In the Kitchen ~ Christmas Jam

The last of this years canning is done…

A beautiful dark rich Christmas Jam .. made with home grown strawberries and blackberries.. apples from a friends tree and fresh cranberries from the farmers market. With all the fragrant spices.. it really smells like Christmas!  It's delicious on toast, scones, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 orange, zested and juiced
2½ cups granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
4 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen) - use a mix of cranberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a festive flavor
1½ tsp ground cloves
1½ tsp ground nutmeg
1½ tsp ground ginger
1½ tsp allspice (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 packet powdered pectin (optional, for a firmer jam)

• If using fresh fruit, chop the berries and apples into small pieces.
• Add them to a large pot or saucepan. 
• Pour the orange juice over the fruit and add the orange zest
• Over medium heat, bring the fruit, orange juice, and zest to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. 
• Once boiling, reduce the heat 
• Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the fruit softens.
• As the fruit cooks, use a potato masher or fork to mash it to your preferred consistency.
• Stir in the cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice (if using). 
• Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
• Pour in the sugar and stir constantly until it dissolves and the mixture returns to a boil.
• If you prefer a firmer jam, add the powdered pectin according to the packet instructions 
• Boil for another 1-2 mins

• Stir in the lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
• To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate. 
• Let it cool for a minute, then gently push it with your finger. 
• If it wrinkles slightly and holds its shape, the jam is ready.
• Remove from heat 
• Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.
• Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or...
• follow proper canning procedures to store it for longer.

Tip: Adjust the spice levels to your taste. You can make it spicier by increasing cinnamon or adding star anise for an extra

Love and Hugs

Phoebe x