13 Merry Christmas Jam Recipes
Homemade DIY Merry Christmas jam recipes to enjoy a sweet treat at home this season or gift to family and friends.
When I Started Making Christmas Jam
Every year, like clockwork, around mid-November, my kitchen turns into what we call “Santa’s sticky workshop” for a few days. That’s when I pull out my biggest pot, the cinnamon sticks, and the secret stash of frozen strawberries and cranberries.
It’s Christmas Jam time—a tradition that started when I was a newer mom, overwhelmed, exhausted, and desperate for a homemade gift that didn’t require Pinterest-level perfection.
I remember that first batch vividly: I was wearing a baby in a wrap, had a toddler at my feet with a wooden spoon, and was stirring while silently praying it would actually taste good.
Spoiler alert: it tasted like Christmas in a jar.
Sweet strawberries, tart cranberries, a hint of orange zest and warm spices—it was like bottling up joy.
That year, I handed out jars to neighbors and friends and every single one came back the next year asking, “Are you making that jam again?”
Now it’s not just a gift—it’s a ritual.
My kids help wash the fruit and argue over who gets to sprinkle in the cloves. We play Christmas music too early, make a glorious mess, and the house smells like magic.
I make extra batches now, not just for gifting but to sneak a spoonful when I need a reminder of the sweet, simple things. Because Christmas Jam isn’t just jam—it’s tradition, love, and a little bit of sanity preserved in a jar.
When I was new to the whole jelly and jam making endeavor I would follow recipes to a T. But as I gained confidence I started tweaking them to be even healthier. Basically it means I did what I always do with recipes… figure out how to make them sugar-free (and sometimes gluten free) or at least with reduction of those things.
So let me tell you that you can pretty much swap the sugar for monk fruit in any jam recipe. I still like to add a little sugar… maybe 1/4 or 1/8 of what is called for to keep the flavor more traditional. But if it’s jsut for me I omit it completely.
Some more of my top Christmas recipes you might love:
- Christmas Dinner Main Dish Ideas
- The Best Christmas Dinner Sides
- Festive Christmas Salad Recipes
- Festive Christmas Appetizers
- Christmas Treats and Desserts You’ll Love
Christmas Jam Recipes for the Holidays
These are perfect to enjoy all season (or actually can to enjoy all year) at home or make fabulous gifts for teachers, neighbors, family, and friends!
Festive Cranberry Apple Relish
My family favorite recipe you’ll love. The jar of cran-apple relish with a touch of citrus was practically licked clean by my guests.
Homemade Violet Jelly Recipe
Are you feeling a bit adventurous in the kitchen? Then why not try your hand at making something unique and delicious – Sweet Violet Jelly! This fun and simple homemade Violet Jelly recipe will have your friends asking for seconds.
Easy Homemade Pear Jam
The delightful taste of fruit with this luscious spiced pear jam recipe! Sweet pears combined with warm spices and sugar create a homemade jam like no other. It’s like a comforting hug in a jar!
Cranberry Bacon Jam Recipe
Cranberry Bacon Jam Recipe- made with or without cranberries, this deliciously addicting, sweet and salty combination is made with easy to find ingredients such as onions, bacon, brown sugar, and cranberries.
Raspberry Jam Recipe
This Raspberry Jam recipe is incredibly easy to make and is perfect spread on toast, biscuits, or sandwiches.
Easy Instant Pot Cherry Jam
Make Instant Pot Cherry Jam in just a few minutes and with only 6 everyday ingredients! This healthier cherry jam recipe uses chia seeds instead of pectin or cornstarch and maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
Orange Peel Marmalade
This orange peel marmalade recipe is a fantastic Scottish twist on plain Seville orange marmalade. Made with three different citrus fruits and Drambuie liqueur, it’s a winner!
Balsamic Blueberry Jam
This recipe is sweet (but not too sweet), easy to make, packed full of great blueberry nutrients, and perfect for your morning toast. Let’s jump into my Balsamic Blueberry Jam!
Sugar Free Chia Jam
You can make this easy keto and sugar-free chia jam from any frozen or fresh berries in under 5 minutes and have it right away, or wait for a couple of hours until the chia sets it harder.
Instant Pot Peach Jam
Perfectly smooth peach jam bursting with the flavor of fresh, juicy peaches. No more slaving over a hot stove, with this easy instant pot recipe.
Christmas Jam Recipe
If you’re looking for the perfect homemade jam filled with tasty holiday spices, then this Christmas Jam is a must-try.
Cranberry Orange Jam
Packed with vibrant cranberries and a little orange flavor, this homemade Cranberry Orange Jam is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Low Sugar Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe
Make the easiest beginner friendly Strawberry Freezer Jam with this low sugar recipe. Includes tips for perfect results, how to fix runny jam and free printable strawberry jam labels for a boutique look!
