Why Amish Christmas Jam is the Perfect Holiday Treat5 Delightful Ways to Use Amish Christmas Jam This Season

Tired of gifting the same predictable treats every holiday season? The secret to standing out might be hiding in a humble jar of Amish Christmas Jam.

This vibrant, ruby-red spread has been a cherished tradition in Amish communities for generations, but remains surprisingly unknown to many outside those circles.

As a culinary explorer at Cooks Foody, I discovered Amish Christmas Jam during a winter visit to Lancaster County. What began as a simple farmers’ market purchase became an obsession to master this perfect balance of strawberries and cranberries with holiday spices.

The result? A versatile preserve that’s transformed our holiday entertaining and gift-giving traditions.

In this guide, you’ll discover what makes Amish Christmas Jam so special, how to create the perfect batch at home, creative ways to enjoy it beyond toast, and why it deserves a permanent spot in your holiday traditions. Let’s unwrap the delicious secrets of this festive treat!

Why Amish Christmas Jam Works So Wonderfully

• Creates the perfect balance of tart cranberries and sweet strawberries
• Uses simple, natural ingredients available year-round (fresh or frozen berries work!)
• Requires minimal equipment and no specialized canning knowledge
• Makes an impressive homemade gift that lasts for months
• Adds a festive touch to holiday breakfasts, appetizers, and desserts
• Can be prepared weeks ahead of Christmas for stress-free entertaining
• Captures the spirit of Amish tradition: simplicity, resourcefulness, and community

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Amish Christmas Jam

Best Berries for Amish Christmas Jam

The classic Amish Christmas Jam combines cranberries and strawberries in equal parts. The cranberries provide tartness and natural pectin, while strawberries add sweetness and that signature ruby color. For the freshest flavor:

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal and widely available from October through December. If making jam off-season, frozen cranberries work perfectly without thawing.
• Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best flavor, but quality frozen berries make this an all-season possibility.

Sweeteners and Spices for Authentic Amish Christmas Jam

Traditional Amish Christmas Jam balances fruit with the right sweeteners and warm spices:

• Granulated sugar is traditional, though some modern recipes incorporate a touch of honey
• Lemon juice brightens flavors and helps with setting
• Optional spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves (use sparingly to avoid overpowering the fruit)

Substitutions for Amish Christmas Jam

While traditional Amish Christmas Jam has a specific flavor profile, these alternatives work well:

• Raspberries can replace strawberries for a more intense berry flavor
• Blueberries can substitute for half the strawberries for a deeper color and flavor
• For lower-sugar versions, consider pectin specifically formulated for reduced-sugar recipes

Ingredients & Prep for Amish Christmas Jam

Amish Christmas Jam Essentials

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 cups hulled and chopped strawberries
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• Optional: ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg

Berry Preparation for Amish Christmas Jam

Before combining ingredients, properly prepare your berries:

• Rinse cranberries and remove any soft or damaged ones
• Hull strawberries and chop into ¼-inch pieces (smaller pieces distribute better throughout the jam)
• If using frozen berries, measure while still frozen for accurate quantities

Canning Supplies for Amish Christmas Jam

For proper preservation of your Amish Christmas Jam:

• 5-6 half-pint (8 oz) canning jars with new lids
• Large pot for water bath canning
• Jar lifter and funnel
• Clean kitchen towels for handling hot jars

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Amish Christmas Jam

Pre-Cooking Prep for Amish Christmas Jam

1. Sterilize jars and lids by washing in hot, soapy water, then placing jars in a 225°F oven for 10 minutes
2. Place a small plate in the freezer (for testing jam consistency later)
3. Combine cranberries and water in a large, heavy-bottomed pot

Cooking Method for Amish Christmas Jam

1. Bring cranberries and water to a boil over medium-high heat
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until cranberries pop, about 5-7 minutes
3. Add strawberries and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until softened
4. Stir in sugar and lemon juice, bringing mixture back to a full rolling boil
5. Boil hard for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching
6. If using, add cinnamon and nutmeg during the final minute of cooking

Doneness Check for Amish Christmas Jam

To ensure your Amish Christmas Jam has reached the proper consistency:

1. Place a small spoonful of jam on the chilled plate from the freezer
2. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then run your finger through it
3. If the line remains clear and the jam doesn’t immediately flow back together, it’s ready
4. If it’s still too runny, continue boiling for 1-2 minute intervals and test again

Preserving Amish Christmas Jam

1. Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace
2. Wipe jar rims clean with a damp paper towel
3. Apply lids and bands, tightening just until finger-tight
4. Process in a water bath for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary)
5. Remove jars and allow to cool completely (12-24 hours) before checking seals

Pro Tips for Perfect Amish Christmas Jam

Avoiding Common Amish Christmas Jam Mistakes

• Don’t reduce sugar quantities without adjusting pectin—sugar is crucial for proper setting
• Avoid overcooking which can give jam a caramelized taste that masks the fresh berry flavor
• Never double the recipe in a single batch—make multiple separate batches for best results
• If foam forms during cooking, skim it off before filling jars for clearer, more attractive jam

Tool Recommendations for Amish Christmas Jam

• Wide-mouth funnel prevents messy spills when filling jars
• Candy thermometer helps identify when jam reaches setting point (220°F at sea level)
• Wooden spoon prevents scorching better than metal utensils
• Food processor makes quick work of chopping strawberries to uniform size

Storage & Serving Amish Christmas Jam

• Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year
• Refrigerate after opening and use within 3 weeks
• For gift-giving, add a decorative fabric cover, ribbon, and handwritten label

Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out our delicious cake collection for the perfect dessert to pair with your Amish Christmas Jam!

