As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet and spicy aroma of bubbling fruit brought back memories of cozy family gatherings during the holidays. This homemade Rich Amish Christmas Jam perfectly blends tart cranberries and sweet strawberries, making it an unforgettable addition to your festive spread. With only a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, it’s not just a delicious treat; it’s a chance to create lasting memories and establish cherished holiday traditions. Whether you enjoy it on warm biscuits or gift it in pretty jars to friends and neighbors, this jam is bound to bring joy to all. Are you ready to fill your home with the warmth of this delightful spread?
Why Is This Amish Christmas Jam Special?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This homemade jam requires just a few basic ingredients, making it incredibly easy to whip up.
Bursting with Flavor: The bold combination of tart cranberries and sweet strawberries, enriched with warm spices, creates a delightful taste sensation that will elevate any breakfast spread.
Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in charming jars, this jam makes for a unique and heartfelt holiday gift that friends and family will cherish.
Versatile Use: Enjoy it on warm biscuits, scones, or even as a topping for cream cheese and crackers for festive gatherings.
A Touch of Tradition: Embracing Amish culinary traditions, this recipe focuses on using accessible ingredients to bring people together, making it ideal for creating beloved holiday rituals.
Transform your festive mornings with this easy-to-make Amish Christmas Jam that tastes just like home!
Amish Christmas Jam Ingredients
Uncover the magic behind this delightful jam with these simple ingredients.
For the Fruit Base
Cranberries – Fresh whole cranberries provide tartness and natural pectin for thickening; frozen cranberries work too, no need to thaw.
Strawberries – Fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness; chop them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
For Sweetness & Spice
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the jam beautifully and enhances caramel notes; consider granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor twist.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; feel free to adjust to taste or swap for allspice if you prefer.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds depth and a cozy holiday flavor; you can omit this if you like or let cinnamon take the lead.
Ground Cloves – Provides a fragrant and slightly sweet aroma; use sparingly and adjust based on your preference.
Ground Ginger – Introduces a zesty note; can be omitted or replaced with fresh ginger for more pronounced flavor.
Dive into making your Amish Christmas Jam and fill your home with festive aromas!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Amish Christmas Jam
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add 4 cups of fresh cranberries, 2 cups of chopped strawberries, 2 cups of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground ginger. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are fully combined. The rich colors of the fruits will begin to blend, creating a festive look as the sugar starts to dissolve.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH heat, allowing the jam to cook for 4 hours. Resist the urge to open the lid or stir during this time; let the slow cooker work its magic, allowing the flavors of the Amish Christmas Jam to intensify. You’ll know it’s ready when you hear the bubbling sounds and see the cranberry skins pop.
Step 3: Blend to Smoothness
After the cooking time is up, carefully transfer the hot mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker. Blend it until the jam is smooth while ensuring some small chunks remain for texture. The vibrant red hue of the jam will be even more pronounced as it blends, creating an irresistible visual appeal.
Step 4: Cool Down the Jam
Once blended, pour the Amish Christmas Jam into a large bowl and let it cool at room temperature. Keep in mind that the jam will thicken as it cools, reaching a perfect spreadable consistency. Allow this process to take about 30 minutes, where the sweet and spicy aroma will fill your kitchen and set the mood for a cozy holiday spirit.
Step 5: Store or Serve
Transfer the cooled jam into clean, sterilized jars. If you plan to enjoy it within three weeks, store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage (up to six months), place jars in the freezer. As you pour the jam, admire its rich texture and inviting fragrance, perfect for gifting or adding to your festive breakfast spread.
What to Serve with Homemade Rich Amish Christmas Jam
Transform your breakfast table into a festive wonderland with delightful pairings that enhance this vibrant jam’s sweet and tangy flavors.
- Warm Buttermilk Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits soak up the jam’s sweetness beautifully while adding a tender, buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
- Scones with Cream: Light and crumbly, scones provide a lovely canvas for a generous spread of jam and a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing the experience.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layering this jam with creamy Greek yogurt and fresh fruit creates a luscious breakfast or snack that balances tartness and creaminess.
- Cheese and Crackers: A savory platter with cream cheese or brie, paired with hearty crackers, lets the jam shine as a sweet contrast, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle this jam over warm pancakes or waffles for a festive twist, introducing a sweet burst of flavor to your brunch favorites.
- Homemade Bread: Serve the jam alongside freshly baked bread; its warm crust and soft interior beautifully complement the festive flavors of the jam.
