placing a small plate in the freezer—this will be used later to test the jam's setting point.
- Step 2:
- Sterilize your jam jars by washing them and boiling them in water. Let them dry completely before use.
- Step 3:
- Wash your fresh fruits well. Do not peel them, but remove the cores from the pears and plums. Cut the fruits into large chunks and add them to a large cooking pot.
- Step 4:
- Add the sugar to the fruits and mix everything together. Add the star anise, cinnamon sticks, and smashed cardamom pods.
- Step 5:
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. It will foam up quite a bit, but this is normal. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6:
- Check if the jam is set by placing a small amount on the frozen plate. If the jam runs, continue simmering. If it sets, it’s ready to go.
- Step 7:
- Remove all spices from the jam and use a hand blender to mash it to your preferred consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
- Step 8:
- Pour the jam into the sterilized jars, filling them to the rim. For extra preservation, add a drop of rum or whiskey to the lids before sealing the jars tightly.
- Step 9:
- Turn the sealed jars upside down while they are still hot. This will create a vacuum seal to keep the jam fresh.
- Step 10:
- Let the jars cool completely before labeling and storing in a cool, dry place. Once opened, store in the refrigerator.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this jam with warm toast, scones, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
- It also pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a sweet and savory treat.
- Store unopened jars in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks.
- If giving as a gift, include a decorative label with the jam’s name and date it was made.
Helpful Notes
- This recipe can be customized with different fruits—consider using apples, cranberries, or oranges for a twist.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, blend the mixture more thoroughly with a hand blender.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or rum for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Jamie Oliver suggests adding a pinch of lemon zest to brighten up the flavor of fruit jams.
- Ina Garten recommends always sterilizing jars properly to ensure long shelf life and avoid spoilage.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- It’s versatile—you can enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or even as a holiday gift.
- The rich, spiced flavor of the fruits makes this jam a perfect seasonal treat.
- No artificial preservatives, just pure, natural goodness.
VARIATIONS
- Use different combinations of fruits such as apples, figs, or oranges.
- Add a hint of vanilla or swap the cinnamon for cloves to change the flavor profile.
- For a more decadent version, stir in a bit of rum or whiskey before sealing the jars.