Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe

Immerse your senses in the spirit of the holidays with this Sparkling Holiday Jam. Bursting with the flavors of fresh strawberries and cranberries, this jam is sure to become a staple at your holiday celebrations. It's not just a jam, it's a joyous celebration in a jar!

Photos of Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe

Before heading to the supermarket, take note of a couple of ingredients that might not be readily available in your pantry. The first one is powdered fruit pectin, which is a key ingredient in jam making to help it set properly. The other one is fresh or frozen cranberries. While you may find cranberries in your local store during the holiday season, they may not be available year-round. Be sure to stock up when you see them!

Ingredients for Sparkling Holiday Jam

Strawberries: Known for their bright red color and juicy texture, strawberries give this jam its sweet base.

Cranberries: Cranberries add a tart contrast to the sweet strawberries and bring a festive color to the jam.

Powdered fruit pectin: This helps to thicken the jam, creating the perfect spreadable consistency.

Margarine: Margarine adds a slight richness to the jam, balancing out the sweetness of the fruits.

White sugar: The key sweetener in this jam, sugar also works with the pectin to set the jam.

One reader, Alanson Sweet says:

This sparkling holiday jam recipe is a game-changer! The combination of strawberries and cranberries creates a burst of festive flavors. It's easy to make and the perfect addition to any holiday spread. The jam's sweet and tangy taste is a hit with everyone. I highly recommend trying it out for your next holiday gathering!

Alanson Sweet

Techniques Required for Making Sparkling Holiday Jam

How to sterilize jars and lids: Boil the jars and lids in a large pot of water for at least 10 minutes to ensure they are thoroughly sterilized before filling them with the jam.

How to fill jars quickly: After cooking the jam, quickly fill the sterilized jars to within ½-inch from the top to ensure a proper seal and preservation of the jam.

How to process in a boiling water bath: Place the filled jars in a large pot of boiling water, ensuring that the jars are fully submerged, and process them for 5 minutes to seal the jars and preserve the jam.

How To Make Sparkling Holiday Jam

Nothing beats sweet and tangy jam on top of warm bread. Enjoy this holiday season by making this sweet and sour holiday jam with strawberry and cranberry.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10cupsstrawberries,coarsely chopped
12ozfresh or frozen cranberries,coarsely chopped
2ozpowdered fruit pectin
1tspmargarine
5lbswhite sugar

Instructions

Sterilize jars and lids in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. Let simmer while making jam.
In a large saucepan, combine strawberries, cranberries, pectin, and margarine. Bring to a boil. Stir in sugar, and return to a boil. Cook for 1 minute; remove from heat.
Quickly fill jars to within ½-inch from the top. Wipe rims clean, and put on lids. Process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 100.39kcal
Fat: 0.09g
Saturated Fat: 0.01g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g
Carbohydrates: 25.80g
Fiber: 0.48g
Sugar: 24.49g
Protein: 0.12g
Sodium: 0.93mg
Calcium: 3.05mg
Potassium: 27.72mg
Iron: 0.09mg
Vitamin A: 0.26µg
Vitamin C: 9.78mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Sparkling Holiday Jam

To ensure your jam sets properly, it's crucial to not skimp on the sugar. Sugar works with the pectin to create the gel-like consistency characteristic of jam. If you reduce the sugar, the jam may not set correctly. Also, remember to stir the mixture continuously while it's boiling to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Holiday Jam

Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Organize your workspace: Clear and organize your kitchen workspace before you begin to ensure easy access to tools and ingredients.

Use pre-cut fruits: Consider using pre-cut fruits or vegetables to save time on preparation.

Multi-task: Look for opportunities to multi-task, such as chopping ingredients while waiting for water to boil.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming adjustments.

Substitute Ingredients For Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe

strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries have a similar tartness and sweetness to strawberries, making them a suitable substitute in this jam recipe.
cranberries - Substitute with blueberries: Blueberries can provide a similar tartness and color to cranberries, while adding a slightly different flavor profile to the jam.
powdered fruit pectin - Substitute with liquid fruit pectin: Liquid fruit pectin can be used as a substitute for powdered pectin, but the cooking time and method may need to be adjusted.
margarine - Substitute with unsalted butter: Unsalted butter can be used as a substitute for margarine, providing a richer flavor to the jam.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of white sugar, adding a different depth of sweetness to the jam.

Best Presentation Ideas for Your Holiday Jam

Elevate the plating: Arrange the sparkling holiday jam in a small crystal glass to showcase its vibrant colors and festive appeal. Place it on a silver platter for an elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh berries: Adorn the jam with a medley of fresh strawberries and cranberries to add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Accompany with artisan crackers: Serve the sparkling holiday jam alongside a selection of artisanal crackers to provide a delightful contrast in texture and a perfect pairing for the sweet and tart flavors.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with delicate edible flowers such as pansies or violets, adding a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Present with a silver spoon: Offer a silver spoon alongside the jam, enhancing the luxurious and refined presentation while providing a convenient utensil for serving.
Create a festive ambiance: Set the stage with candlelight and festive decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, complementing the holiday theme of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Sparkling Holiday Jam

Large saucepan: A large, heavy-bottomed pot used for cooking and simmering the jam mixture.
Boiling water bath: A large pot or canner used for processing the filled jars to preserve the jam.
Canning jars: Glass jars specifically designed for preserving jams and jellies.