- Hot Tea or Coffee: Enhance your breakfast spread with a comforting cup of spiced tea or rich coffee, balancing the sweetness of the jam with warm undertones.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad bursts with freshness and pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the Amish Christmas Jam, balancing sweetness with zing.
How to Store and Freeze Amish Christmas Jam
Fridge: Store the jam in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, ensuring it remains fresh and flavorful for your holiday gatherings.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the jam in clean, sterilized jars or freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. Leave space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: If your jam is frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before use. Gently heat it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, to restore its spreadable consistency.
Canning: For long-term storage beyond 6 months, consider canning your Amish Christmas Jam using proper methods, which can extend its shelf life for up to 1 year.
Expert Tips for Making Amish Christmas Jam
Quality Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries and ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen fruits can work, but fresh provides a vibrant taste and texture.
Avoid Burnt Sugar: Cook on HIGH heat but resist stirring. Opening the lid can let heat escape, burning the sugars and creating a bitter taste.
Consistency Check: To test the jam’s thickness, place a spoonful on a chilled plate. It should hold its shape while remaining spreadable.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with spices like ginger and nutmeg. This can elevate your Amish Christmas Jam with delightful seasonal notes.
Perfect Gifting: For a delightful touch, decorate your jars with festive ribbons or labels, making your homemade jam not just tasty but also a charming gift.
Variations of Amish Christmas Jam
Embrace the spirit of creativity with delightful twists that enhance your homemade jam experience!
Berry Swap: Swap strawberries for raspberries to add a tangy zing and a beautiful color contrast.
Natural Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a more natural sweetness that brings a rich complexity to the jam.
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon during cooking for a bright note that beautifully balances the tartness of the cranberries.
Spiced Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that will surprise your taste buds and enhance the warmth of the spices.
Extra Fruit Boost: Mix in diced apples or pears alongside the cranberries for a delightful texture and natural sweetness that complements the flavor!
Herb Infusion: Infuse your jam with fresh rosemary or thyme for an unexpected herbal twist that adds an elegant touch to your festive spread.
Texture Twist: For a chunkier jam, reserve some of the fruit before blending and fold it back in after blending for delightful bursts of flavor and texture.
Chili-Flavored Variation: Stir in some finely chopped jalapeños for a sweet-and-spicy jam that’s perfect for holiday gatherings and a unique topping for cheese boards.
Try these variations as you make your beloved Amish Christmas Jam, and let your kitchen be filled with joy and laughter this holiday season!
Make Ahead Options
These Amish Christmas Jam preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can combine the cranberries, chopped strawberries, brown sugar, and spices in the slow cooker up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly to preserve freshness. When you’re ready to make the jam, simply set the slow cooker and allow it to cook without opening the lid. To maintain the jam’s vibrant flavors and texture, ensure it cools completely before transferring it to jars. If you store it in the fridge, it stays good for up to three weeks, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors with minimal effort on busy mornings!
Amish Christmas Jam Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for the Amish Christmas Jam?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh, bright cranberries that are firm and shiny, without any dark spots. When selecting strawberries, opt for ones that are bright red and slightly fragrant. Avoid dull-colored or overly mushy fruit to ensure your jam is bursting with freshness!
What is the best way to store Amish Christmas Jam?
You can store your jam in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to keep it well-sealed to preserve its delightful flavor. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in sterilized jars, which can maintain its quality for up to 6 months!
Can I freeze Amish Christmas Jam, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your Amish Christmas Jam! To do so, simply pour the cooled jam into clean, sterilized jars or freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying it!
What if my jam doesn’t thicken properly?
Very! If your jam isn’t thickening, you might need to cook it a bit longer. Transfer it back to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes. You can also test the thickness by placing a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it doesn’t hold its shape, simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you have sugar allergies or prefer a natural sweetener, you can replace brown sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup. For pets, avoid sharing this jam as ingredients like xylitol can be toxic to them. Always check labels for any underlying sensitivities!
Can I gift the Amish Christmas Jam?
Absolutely! Package your jam in lovely jars adorned with ribbons or labels. It makes for a thoughtful, homemade gift, perfect for family and friends during the holiday season. Just be sure to include storage instructions so they can enjoy it fresh!
Homemade Amish Christmas Jam for Cozy Holiday Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a slow cooker, combine fresh cranberries, chopped strawberries, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground ginger. Stir until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH heat. Cook for 4 hours without stirring.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, ensuring some chunks remain for texture.
- Let the jam cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Transfer cooled jam to sterilized jars, store in the fridge or freeze for longer preservation.