The smell of sweet, spiced fruits bubbling away in the kitchen invites nostalgia, doesn’t it? As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reaching for my trusty slow cooker to whip up this Christmas Jam Crockpot recipe featuring cranberries and strawberries. This delightful concoction transforms simple ingredients into a ruby-red treasure, perfect for warm toast or as a treat for family and friends. The best part? You can savor the lovely aromas while you prepare other festive delights or relax with a cup of cocoa. Plus, this jam is a fun twist on traditional recipes—it’s quick to make and freezer-friendly, meaning you can gift jars of homemade joy without the stress. So, are you ready to spread some holiday cheer with this easy and delicious recipe?

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Jam?

Simplicity: This Crockpot Cranberries and Strawberries jam requires minimal effort—just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let the magic happen.

Festive Flavors: The delightful combination of tart cranberries and sweet strawberries, enhanced with warm spices, brings the essence of the holidays to your table.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this jam is sure to impress family and friends. It’s a lovely addition to charcuterie boards or as a delightful topping for scones.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this jam in advance, refrigerate it, or freeze it for later. It’s a fantastic way to gift homemade treats without the last-minute rush.

Healthy Twist: With fresh fruit and controlled sugar, this jam is a healthier alternative to store-bought options, allowing you to enjoy sweet flavors without the guilt.

Crockpot Cranberries and Strawberries Ingredients

For the Jam

Cranberries – Provide tartness and natural pectin for thickening; fresh or frozen both work well.
Strawberries – Add fruity sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the jam and assists in the setting process, ensuring that the jam has the right consistency.
Light Brown Sugar – Enhances depth of flavor with caramel notes, making the jam even more delightful.
Ground Allspice – Adds warm and aromatic spices characteristic of holiday flavors, infusing the jam with a festive essence.
Ground Cinnamon – Contributes to the warm, comforting taste of the jam which is perfect for the holidays.
Ground Ginger – Offers a spicy warmth that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Optional Citrus (Orange Zest/Lemon Juice) – Brightens the flavor profile of the jam; a little goes a long way for an extra zesty kick.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe: Festive Cranberry & Strawberry Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and 16 ounces of strawberries. Remove any stems from the strawberries and slice them into halves or quarters for even cooking. In a large bowl, combine the cranberries and strawberries with 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon each of ground allspice, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir until the fruit is well-coated in the sugars and spices.

Step 2: Transfer to the Crockpot
Pour the fruit mixture into your slow cooker, making sure not to exceed the two-thirds full mark. This ensures even cooking and prevents overflow. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to high heat. Allow the mixture to cook for approximately 4 hours, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking and promote even caramelization.

Step 3: Blend the Jam
After cooking for 4 hours, carefully remove the lid and check the mixture—it should be fragrant and bubbling, with the cranberries softened and bursting. Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture for 2-3 quick pulses until you achieve a thick, spreadable texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the jam to a countertop blender, blending carefully to avoid splatter.

Step 4: Jar the Jam
Once blended, ladle the warm jam into clean, sterilized jars. Be sure to wipe any residue from the rims of the jars for a proper seal. Secure the lids loosely to allow the jam to cool properly, as the heat will create a vacuum seal as it cools down.

Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the jars of jam to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Once cooled, place the jars in the refrigerator, where they will thicken further overnight. This Christmas Jam Crockpot recipe will be ready to spread on your favorite biscuits or as a delightful gift by the next day!

Expert Tips for Christmas Jam

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always go for firm, bright cranberries and ripe strawberries. Avoid any mushy or discolored fruit to ensure the best taste in your crockpot jam.
Sugar Balance: If you prefer a less sweet jam, feel free to reduce the granulated sugar slightly. Just remember that sugar also helps with preservation, so don’t cut it too much.
Blending Techniques: When blending, pulse gently to avoid splatters. Aim for a thick, spreadable texture; it’s okay to have small chunks of fruit for a rustic feel.
Proper Storage: Since this is a refrigerator jam, make sure to store it in the fridge and consume it within 3 weeks. For longer preservation, freeze it in suitable jars.
Spice Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with the spices! Adding nutmeg or cardamom can introduce an exciting twist to your Christmas Jam Crockpot recipe.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Jam Crockpot Cranberries and Strawberries are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the fruit mixture (cranberries, strawberries, sugars, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in a covered bowl to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to make the jam, transfer the mixture to your crockpot and cook as directed. After blending, ladle the jam into clean jars and refrigerate overnight for optimal thickening. With this prep-ahead strategy, you’ll have delightful, homemade jam ready to enjoy or gift, all while freeing up your schedule for other holiday festivities!

