Easy Amish Christmas Jam

Christmas morning always feels more special with Easy Amish Christmas Jam on the table. This delightful homemade jam offers the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a wonderful addition to your breakfast spread or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Its vibrant color and rich taste not only enhance your meals but also bring a festive spirit to any occasion, ensuring that each jar is as unique as the memories made with it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious jam without hassle.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of cranberries and strawberries delivers a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Versatile Use: Spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or drizzle over desserts for an added touch.
• Perfect for Gifting: Homemade jam makes for a heartfelt gift during the holiday season or any special occasion.
• Natural Ingredients: This recipe uses whole fruits and spices, making it a wholesome choice for your family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Amish Christmas Jam, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Jars with lids
• Food processor (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows the ingredients to cook evenly without boiling over.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring; it won’t scratch your pot and helps combine ingredients well.
• Jars with lids: Proper storage is key in preserving your jam’s freshness and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Fruit Base

• 6 cups (24 oz) whole cranberries
• 16 oz fresh strawberries

For Sweetness and Spice

• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Total Time: 250 minutes

How to Make Easy Amish Christmas Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Start by rinsing the cranberries and strawberries. Remove any stems from the strawberries. If desired, chop the strawberries into smaller pieces for easier blending.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the rinsed cranberries, chopped strawberries, and brown sugar. Stir well to coat the fruit evenly with sugar.

Step 3: Add Spices

Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger to the fruit mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cook the Jam

Place the pot over medium heat. Cook while stirring frequently until the mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about four hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

Once cooked, you can use an immersion blender if you prefer a smoother texture. Blend until reaching your desired consistency.

Step 6: Jar Your Jam

Carefully pour hot jam into sterilized jars. Seal them tightly with lids while still warm to create a vacuum seal.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow jars to cool at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator or pantry. Enjoy your homemade easy Amish Christmas jam!

How to Serve Easy Amish Christmas Jam

Homemade Easy Amish Christmas Jam is a delightful addition to any holiday spread. This jam pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, enhancing flavors and adding a festive touch.

On Toast or Bread

• Spread it thick: Use this jam on warm toast or freshly baked bread for a delicious breakfast treat.
• Top with cream cheese: For a savory twist, spread cream cheese on your toast and add a layer of jam on top.

With Cheese

• Cheese platter star: Serve alongside a selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar for an appealing appetizer.
• Pair with ricotta: Spread ricotta cheese on crackers and top it with the jam for a sweet-savory bite.

In Desserts

• Layer in parfaits: Add layers of jam in yogurt parfaits to elevate the dessert experience.
• Drizzle over ice cream: Warm the jam slightly and drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.

As a Glaze

• Glaze for meats: Brush the jam over roasted chicken or turkey during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
• Use in baking: Incorporate the jam into baked goods, such as muffins or pastries, for a burst of sweetness.

How to Perfect Easy Amish Christmas Jam

To ensure your Easy Amish Christmas Jam turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe fruit: Always select ripe cranberries and strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for sugar and spices to maintain balance in taste.
• Avoid boiling too long: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking, which can affect consistency.
• Use clean jars: Sterilize jars thoroughly before filling them with jam to ensure freshness and longevity.
• Cool properly: Allow the jam to cool at room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation inside jars.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Amish Christmas Jam

Easy Amish Christmas Jam complements various side dishes that enhance its fruity flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Brie Cheese Bites: Puff pastry filled with creamy brie cheese, baked until golden. Serve warm with a dollop of jam on top.
2. Savory Scones: Fluffy scones infused with herbs that pair beautifully with sweet jams; serve them warm.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized, offering a sweet contrast.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes that provide an excellent base for the sweet-tart flavors of the jam.
5. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach topped with nuts and feta, drizzled with vinaigrette; add some jam as a unique dressing twist.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: A comforting dish sprinkled with marshmallows; serve it alongside jams for extra sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making your Easy Amish Christmas Jam can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the prep: Always wash and measure your ingredients before starting. This ensures you have everything ready and avoids any last-minute scrambling.
• Not checking the fruit: Using overripe or spoiled fruit can ruin the jam’s flavor. Always inspect your cranberries and strawberries for freshness.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the jam for too long can lead to a burnt taste. Keep an eye on it, and stir regularly to prevent sticking.
• Failing to cool properly: Letting the jam cool at room temperature before sealing it in jars is crucial. This prevents condensation inside the jar, which can spoil the jam.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Amish Christmas Jam in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Amish Christmas Jam

• Use freezer-safe jars or containers for storage.
• The jam can be frozen for up to 6 months. Make sure to leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Easy Amish Christmas Jam

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the jam in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat while stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and storing your Easy Amish Christmas Jam.

How do I make Easy Amish Christmas Jam thicker?

To thicken your jam, consider adding a bit of pectin or cooking it longer. Ensure you stir continuously to avoid burning.

Can I use frozen fruit for Easy Amish Christmas Jam?

Yes, using frozen cranberries or strawberries works well! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before use.

How long does Easy Amish Christmas Jam last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 2 weeks; frozen, it can be kept for up to 6 months.

Can I customize my Easy Amish Christmas Jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like vanilla or citrus zest for additional flavor. You can also mix different fruits based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Amish Christmas Jam is a festive treat that adds joy to breakfast or dessert tables alike. Its versatility allows for customization with various fruits and spices, making each batch unique. Try this recipe and enjoy a homemade delight that captures the essence of holiday warmth!