Amish Christmas Jam: Festive Flavor in Every Spoonful

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 8 October 2025

As I stirred the vibrant mixture of cranberries and strawberries, the kitchen began to fill with the unmistakable scents of the holiday season. My family has always cherished homemade treats, and this Easy Amish Christmas Jam recipe has quickly become a festive essential in our home. Not only is it a breeze to whip up—taking just an hour of hands-on time—but it also makes for a delightful gift that spreads joy from jar to table. With its perfect balance of tartness and warmth, this jam will elevate your holiday breakfasts and become a favorite for everyday enjoyment as well. Are you ready to add a splash of color and cheer to your morning toast? Let’s dive into the festive spirit!

Why Make Amish Christmas Jam?

Deliciously Festive: This Amish Christmas Jam is bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh cranberries and strawberries, making it a perfect celebration of the season.

Super Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare. Ideal for those busy holiday mornings!

Perfect for Gifting: Share a taste of homemade goodness—this jam makes a heartfelt gift that anyone will appreciate.

Versatile Use: Whether on flaky biscuits, swirled in yogurt, or drizzled over meats, the jam enhances a variety of dishes, making it a staple in your kitchen.

Long-Lasting Flavor: Once prepared, this jam can be refrigerated for weeks or frozen for months, allowing you to savor the taste of the holidays anytime!

Amish Christmas Jam Ingredients

For the Jam
• Whole Cranberries – Provide tartness and natural pectin for a gel-like texture; choose firm, plump berries for the best results.
• Fresh Strawberries – Add sweetness to balance the tartness of cranberries; feel free to substitute with other berries if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the jam while enhancing depth; white sugar can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances warmth and spice flavor; switch it out for pumpkin pie spice for a delightful twist.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds a fragrant, nutty note; it’s optional but highly recommended for that holiday vibe.
• Ground Cloves – Offers a hint of spiciness; use sparingly, or opt for allspice as a possible substitute.
• Ground Ginger – Provides subtle heat and sweetness; fresh ginger can be used for a brighter flavor in your Amish Christmas Jam.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Amish Christmas Jam

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by rinsing 12 ounces of whole cranberries and hulled strawberries in cool water. In a slow cooker, combine the cleaned cranberries and strawberries with 3 cups of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir the mixture well to ensure the fruits are evenly coated with sugar and spices for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to HIGH. Let the mixture cook for about 4 hours without lifting the lid, as this helps retain moisture and develop rich flavors. You’ll notice the cranberries pop and release their juices, resulting in a thickening, vibrant mixture that’s signature to your Amish Christmas Jam.

Step 3: Blend
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully transfer the hot jam mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker. Blend until you achieve a smooth jam-like consistency, leaving a few small chunks for texture. Be careful not to over-blend, as you want to avoid turning it into cranberry butter.

Step 4: Cool
After blending, let the Amish Christmas Jam cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. As it cools, you will notice it thickens further, settling into the perfect spreadable consistency. Once it reaches room temperature, it’s ready to be transferred into clean jars for storage.

Step 5: Store and Enjoy
Pour the cooled jam into sterilized jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly with lids, and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months. Use this delicious Amish Christmas Jam on your favorite biscuits or to brighten up holiday recipes all season long!

Expert Tips for Amish Christmas Jam

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use only firm, fresh cranberries and ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid overripe fruit as it may alter the jam’s texture.

• Avoiding Burnt Sugar: Maintain a medium to medium-low heat during cooking to prevent the sugars from burning, which can lead to an off taste in your Amish Christmas Jam.

• Proper Blending: Blend the jam to a thick consistency but leave some small fruit pieces for bursts of flavor. Over-blending will turn it into cranberry butter instead!

• Test for Thickness: Drop a spoonful of jam onto a chilled plate; it should hold its shape but remain spreadable. Adjust cooking time if needed for the desired thickness.

• Storage Tips: Refrigerate in clean jars for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing in airtight containers to maintain the festive flavors of your homemade jam.

What to Serve with Amish Christmas Jam

Elevate your holiday meals with these delightful pairings that enhance the rich, fruity goodness of your homemade jam.