What to Serve with Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe

Indulging in a sweet and tangy jam is only the beginning of your festive culinary adventure. Here are some delightful pairings to complete your holiday spread.

Warm Biscuits: A flaky, buttery biscuit perfectly soaks up the jam, creating a comforting duo that’s irresistible.
Cream Cheese Toast: Spread a layer of cream cheese on toasted bread and top with the jam for a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors.
Charcuterie Board: The sweet-tart balance of the jam adds a vibrant touch to cured meats and cheeses, enhancing your holiday entertaining.
Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle this festive jam over pancakes or waffles for a cheerful breakfast that feels like a celebration every morning.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer the jam with Greek yogurt and granola for a refreshing, nutritious snack that’s perfect for holiday brunches.
Cinnamon Roll Topping: Slather warm cinnamon rolls with a generous amount of jam for a twist on traditional frosting, adding a burst of flavor.
Scones: These classic British treats, especially when warm, pair beautifully with the jam, making them a wonderful addition to tea time.
Muffins: Incorporate the jam into a sweet muffin batter for a fruity punch or simply use it as a topping for added flair.
Festive Cocktails: Incorporate a spoonful of jam into holiday cocktails for a unique twist, elevating your gatherings with a splash of festive flavor.

Variations & Substitutions for Christmas Jam

Switching things up in the kitchen can be just as joyful as making the original recipe!

Berry Twist: Swap raspberries for strawberries for a unique tart flavor that brightens your jam.
Vanilla Infusion: Add a splash of vanilla extract during the cooking process for an aromatic twist that enhances sweetness. It pairs beautifully with holiday desserts!
Apple Addition: Mix in chopped apples for a chunky texture and an extra layer of fruity goodness.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate more citrus by adding lemon zest or using a splash of mandarin juice for a refreshing pop of flavor.
Spice It Up: Don’t be shy to experiment with spices! A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom will deepen the festive aroma and warmth of your lovely jam.
Less Sugar: For a healthier option, reduce the sugar slightly and consider using a natural sweetener to maintain the balance.
Holiday Heat: Want some heat? Toss in a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking to create a delightful spicy-sweet contrast.
Nutty Surprise: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, after blending for a delightful crunch that surprises your taste buds.

These simple changes can create a unique and delightful experience every time, enhancing your homemade spreads! And if you’re looking for more incredible recipes, don’t miss out on making Chinese Beef Broccoli or indulging in the perfect harmony of flavors with Homemade Orange Candy.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Jam

Fridge: Store your Christmas Jam Crockpot in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the jam in sterilized jars or freezer-safe bags for up to 6 months. Leave some space at the top of jars to allow for expansion.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen jam in the fridge overnight. Gently stir before serving to restore texture.

Refrigerate After Opening: Once opened, it’s best to keep your jam in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.

Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting cranberries and strawberries?
Absolutely! When choosing cranberries, opt for firm, bright ones without any dark spots or softness—this ensures tartness and quality. For strawberries, look for ones that are ripe and fragrant, avoiding any mushy or discolored fruit. Fresh or frozen cranberries both work beautifully for this recipe!

How should I store my Christmas jam once made?
You can store your Christmas Jam Crockpot in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. To keep it fresh, always use a clean spoon each time you scoop some out to avoid contamination. If you’re looking to preserve it for a longer period, freeze the jam in suitable jars for up to 6 months.

Can I freeze my Christmas jam? If so, what’s the process?
Very much! Freezing your Christmas jam is simple. Start by ladling the cooled jam into sterilized jars, ensuring you leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal the jars properly and label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy the jam, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and give it a gentle stir to restore its texture before serving.

What if my jam doesn’t thicken?
If you find that your jam hasn’t thickened as expected after blending, don’t worry! You can return the mixture to the crockpot and cook it on high for an additional 30 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. This helps to evaporate some of the excess liquid. Just remember, a bit of patience goes a long way in achieving that perfect spreadable consistency!

Is this jam suitable for a gift?
Absolutely! This Christmas Jam Crockpot Recipe is perfect for gifting, as it embodies festive flavors and homemade charm. Just make sure to inform your friends that it’s best enjoyed within 3 weeks when refrigerated. You can also freeze it beforehand for an even longer-lasting homemade treat!