Christmas Jelly: A Festive and Flavorful Homemade Treat

Christmas Jelly is a delightful homemade preserve that captures the essence of the holiday season in a jar. This sweet, ruby-red jelly, often made with a mix of winter spices and fruits, is a perfect addition to your Christmas breakfast table or as a thoughtful homemade gift. It’s a festive way to spread holiday cheer and enjoy the flavors of the season.

A Sweet Addition to Holiday Celebrations

Christmas Jelly combines the traditional flavors of Christmas – like cranberries, oranges, and a variety of warming spices – resulting in a spread that’s both delicious and reminiscent of holiday joy. Whether spread on toast, as a glaze for meats, or simply enjoyed as a sweet treat, this jelly brings a touch of homemade warmth to any holiday occasion.

You can also try this Christmas Baklava with Walnuts: A Festive Twist Dessert

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cranberry juice
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 package (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

Preparing the Ingredients:

  1. Combine Juices and Spices: In a large saucepan, mix together cranberry juice, orange juice, and lemon juice. If using, add the ground cinnamon and cloves (or a cinnamon stick) for a spiced flavor.

Cooking the Jelly:

  1. Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
  2. Add Pectin: Stir in the powdered pectin and continue to boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Add Sugar: Add the granulated sugar to the boiling mixture and return to a rolling boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Remove from Heat: After boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Skim off any foam with a metal spoon.

Canning the Jelly:

  1. Prepare Jars: Sterilize your jars and lids in boiling water or a dishwasher.
  2. Fill Jars with Jelly: Ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims and threads clean.
  3. Seal Jars: Place lids on the jars and screw the bands on until fingertip tight.
  4. Process Jars: Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 5 minutes.
  5. Cool Jars: Remove the jars and let them cool on a wire rack without touching them for 24 hours. Check seals, then store them in a cool, dark place.

Serving:

  1. Enjoy: Serve your Christmas Jelly on toast, as a condiment, or use it to glaze meats. Enjoy the festive and fruity flavors of this special holiday treat!

Conclusion

Christmas Jelly is a simple yet wonderful way to bring a homemade touch to your holiday festivities. Its vibrant color and delightful flavor make it a festive addition to any meal or a charming gift for friends and family. This recipe is not just about creating a delicious spread; it’s about capturing the joy and warmth of the holiday season in a jar.

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