How To Store and Freeze Sparkling Holiday Jam

Allow the jam to cool completely before storing. This will take several hours.
Pour the cooled jam into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any jam residue.
Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
For short-term storage: Store the jars of jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
For long-term storage: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. Once cooled, check the seals and store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
To freeze the jam: Pour the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date. Jam can be frozen for up to 6 months.
When ready to use frozen jam, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. Once thawed, store the jam in the refrigerator and use within 1 month.

How To Reheat Leftover Sparkling Holiday Jam

To reheat leftover sparkling holiday jam, start by removing the lid from the jar and placing the jar in a saucepan filled with enough water to reach halfway up the sides of the jar.
Heat the water over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, stirring the jam occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching.
Once the jam is heated through and has reached your desired temperature, carefully remove the jar from the water using tongs or a jar lifter.
If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a small amount of water, apple juice, or orange juice to the jam while reheating, stirring well to incorporate.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat individual portions of jam in the microwave. Simply spoon the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the jam is heated to your liking.
If you find that your reheated jam has lost some of its original sparkle or freshness, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of citric acid to brighten up the flavors.
When reheating jam, be sure to use a clean utensil each time you scoop from the jar to avoid introducing any bacteria that could cause the jam to spoil more quickly.

Random Fact about Sparkling Holiday Jam

The holiday jam recipe is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of the season. It's a perfect way to enjoy the taste of strawberries and cranberries all year round. This jam can be a great addition to your holiday table or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. Plus, the sparkling holiday jam adds a festive touch to any meal.

Is Making Sparkling Holiday Jam Economical for Home Cooking?

This sparkling holiday jam recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of seasonal strawberries and cranberries makes it budget-friendly. The yield of the recipe is substantial, providing a large quantity of jam for a relatively low cost. The ingredients are commonly found and reasonably priced, making it accessible to most households. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, depending on the availability and pricing of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Sparkling Holiday Jam Healthy or Unhealthy?

This sparkling holiday jam recipe, while festive and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content: The recipe calls for 5 lbs of white sugar, which is a significant amount. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugar can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Low nutritional value: Although strawberries and cranberries offer some vitamins and antioxidants, the high sugar content overshadows their nutritional benefits.
Processed ingredients: The use of powdered fruit pectin and margarine adds to the processed nature of the recipe, which is generally less healthy than using whole, natural ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar by half or more, depending on your taste preferences. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates, which offer some additional nutrients.
Increase the proportion of fruit to sugar, which will boost the jam's nutritional value and fiber content.
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible, and opt for organic produce to minimize exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Replace the margarine with a healthier alternative, such as grass-fed butter or coconut oil, which contain beneficial fatty acids.
Add some chia seeds or ground flax seeds to the recipe, as they are rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds can also help thicken the jam naturally, reducing the need for pectin.
Experiment with spices like cinnamon, ginger, or vanilla, which can enhance the flavor without adding extra sugar.

Editor's Opinion on This Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe

This sparkling holiday jam recipe is a delightful blend of strawberries and cranberries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of powdered fruit pectin ensures a lovely, spreadable consistency. The use of white sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, resulting in a vibrant and festive jam. The quick boiling method helps to preserve the fresh flavors and vibrant colors of the fruits. This jam would be a delightful addition to any holiday table, whether spread on warm scones or used as a glaze for roasted meats.

Enhance Your Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a zesty honey-lime dressing

Alternative Recipes Similar to Sparkling Holiday Jam

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings to stuff bell peppers and bake until tender. Top with cheese and serve hot.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Cook fettuccine pasta and toss with a creamy alfredo sauce made with butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Add grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal.

Mixed Berry Crisp: Combine fresh or frozen mixed berries with a crumbly oat topping and bake until bubbly and golden brown. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Sparkling Holiday Jam

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a decadent mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect way to start off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. These colorful and flavorful skewers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a mouthwatering grilled dish featuring fresh salmon fillets marinated in a zesty citrus and herb blend. The salmon is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful main course that is sure to impress your guests.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Prepare a delightful main course by stuffing colorful bell peppers with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices. The peppers are then baked until tender, creating a satisfying and visually appealing dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for the holiday season. The combination of fresh strawberries and cranberries creates a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of powdered fruit pectin ensures a perfect jam consistency, while the white sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. The use of margarine helps to enhance the texture and flavor. With these high-quality ingredients, this sparkling holiday jam is a delicious and trustworthy addition to any festive spread.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Sparkling Holiday Jam Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried and how this festive jam turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before using and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but it may affect the consistency and shelf life of the jam. It's best to follow the recipe for the best results.

How long can I store the jam?

When properly sealed and processed, the jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.

Can I use this jam for baking or cooking?

Absolutely! This jam is versatile and can be used in various recipes, such as filling for pastries, topping for desserts, or glaze for meats.

Can I skip the boiling water bath process?

The boiling water bath process is essential for preserving the jam and creating a proper seal. Skipping this step may result in the jam not being properly preserved.