Festive Merry Christmas Jam Recipe

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.