As the holidays approach, my kitchen transforms into a bustling sanctuary filled with the sweet aroma of simmering fruit and spices. It’s during this magical time that I eagerly dive into making my Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe—a delightful concoction that captures the spirit of the season. This easy-to-follow recipe is a true gift to your taste buds, allowing you to simply toss ingredients into the crockpot and let the magic unfold. The best part? In just a few hours, you’ll have a luscious spread that not only elevates your breakfast but also makes for thoughtful homemade gifts. Plus, with the option to swap in your favorite fruits, you can customize this festive treat to suit every palate. Are you ready to fill your home with the comforting essence of holiday cheer? Let’s get started!

Why is this jam a holiday favorite?

Simplicity: This Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe requires minimal effort—literally just toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic.

Customizable: With easy fruit substitutions, from strawberries to raspberries, it suits everyone’s taste preferences.

Festive Flavors: A delightful blend of cranberries, spices, and sweetness brings the holiday spirit to your breakfast table.

Perfect for Gifting: Share the joy of homemade goodness by gifting this vibrant jam in cute jars; friends and family will love it!

Healthier Choice: Made with whole fruits and fewer preservatives, it’s a guilt-free indulgence compared to store-bought options.

Once you’ve enjoyed this jam on toast, consider checking out our Quiche Savory Brunch for more cozy meal ideas!

Christmas Jam Crockpot Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create your own festive jam!

For the Jam Base

Cranberries – provide tartness and natural pectin; fresh or frozen will work well.
Strawberries – add fruity sweetness to balance the tartness; fresh strawberries are preferred for best flavor.
Granulated Sugar – sweetens the jam and aids in setting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
Light Brown Sugar – adds depth of flavor with warm caramel notes that enrich the jam’s profile.

For the Spices

Ground Allspice – contributes a holiday warmth that enhances the overall taste.
Cinnamon – brings a comforting, familiar spice that evokes festive memories.
Ginger – adds a zesty kick, complementing the other flavors beautifully.

Optional Brightener

Orange Zest or Lemon Juice – brightens the flavor if you’re seeking a little extra zing in your jam.

Craft your perfect Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe and spread it on everything from toast to holiday pastries! Enjoy the festive cheer.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and 1 pound of strawberries, removing any stems or blemishes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cleansed cranberries, hulled strawberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of light brown sugar, and the spices: 1 teaspoon each of ground allspice, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir gently to ensure every piece of fruit is coated evenly with the sugars and spices, creating a fragrant mixture.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot
Transfer the fruit mixture into your slow cooker, making sure not to exceed two-thirds full to allow for bubbling. Cover the lid tightly and set your crockpot to cook on high for about 4 hours. As it cooks, the fruits will break down and release their juices, filling your kitchen with a delightful holiday aroma.

Step 3: Stir Midway Through Cooking
At the 2-hour mark, carefully remove the lid and give the jam a good stir to promote even cooking. This will help prevent the jam from sticking to the sides and ensure a consistent texture. After stirring, re-cover the slow cooker and let it continue cooking for the remaining time until the cranberries are tender and the mix looks glossy and syrupy.

Step 4: Blend the Mixture
Once the cooking time is complete, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until it reaches a thick but spreadable consistency with some chunky bits remaining. If you prefer, you can transfer the jam to a countertop blender; just be cautious with hot liquids. Blend in small batches if using a regular blender, pulsing gently to maintain some texture in your Christmas jam.

Step 5: Jar and Cool
Ladle the hot jam into clean jars, leaving a little space at the top. Wipe the rims with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal, then secure the lids loosely. Allow the jars to cool at room temperature for about an hour, letting the flavors meld as the jam thickens further during this time.

Step 6: Refrigerate Overnight
After cooling, place the jars in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to develop and the jam to set perfectly. Your Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe will be ready to use the next day—just remember this jam is designed for refrigeration and should be enjoyed rather quickly to maintain its fresh, vibrant taste!

