How to Make Spiced Christmas Jam

This Spiced Christmas Jam is the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. Filled with the warming flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and a touch of orange zest, this jam brings the cozy vibes of the season into every jar. It’s easy to make, and the spiced sweetness is ideal for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or giving as homemade gifts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Flavors: Cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest create the perfect wintery flavor profile.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this jam a fun holiday project.
Versatile: Use it on toast, as a topping for pancakes, or even as a gift during the holidays.
Lower Sugar Option: A healthier version that still delivers plenty of sweet, spiced goodness.

Ingredients

For the Jam:

• 4 cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups powdered erythritol (or preferred sugar substitute)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)

Instructions

Prepare the Fruit:

• In a large saucepan, combine the mixed berries, orange juice, and water.
• Cook over medium heat, mashing the berries with a spoon until the mixture becomes a chunky, liquid consistency (about 10 minutes).

Add Spices and Sweetener:

• Stir in the lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, salt, and powdered erythritol.
• Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Add Pectin:

• Sprinkle the fruit pectin over the berry mixture, stirring to dissolve it completely.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.

Test the Jam:

• To test the jam’s consistency, place a spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready to jar.

Jar the Jam:

• Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch space at the top.
• Seal the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature. For long-term storage, refrigerate the jam once opened.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 40
• Carbs: 9g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Tips for Success

Use Fresh or Frozen Berries: You can use a mix of fresh or frozen berries for a more affordable option.
Customize the Spice Blend: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
Sterilize Your Jars: Ensure your jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to extend the shelf life of the jam.
Use Pectin for Best Results: Fruit pectin helps the jam set perfectly, so don’t skip it for the best texture.

Why This Recipe Works

• Spiced Perfection: The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest gives the jam its signature festive flavor.
• Lower in Sugar: The use of erythritol helps reduce the sugar content while maintaining the sweetness.
• Perfect for Gifting: This jam makes an excellent homemade gift that’s both thoughtful and delicious.

Spiced Christmas Jam is the ultimate holiday treat that brings the warmth and spice of the season into a jar. With its sweet and spiced profile, it’s the perfect spread for toast, pancakes, or even as a topping for desserts. Whether you’re enjoying it yourself or giving it away as a thoughtful gift, this jam will add a festive touch to any occasion!