Christmas Cranberry Jam is a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Combining the tartness of cranberries with a sweet touch, this jam elevates everything from breakfast toast to festive desserts. Its rich flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient, perfect for enhancing holiday meals and sharing with loved ones. Let’s explore how to create this beautiful festive spread!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Jam

This homemade cranberry jam recipe is more than just a sweet treat; it offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it makes a perfect festive cranberry spread for your holiday table. Secondly, this jam serves as a delightful topping for pancakes, waffles, or even desserts, making every meal feel special. Thirdly, it’s a wonderful gift idea; a jar of cranberry jelly for Christmas gifts adds a personal touch to your presents. Additionally, it can be used as a base for cranberry fruit chutney or sweet cranberry sauce. Lastly, it can be made quickly and easily, making it perfect for last-minute preparations. With its vibrant color and tangy-sweet flavor, it’s a holiday essential!

Ingredients for Christmas Cranberry Jam

Gather these items:

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sugar
24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 packages (8 oz each))
1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup cranberry sauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Jam Step-by-Step

Step 1: Gather all of your ingredients and make sure your cream cheese is soft.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until evenly coated.
Step 4: Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Step 5: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Mix in melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
Step 7: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 8: Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 9: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-made crust in the springform pan.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Step 11: Remove from oven and allow to cool at room temperature.
Step 12: Refrigerate for at least four hours or preferably overnight.
Step 13: Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
Step 14: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then spread over the cranberry sauce layer.

Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Cranberry Jam

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth texture.
Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
Allow the jam to cool completely before storing to prevent spoilage.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cranberry Jam

There are countless ways to enjoy your homemade Christmas cranberry jam. It’s perfect as a topping for pancakes or waffles, making breakfast feel festive. Additionally, consider using it as a filling in pastries or as a layer in a cheesecake for a striking dessert. You can even serve it alongside cheese platters for a unique pairing. This jam is truly versatile!

Christmas Cranberry Jam: 12 Ways to Delight Your Holidays - Christmas Cranberry Jam - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cranberry Jam

To store your homemade cranberry jam, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to two weeks. For meal prep, consider making a larger batch and freezing portions for later use. If you want to reheat it, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Cranberry Jam

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Cranberry Jam?

The secret lies in using fresh cranberries and balancing the sweetness with sugar. This ensures the jam has a delightful flavor and texture. Additionally, spices such as cinnamon can enhance the holiday flavor.

Can I make Christmas Cranberry Jam ahead of time?

Absolutely! This jam can be made several days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. It’s a fantastic option for holiday meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Cranberry Jam?

To avoid mistakes, monitor the cooking time closely. Overcooking can lead to a jam that’s too thick. Also, be sure to mix thoroughly to avoid lumps in your final product.

Variations of Christmas Cranberry Jam You Can Try

Experimenting with flavors can lead to unique variations of this jam. You can try a spiced cranberry jam recipe by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves. Another delightful option is cranberry orange jam for festive meals, combining cranberries with fresh orange zest and juice. You could also create a cranberry jam with spices for holiday flavor that adds depth to your dishes. These twists can make your holiday celebrations even more memorable!

For more delicious recipes, check out Irresistible Orange Zest Cranberry or Irresistible Friendsgiving Pumpkin Spiced. You can also explore Sweet Nutty Cranberry Sauce Recipe for a delightful twist on traditional flavors.