Make Ahead Options

Prepare your Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe in advance to save precious time on busy holiday mornings! You can wash and chop the fruit (cranberries and strawberries) up to 3 days before cooking, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, the sugar and spices can be combined and stored separately to streamline your prep. When you’re ready to make the jam, simply combine these prepped ingredients in the crockpot and cook as directed. For the best flavor, refrigerate the completed jam overnight to allow the flavors to deepen—this ensures that your jam is just as vibrant and delicious when enjoyed on toast or pastries.

What to Serve with Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe

Picture a cozy breakfast table, warm toast awaiting a slather of sweet-tart delight, inviting smiles all around.

Toasted Baguette: A crispy, warm baguette provides the perfect crunchy base for the velvety jam, creating a delightful contrast.
Cream Cheese Spread: The rich creaminess plays beautifully with the fruity jam, balancing flavors and adding a luxurious touch.
Charcuterie Board: Elevate your jam with a stunning spread of meats and cheeses; the fruity notes will complement savory bites perfectly.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer it with yogurt and granola for a deliciously festive start to your day, combining creamy, crunchy, and sweet elements in every spoonful.
Breakfast Pancakes: Drizzle the jam over fluffy pancakes for a dash of holiday cheer; it transforms an ordinary breakfast into a festive feast.
Sparkling Cider: Serve this refreshing drink alongside breakfast. Its fruity, bubbly nature pairs splendidly with the jam’s sweet notes.

Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with your jam by exploring these delicious alternatives!

Berry Swap: Substitute strawberries with raspberries for a tart flavor that brightens your spread.
Tropical Twist: Experiment with pineapple for a sunny, sweet variation that transports you to warmer days.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that enhances the jam’s flavor profile.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the smoothness of the jam.
Sour Notes: Incorporate a touch of balsamic vinegar for a sophisticated tang that elevates the flavors wonderfully.

If you’re considering other fruits, our Quiche Savory Brunch can be a lovely pairing! Don’t hesitate to mix and match to create something uniquely yours this holiday season!

Expert Tips for Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe

Use Fresh Fruits: Always opt for fresh cranberries and strawberries when possible for the best flavor and texture in your jam.
Mind Your Fill Level: Avoid overfilling the crockpot. Keep it below two-thirds full to prevent any messy spills as the jam cooks and bubbles.
Blend Carefully: If you prefer a textured jam, use a few gentle pulses instead of blending it into a smooth puree, preserving delightful fruit chunks in your Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe.
Stir Halfway: Don’t forget to give your jam a gentle stir halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid sticking.
Cool Before Refrigerating: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the jam thickens.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices or try different fruits! This versatility makes your Christmas jam uniquely yours.

Storage Tips for Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe

Room Temperature: Homemade Christmas jam can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking, but should be refrigerated after that to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Keep your jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy it on toast, pastries, or as a delightful topping!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jam for up to 6 months. Ensure there’s at least an inch of headspace in jars to allow for expansion while freezing.
Reheating: If desired, you can gently reheat the jam on the stove over low heat, stirring until warm. Just avoid boiling to preserve the texture of your Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe.

Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe FAQs

What fruits can I use for this jam?
Absolutely! While cranberries and strawberries are the stars of this Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe, you can easily swap strawberries for raspberries for a tangier flavor. Other great substitutes include blueberries, blackberries, or peaches, just remember that the texture and sweetness may vary a bit.

How long can I store the jam in the refrigerator?
You can keep your homemade Christmas jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you have any leftovers, I often recommend using it for a cozy breakfast or as a topping for desserts!

Can I freeze this jam?
Yes, you can! To freeze your jam, ladle it into airtight freezer-safe jars, leaving an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw.

What should I do if my jam is too runny?
If your jam turns out runny, don’t worry! You can further cook it down on the stove over low heat to thicken it. Just pour the jam into a saucepan and cook gently, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired consistency—be patient, as this can take up to 30 minutes.

Can I give this jam as a gift?
Absolutely! This jam makes for the perfect homemade gift during the holiday season. Just pour it into pretty jars, seal them with cute lids, and if you’d like, add a festive label. Your friends and family will appreciate the thoughtful, personal touch.

Is this jam suitable for pets?
While the ingredients are generally safe for humans, it’s best to avoid giving homemade jams to pets, as sugar and some fruits can be harmful to them, especially in large amounts. Always prioritize their health by sticking to their usual diet.