Easy Crockpot Christmas Jam with Cranberries and Strawberries
Few recipes capture the magic of the holidays quite like Easy Crockpot Christmas Jam with Cranberries and Strawberries. Vibrant, sweet-tart, and infused with warm seasonal spices, this slow cooker jam feels festive, comforting, and delightfully homemade. Best of all, it requires no standing over the stove, no complicated canning knowledge, and no stress—making it perfect for busy holiday seasons.
This crockpot Christmas jam combines the bold tang of fresh cranberries with the natural sweetness of strawberries, creating a ruby-red spread that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether spooned over warm toast, swirled into yogurt, layered into desserts, or gifted in pretty jars, this jam has become a beloved holiday tradition in many homes.
Slow cooker jam recipes have gained popularity for good reason. The gentle, even heat of the crockpot allows fruit to break down naturally while flavors deepen over time. Instead of rushing the process, this recipe lets patience do the work, resulting in a thick, glossy jam with incredible depth.
Unlike traditional stovetop jam, this recipe is forgiving. You don’t need a candy thermometer, constant stirring, or perfect timing. Simply add the ingredients, let them simmer slowly, and blend to your desired texture. It’s ideal for beginners and experienced home cooks alike.
Why This Crockpot Christmas Jam Is a Holiday Favorite
This cranberry strawberry jam is more than just a spread—it’s a seasonal experience. The aroma alone fills your kitchen with cozy holiday vibes as cranberries burst and strawberries melt into sweetness. Warm spices like cinnamon and cloves subtly perfume the mixture without overpowering the fruit.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its versatility. It works equally well as a breakfast topping, dessert component, or festive condiment for cheese boards. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift—something increasingly cherished in a season full of store-bought items.
Because this jam is made in the slow cooker, it’s also incredibly convenient. You can prepare it while wrapping gifts, decorating the house, or hosting guests. It practically cooks itself.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Granulated sugar
- Fresh lemon juice
- Orange zest
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground cloves (optional)
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and discard any soft or damaged berries. Hull and slice the strawberries.
- Add cranberries, strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and orange zest to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the fruit has completely softened and released its juices.
- Once the fruit is very tender, use an immersion blender to blend the jam to your preferred consistency. For a chunkier jam, blend briefly; for smoother jam, blend longer.
- Stir in cinnamon, cloves (if using), and vanilla extract.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking on high for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens to your liking.
- Allow the jam to cool slightly—it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer to clean jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Texture and Flavor Tips
- Too thin? Let the jam cook uncovered longer to evaporate excess moisture.
- Too thick? Stir in a small splash of orange juice or water until desired consistency is reached.
- Sweeter jam: Increase sugar slightly or add honey.
- More tart: Add extra cranberries or lemon juice.
Variations to Try
- Spiced Christmas Jam: Add nutmeg or allspice for deeper warmth.
- Berry Blend Jam: Substitute raspberries for half the strawberries.
- Orange-Forward Jam: Add extra zest and a splash of orange juice.
- Sugar-Reduced Version: Use less sugar and accept a looser set.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread on toast, croissants, or English muffins
- Spoon over pancakes or waffles
- Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt
- Serve alongside brie or goat cheese
- Use as a cake filling or thumbprint cookie center
- Glaze roasted meats for a sweet-tart finish
Holiday Gifting Ideas
This homemade Christmas jam makes a beautiful edible gift. Pour into small glass jars, add fabric lids or ribbon, and include a handwritten tag with serving suggestions. Pair with a loaf of homemade bread or crackers for a complete gift set.
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Cranberries have long been associated with winter holidays in North America, thanks to their harvest season and festive color. Combining them with strawberries softens their sharpness, making the flavor more approachable while keeping the signature tang. Slow cooker jam modernizes traditional preservation methods, blending old-fashioned flavors with modern convenience.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Refrigerator: up to 3 weeks
- Freezer: up to 6 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use
Final Thoughts
Easy Crockpot Christmas Jam with Cranberries and Strawberries is proof that holiday recipes don’t need to be complicated to be special. With minimal effort, simple ingredients, and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll end up with a jam that feels luxurious, festive, and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re making it for your family, your holiday table, or as gifts, this jam is guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite you’ll return to year after year.
Easy Crockpot Christmas Jam with Cranberries and Strawberries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add cranberries, strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and orange zest to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until fruit is very soft.
- Use an immersion blender to blend to desired consistency.
- Stir in cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla extract.
- Cook uncovered on high for 30–60 minutes until thickened.
- Cool slightly and transfer to jars. Refrigerate or freeze.