Flavor Variations for Amish Christmas Jam

Spicy Twist for Amish Christmas Jam

Add unexpected warmth with these variations:

• Incorporate ¼ teaspoon ground ginger for subtle heat
• Add 2 tablespoons of finely minced crystallized ginger for texture and zing
• For bold flavor, include a pinch of ground cardamom or star anise

Holiday-Inspired Amish Christmas Jam Variations

Customize your jam with these festive additions:

• Orange zest (1 tablespoon) adds bright citrus notes
• A splash (2 teaspoons) of pure vanilla extract enhances sweetness
• A pinch of ground cloves evokes traditional holiday baking

Reduced-Sugar Amish Christmas Jam Options

For those seeking less sweetness:

• Use special low-sugar pectin and follow manufacturer’s instructions
• Incorporate naturally sweet apple juice instead of some water
• Consider monk fruit sweetener for partial sugar replacement

Serving Suggestions for Amish Christmas Jam

Amish Christmas Jam goes far beyond the breakfast table. Try these delicious pairings:

• Spread on warm Candy Cane Brownie Bombs for an extra festive treat
• Use as filling between vanilla cake layers for a showstopping holiday dessert
• Spoon over cream cheese on a holiday charcuterie board with crackers
• Mix with cream cheese for a quick fruit dip with graham crackers
• Warm slightly and drizzle over vanilla ice cream
• Use as glaze for roasted sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of cinnamon
• Layer in parfaits with Greek yogurt and granola
• Spread inside crepes with a dollop of whipped cream
• Use as filling for thumbprint cookies or linzer cookies
• Stir into oatmeal for festive breakfast bowls

Want another sweet homemade gift idea? Our No-Bake Cherry Bourbon Balls pair perfectly with Amish Christmas Jam for holiday gifting!

FAQs About Amish Christmas Jam

How long does Amish Christmas Jam last?
When properly sealed and processed, Amish Christmas Jam can last up to 12 months in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks.

Why didn’t my Amish Christmas Jam set properly?
This jam relies on cranberries’ natural pectin. If your jam is too runny, you may have used too few cranberries, overripe berries, or not cooked it long enough to reach setting temperature (220°F).

Can I freeze Amish Christmas Jam instead of canning?
Yes! Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving ½-inch headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Is Amish Christmas Jam actually made by the Amish?
Yes, this recipe originated in Amish communities where practical preservation methods and holiday traditions merge. The simple ingredient list and practicality reflect Amish values of resourcefulness and minimal waste.

Can I use artificial sweeteners in Amish Christmas Jam?
Traditional recipes use sugar which helps with preservation and setting. If using artificial sweeteners, you’ll need to add commercial pectin specifically formulated for sugar-free preserves.

For more delicious inspiration, check out our Pinterest page where we share seasonal recipes and beautiful food photography daily!

Conclusion

Amish Christmas Jam brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special a spread that captures holiday cheer in every spoonful. Whether you’re making it as a thoughtful homemade gift, serving it at holiday breakfasts, or incorporating it into your dessert spread, this versatile preserve deserves a place in your seasonal traditions.

Why Amish Christmas Jam is the Perfect Holiday Treat5 Delightful Ways to Use Amish Christmas Jam This Season

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• Author: Jack
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 5 half-pint jars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A cozy, old-fashioned Amish-style jam made with strawberries, cranberries, and warm spices sweet, tart, and perfect for gifting or spreading on holiday breads.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

2 cups sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)

1 (1.75 oz) box powdered fruit pectin

4 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup orange juice

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground cloves

1/4 tsp nutmeg

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, strawberries, and orange juice.

2. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook until cranberries begin to pop and soften, about 10 minutes.

3. Use a potato masher to crush the fruit to desired texture.

4. Stir in cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and powdered pectin.

5. Return to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.

6. Add sugar all at once and stir until dissolved.

7. Boil hard for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

8. Skim off any foam and ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.

9. Wipe rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (optional for longer storage).

10. Cool jars completely before labeling.

Notes

Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Refrigerate after opening.

Delicious on toast, biscuits, or as a glaze for ham or poultry.

For a deeper flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract after removing from heat.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Amish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tbsp
• Calories: 45
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Amish Christmas jam, cranberry strawberry jam, holiday preserves, spiced jam recipe