Spiced Christmas Apple Jam

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The comforting scent of cinnamon, cloves, and simmering apples is a sure sign the holidays have arrived. This Spiced Christmas Apple Jam captures all the warmth and nostalgic flavors of the season in a single jar. Made with tart apples, brown sugar, and cozy spices, it’s the perfect way to spread a little cheer on toast, biscuits, or even as a thoughtful edible gift.

There’s something magical about preserving the best of winter produce into a sweet, spiced jam that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re planning a Christmas brunch or just want to elevate your breakfast game all month long, this jam brings the sparkle of the season into every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Christmas Apple Jam

This jam isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile, easy to make, and incredibly festive. The blend of apples and spices makes it taste like apple pie in a jar. It makes a gorgeous homemade gift and is a great way to use up extra apples during the holiday season. No special equipment required, just a pot and a bit of patience.

Can I Use Any Type of Apple for Christmas Jam?

Yes, but the type of apple you choose will affect the texture and flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smiths hold their shape and give a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp create a smoother, richer jam. You can even mix a few varieties for a well-rounded flavor.

Ingredients for the Spiced Christmas Apple Jam

For this jam, you want a balance of sweet, tart, and aromatic. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that deep, warm, festive flavor.

• Apples
• Brown sugar
• Lemon juice
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Apple cider

How To Make the Spiced Christmas Apple Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and finely dice the apples. The finer the dice, the smoother the texture of your final jam.

Step 2: Combine and Cook

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, apple cider, and all the spices. Stir everything together and let it sit for 10 minutes to help the apples release their juices.

Step 3: Simmer Until Thickened

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Then lower the heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the jam thickens and the apples become tender. Use a potato masher for a smoother consistency or leave it chunky if you like more texture.

Step 4: Stir in Vanilla

Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.

Step 5: Store or Gift

Seal the jars and store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or process in a water bath if you’re preserving them longer term. Tie with ribbon and a handwritten label for a charming holiday gift.

How to Store and Serve Spiced Christmas Apple Jam

This festive jam makes about 4 small jars, perfect for gifting or enjoying throughout December. Store sealed jars in the fridge and use within three weeks. If you’re canning for long-term storage, make sure to follow proper sterilization and water-bath methods.

Serve the jam spread on warm toast, spooned over pancakes, or paired with soft cheese on a cracker board. It’s also a cozy addition stirred into oatmeal or spooned onto vanilla ice cream for an effortless dessert.

What to Serve With Spiced Apple Jam?

Warm Buttery Biscuits

A thick slather of jam on a flaky biscuit is holiday breakfast perfection.

Brie or Camembert Cheese

The sweet and spicy jam pairs beautifully with creamy soft cheeses.

Pancakes or Waffles

Drizzle over your favorite morning stack instead of syrup.

Roasted Pork or Turkey

Use as a glaze or condiment to add a holiday twist to your main dish.

Yogurt Parfaits

Layer with granola and plain or vanilla yogurt for a festive snack.

Ice Cream

Spoon over vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a quick holiday dessert.

Toasted Sourdough

Let the jam shine on rustic bread with a little butter.

Want More Jam and Spread Ideas?

If you love this cozy jam, you might want to check out these other flavorful creations:

• Classic French Butter Cookies for pairing with jam on a holiday tray.
• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake that would love a swipe of apple spice jam.
• Decadent Pistachio Cream Cake to contrast with the spiced fruit flavor.
• Peanut Butter Smores Sandwich Cookies that bring another layer of fun to dessert platters.
• Lemon Truffles Recipe for a citrusy companion to your jam-spread cookies.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can return to it during your holiday prep.

And if you made this jam, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you keep it chunky or smooth it out? Did you use all Granny Smiths or mix in some Honeycrisps?

Let’s chat in the comments! I love seeing the cozy ways you make these recipes your own.

Explore beautifully curated jams, festive spreads, and holiday bakes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your new seasonal favorites!

Conclusion

Spiced Christmas Apple Jam brings the joy of the season into every jar with its warm spices, comforting texture, and sweet apple goodness. Whether you’re gifting it or enjoying it spoonful by spoonful, it’s a little bit of holiday magic you can make in your own kitchen.

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