Name: Crispy Shrimp Cutlet (Prawn Fritters) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces cranberries; 8 ounces strawberries, trimmed and halved or quartered; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 cup granulated sugar

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If you’re looking to add a burst of vibrant flavor to your holiday spread, Christmas Jam is a delightful sweet-and-tart refrigerator-style jam made from fresh cranberries and strawberries combined with lemon juice and sugar. This quick and easy jam is perfect for spreading on holiday cheese boards or gifting during the festive season.

Ingredients You'll Need

Two bowls with strawberries and cranberries, lemon slices, and a measuring cup of sugar.

Gathering the right ingredients for this jam is wonderfully straightforward. Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.

Fruits and Flavorings

8 ounces cranberries
8 ounces strawberries, trimmed and halved or quartered
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Sweetener

½ cup granulated sugar

How to Make Christmas Jam

Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, add the cranberries, strawberries, lemon juice, and granulated sugar, mixing them together evenly.

Mash fruits and bring to boil: Use a potato masher to gently crush the fruit mixture to release the juices. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer and thicken: Reduce the heat to low and allow the jam to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Cool and store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool. Transfer the cooled jam into a clean glass jar and store it in the refrigerator.

How to Serve Christmas Jam

A shiny metal pot sits on a white marbled surface with a green cloth nearby. Inside the pot, there is one layer of small red cranberries at the bottom, topped with a second layer of large sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of white granulated sugar on top.

Garnishes

Serve the jam with a holiday cheese board, spreading it on soft cheeses or pairing with crackers. A sprig of fresh herbs or a thin lemon slice on the serving plate makes a pretty presentation when gifting jars.

Side Suggestions

Christmas jam is excellent with toasted bread, scones, yogurt, or as a festive condiment alongside roasted meats and cheeses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This jam is a refrigerator-style jam and does not require canning or preservatives. Transfer cooled jam to a clean glass jar and store it in the refrigerator. Refrigerated jam should be consumed within 2 to 3 weeks for optimal quality. Allow the jam to cool completely before sealing the jar to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you prefer to keep jam longer, you may freeze portions in freezer-safe containers; thaw in the refrigerator before use. (The recipe card does not require canning; freezing is an optional extra step.)

FAQs

Can I use frozen fruit for this recipe?

Yes. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to avoid diluting the jam.

Is canning required for this jam?

No. This is a refrigerator-style jam and does not require canning or preservatives. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2–3 weeks.

How long does it take to make?

Prep is about 5 minutes and cooking (simmering) is about 15 to 20 minutes, for a total time of roughly 25 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Jam is a simple, quick, and festive recipe that showcases the bright flavors of cranberries and strawberries. It’s perfect for holiday gifting, cheese boards, or simply enjoying at home.