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Classic Christmas Raspberry Jam

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: About 4 half-pint jars 1x
  • Category: Jam & Spreads
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Holiday
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Wrap up your holiday season with the rich, tangy sweetness of Classic Christmas Raspberry Jam! This easy recipe is packed with ruby-red raspberries, warm holiday spices like cinnamon and cloves, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Whether you're looking for a festive breakfast idea, a thoughtful edible gift, or a tasty addition to your holiday baking, this jam checks all the boxes. Perfect for beginners or experienced canners, it's a crowd-pleaser that brings cheer to every bite. Great for quick breakfasts, easy recipes, and sweet seasonal food ideas.


Ingredients

Scale

4 cups fresh or frozen raspberries

3 cups granulated sugar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 packet fruit pectin (optional)


Instructions

1. Sterilize jars, lids, and tools by boiling or dishwashing; lay out a clean towel for cooling.

2. Prepare raspberries by rinsing (fresh) or thawing and draining (frozen), then mash slightly.

3. Combine raspberries, lemon juice, zest, spices, and sugar in a saucepan; let sit for 10 minutes.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then simmer and stir for 15–20 minutes.

5. Optional: Stir in pectin, boil again for 1–2 minutes for firmer jam.

6. Test for doneness using the cold plate method; cook longer if needed.

7. Fill sterilized jars using a funnel, wipe rims, apply lids, and tighten bands.

8. (Optional) Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for longer storage.

9. Label jars and let cool. Store sealed in a pantry or refrigerate if unprocessed.


Notes

For a smoother jam, strain mashed berries through a sieve to remove seeds.

Always sterilize jars properly for safety and shelf life.

Customize the spice blend by adding almond or vanilla extract for a unique twist.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 50
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Christmas jam, raspberry jam, homemade jam, easy recipe, festive food, holiday gift, quick breakfast, breakfast ideas