Amish Christmas Jam
This festive homemade jam blends strawberries, cranberries, pineapple, and cinnamon for a sweet-tart preserve perfect for holiday breakfasts, gifting, or adding cheer to any meal. It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free and vegan, and brings nostalgic comfort to your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 half-pint jars (about 48 servings, 1 tablespoon each) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Cuisine: Amish, American
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 packet fruit pectin (about 1.75 oz)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Rinse and hull strawberries; slice into halves or quarters. Rinse cranberries. If using frozen fruit, add directly to the pot.
- Add strawberries, cranberries, and crushed pineapple to a large heavy-bottomed pot. Pour in lemon juice and stir gently to combine.
- Place pot over medium-high heat. Stir constantly as juices release for 5-7 minutes. Use a potato masher to break up fruit to desired texture.
- Add granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium.
- Sprinkle fruit pectin evenly over the mixture and stir well to incorporate.
- Increase heat and bring mixture to a rolling boil. Boil hard for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Test set by dropping a spoonful on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s set.
- Using a ladle and funnel, fill sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims, place lids, and screw on rings until fingertip-tight.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if needed).
- Remove jars and let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check lids for proper seal. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate opened jars and use within 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Use ripe but not overripe fruit for best set. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. The jam is naturally vegan and gluten-free. For a low-sugar version, use half the sugar and low-sugar pectin. Substitute apple or pear for pineapple if desired. Test set with the wrinkle test on a cold plate. Sealed jars last up to 1 year; refrigerate after opening.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 1
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 0.5
Keywords: Christmas jam, Amish jam, holiday preserves, homemade jam, festive canning, strawberry cranberry jam, gluten-free jam, vegan jam, easy jam recipe