Easy Merry Christmas Jam

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There’s a very specific moment every December when I know it’s time to make this jam.

The kitchen is quiet, it’s a little cold outside, and I’m craving something festive that doesn’t involve rolling cookie dough for hours. That’s when the berries come out.

This easy Merry Christmas jam started as a “use what’s in the fridge” experiment. A few cranberries, some strawberries, a splash of citrus. Nothing fancy. Everything hopeful.

As it simmered, the smell changed the whole mood of the house. Bright. Sweet. Slightly tart. Like Christmas morning before anyone wakes up.

I spooned a little onto toast, still warm. That was it. A new tradition was born.

Now I make it every year — for us, for neighbors, for last-minute gifts that somehow feel incredibly thoughtful.

Recipe Resume (Selling Points)

No pectin needed
Ready in under 30 minutes
Perfect balance of sweet and tart
Beautiful ruby color
Freezer-friendly
Giftable and festive
Beginner jam recipe
Smells like Christmas

Why This Easy Merry Christmas Jam Is The Only One You’ll Ever Need

This jam has saved me more times than I can count.

One year, I forgot teacher gifts. Another year, unexpected guests showed up with homemade cookies and I had… nothing. A jar of this Christmas jam fixed both situations.

It’s forgiving, flexible, and feels special without being complicated. Friends now ask for it by name — which still makes me smile.

Cuisine: American Holiday Preserve

What You Really Need to Make This Amazing Easy Merry Christmas Jam (Simplified)

• Fresh or frozen cranberries
• Strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• Granulated sugar
• Orange zest
• Orange juice
• Lemon juice
• Ground cinnamon

How to Master the Perfect Easy Merry Christmas Jam (My Secret Method)

Start by adding everything to a wide saucepan. No need to be precious here — this is a relaxed recipe.

As the mixture heats, the berries begin to soften and burst. You’ll hear little pops from the cranberries, which is oddly satisfying. Stir occasionally, letting the sugar dissolve and the fruit break down naturally.

After about 15 minutes, the jam thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon and slowly drip, not run. That’s your cue.

Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, then transfer to jars. The jam thickens more as it cools, so resist the urge to overcook.

Chef’s Notes and Tips For A Flawless Easy Merry Christmas Jam

Use a wide pan. More surface area helps the jam thicken faster without cooking too long.

Taste as you go. Cranberries vary in tartness, so feel free to adjust the sugar slightly — just a little at a time.

Get Creative! Easy Substitutions and Fun Variations

Swap strawberries for raspberries for a deeper berry flavor.

Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for extra holiday warmth.

Stir in a splash of vanilla at the end for a softer, dessert-style jam.

Lighten It Up! Simple Swaps for a Healthier Christmas Jam

Reduce the sugar slightly and let the jam simmer longer to thicken naturally.

Use honey or maple syrup (expect a looser set).

This jam is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free as written.

Closing

And there you have it — easy Merry Christmas jam that feels festive, generous, and just a little magical. If you make it, tell me how you used it (toast? cheese board? straight from the spoon?). And don’t forget to peek at a few more cozy holiday recipes while you’re here.

Are You Curious About Anything Else? Take a Look at the Most Frequently Asked Questions We Get About This Recipe

What exactly is Merry Christmas jam?

Merry Christmas jam is a festive homemade holiday jam typically made with cranberries, strawberries, and citrus. The flavor is bright, sweet-tart, and incredibly seasonal.

Unlike traditional single-fruit jams, this Christmas jam recipe layers flavors, making it perfect for gifts, breakfast, and cheese boards during the holidays.

Does this Christmas jam need pectin?

No, and that’s one of the best parts. Cranberries are naturally high in pectin, which helps the jam thicken on its own.

This makes it a great beginner-friendly homemade holiday jam recipe with fewer ingredients and less stress.

How long does homemade Christmas jam last?

Stored in the refrigerator, this easy Merry Christmas jam lasts up to 3 weeks.

You can also freeze it for up to 6 months. Just leave a little space in the jar for expansion.

Can I use frozen fruit for Christmas jam?

Absolutely. Frozen cranberries and strawberries work beautifully and are often more convenient during the holidays.

There’s no need to thaw them first — just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is this jam good for gifting?

Yes, this is one of the best Christmas jam for gifts recipes out there.

The color is gorgeous, the flavor feels special, and it travels well. Add a ribbon and a handwritten label — instant holiday charm.

Why didn’t my jam thicken?

Most often, it simply needs more time. Let it simmer a few minutes longer and remember it thickens as it cools.

If it’s still loose after cooling, reheat gently and cook a bit longer.

What can I serve Christmas jam with besides toast?

This jam is fantastic with brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar.

It’s also lovely swirled into yogurt, spooned over pancakes, or used as a glaze for roasted meats.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use a very large, wide pan and expect a longer cook time.

Stir often to prevent sticking, and be patient — the flavor payoff is worth it.