Merry Christmas Jam is the perfect way to spread holiday cheer! Made with a mix of fresh pears, plums, figs, and dried raisins, and infused with warm spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cardamom, this jam is rich, flavorful, and perfect for gifting or enjoying at home. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or giving it as a gift, this jam is sure to bring joy to your holiday season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive flavors: A blend of fruits and spices that screams holiday cheer.
- Homemade goodness: Made from scratch with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Perfect for gifting: Jar it up and share the love with family and friends.
- Versatile: Great on toast, biscuits, yogurt, or even as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients
- 2.2 lbs (1 kg) mixed fruits: fresh pears, plums, figs, and dried raisins
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 12 green cardamom pods, slightly crushed
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit
- Wash and peel the pears and plums. Remove the pits from the plums.
- Chop the pears, plums, and figs into small pieces. If the raisins are large, chop them as well.
2. Combine Fruits and Spices
In a large pot, combine the chopped fruits, sugar, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods. Stir everything together and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the fruit juices.
3. Cook the Jam
- Place the pot on medium heat and bring the fruit mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- The jam will thicken as it cooks. To test if it’s done, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. If it gels and holds its shape, it’s ready.
4. Remove Spices
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods.
5. Jar the Jam
- Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
- Seal the jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (for long-term storage) or store them in the refrigerator if you plan to use them within a few weeks.
6. Cool and Store
Let the jars cool completely before storing. The jam can be stored for up to 12 months in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a few weeks.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh, Ripe Fruit: This ensures the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Sterilize Jars Properly: Clean jars and lids in boiling water to prevent contamination.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the jam before jarring and add more sugar if needed.
- Smooth or Chunky: For a smoother jam, blend the fruit slightly before cooking or use an immersion blender partway through.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Spiced Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
- Berry Blend: Add cranberries or raspberries for a tart, festive twist.
- Honey Sweetened: Substitute part of the sugar with honey for a deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Merry Christmas Jam is perfect for:
- Breakfast: Spread on toast, muffins, or scones.
- Cheese Boards: Pair with brie, cheddar, or goat cheese.
- Desserts: Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies or a topping for ice cream.
- Gifting: Decorate jars with ribbons and labels for a heartfelt homemade gift.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a few weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes! Thaw and drain the fruit well before using.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but sugar acts as a preservative, so reducing it may affect the jam’s shelf life.
Can I make this without a water bath?
Yes, but the jam will need to be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This Merry Christmas Jam is the ultimate holiday treat—a delicious blend of fruits and spices that’s perfect for spreading joy. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a wonderful way to celebrate the season with homemade goodness.
Let’s Make It Together!
I’d love to hear how your Merry Christmas Jam turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🎄✨