Christmas Brunch Jam
A vibrant, sweet-tart jam combining pineapple and cherries, ideal for festive mornings or holiday gift-giving, offering a burst of tropical flavor with a colorful presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice.
- Chop cherries in blender.
- Combine pineapple, reserved juice, cherries, and sugar in a large nonaluminum Dutch oven, over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a full rolling boil and boil for 1 minute, stirring.
- Stir in liquid pectin.
- Boil for 1 minute more. Remove from heat and skim off foam.
- Let stand for 10 minutes. Ladle into hot sterilized jars.
- Leave 1/4-inch space in top of jar.
- Process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the pineapple and cherries more thoroughly. If you're out of liquid pectin, you can substitute with powdered pectin; however, follow the package instructions for the correct amount. To maintain the bright colors, avoid cooking the jam too long. This recipe is perfect for holiday gifting alongside homemade treats like Caramel Ice Cream Topping.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant jam is delightful spread on toast or pancakes at brunch. It pairs beautifully with yogurt or cream cheese for a festive cheese platter. Consider serving it alongside breakfast staples or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or vanilla ice cream. It also complements savory dishes, especially when paired with meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and consume within a month. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through to preserve the flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Brunch Jam contains roughly 42 calories, with 0g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple and cherries can be used, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they release enough juice. Be sure to chop the fruit finely and measure out the same amounts as specified for canned fruit.
How do I know when the jam is set?
You can test the jam by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate and letting it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape and does not run back together, it’s set. If not, continue boiling for another minute.
What if my jam is too sweet?
If the jam is too sweet for your taste, you can balance it with a bit of lemon juice. However, be cautious not to alter the sugar content too much, as it’s essential for preservation. Adding a pinch of salt can also enhance the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).