Warm Buttermilk Biscuits: The flaky, buttery texture of biscuits makes the perfect vehicle for the jam, providing a warm embrace for each bite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, slathered with a generous layer of jam.
Scones with Clotted Cream: A classic tea-time pairing! The sweetness of scones complemented by the creamy richness of clotted cream creates a delightful contrast to the tartness of the jam.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with Amish Christmas Jam and granola for a refreshing breakfast or snack. The tart fruitiness elevates the creamy yogurt beautifully.
French Toast Casserole: This festive twist on a breakfast favorite uses the jam as a sweet topping, enhancing the rich, custardy texture of the casserole. Ideal for holiday gatherings!
Holiday Glazed Ham: Use the jam as a glaze to bring a sweet and savory dimension to your holiday ham. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a memorable main dish centerpiece.
Cheese Platter: The jam contrasts wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, like creamy brie or sharp cheddar. Serve with crackers for a sophisticated appetizer at your holiday gatherings.
Hot Mulled Cider: Cozy up your festive meals with a warm mug of mulled cider. The spices and sweetness in the cider harmonize perfectly with the flavors of the jam.
Decadent Chocolate Cake: For dessert, try drizzling the jam over slices of rich chocolate cake. The tartness will cut through the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a delightful balance.
Spiced Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful of this festive jam into your morning oatmeal for a warm and cozy breakfast. It adds a burst of flavor and a touch of holiday cheer!

Amish Christmas Jam Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Amish Christmas Jam by exploring these delightful twists and swaps that add unique flavors or cater to your dietary needs!

Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fun flavor twist. Each berry brings its own charm—try mixing them for a colorful jam!
Sweetness Adjust: If brown sugar isn’t available, white sugar works just fine. Just keep in mind that it can slightly alter the depth of flavor.
Spice it Up: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a festive kick! It will infuse your jam with all the cozy flavors of the holiday season.
No Cloves: If cloves aren’t your thing, allspice can step in for a milder yet aromatic alternative that maintains the warmth of your jam.
Fresh Ginger Kick: Swap ground ginger for freshly grated ginger. It adds a zesty touch and enhances the freshness of the fruit flavors.
Low-Sugar Option: For a lighter jam, opt for a low-sugar fruit pectin and substitute with a sugar alternative. Your holiday treats don’t have to sacrifice flavor!
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising zing! The subtle heat plays beautifully with the sweetness of the jam.
Fruit Preserve Remix: Mix in some chopped apples or pears for a delicious texture twist. These fruits add a delightful sweetness and are perfect for a cozy jam.

Feel free to check out our guide on Canning Basics for tips on safely preserving your creations, or dive into our favorite Holiday Breakfast Ideas to discover delicious pairings for your jam!

Storage Tips for Amish Christmas Jam

Fridge: Store your homemade Amish Christmas Jam in clean, airtight jars, and it will keep well for up to 3 weeks, ensuring you can enjoy those holiday flavors for a little longer.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to 6 months; remember to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Canning: If you’re a fan of canning, this jam can be safely canned using proper preservation methods, allowing you to store it in your pantry for up to a year.
Reheating: If using chilled jam, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it reaches a spreadable consistency, perfect for slathering on your morning toast.

Make Ahead Options

These Amish Christmas Jam preparations are a true lifesaver during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! You can prep the fruit and sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld overnight in the refrigerator. Simply combine the rinsed cranberries and hulled strawberries with the brown sugar and spices, stir well, and store the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to make your jam, transfer it to the slow cooker and cook as usual. This make-ahead method ensures your jam is just as delicious while saving you time when you’re busy with other holiday tasks. Enjoy that precious time saved while still providing a homemade touch to your festive meals!

Amish Christmas Jam Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
For the best flavor and texture in your Amish Christmas Jam, choose firm and plump whole cranberries. Look for those that are bright red without any dark spots or blemishes. Freshness is key here, so avoid overripe or shriveled cranberries.

How long can I store the jam in the fridge?
Once made, your homemade Amish Christmas Jam can be stored in clean, airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure the jars are sterilized to keep the jam fresh for as long as possible.

Can I freeze Amish Christmas Jam?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Amish Christmas Jam in airtight containers for up to 6 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before use.

What should I do if my jam isn’t thickening?
If you find that your jam isn’t thickening as desired, don’t worry! You can return it to the slow cooker and cook it a bit longer. Ensure to maintain a medium to medium-low heat, and stir occasionally to prevent burning. You can also test the thickness by dropping a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it doesn’t hold shape, allow it to cook for another 15 to 30 minutes.

Is Amish Christmas Jam safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Amish Christmas Jam are generally safe for humans, it’s best to avoid giving it to pets. The sugar content and spices might not agree with their digestive systems. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about specific ingredients and their safety for pets.