Easy Cranberry Strawberry Crockpot Jam Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’ll find that making preserves at home gives you this cozy feeling, especially during the holidays. That’s why I’m super excited to share my Easy Cranberry Strawberry Crockpot Jam Recipe—it’s a total game-changer. Not only does it fill your kitchen with the most delightful aroma, but it also requires minimal hands-on time, so you can get cozy somewhere else while it does its magic!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing the right ingredients makes all the difference in this Easy Cranberry Strawberry Crockpot Jam Recipe. The combination of tart cranberries balanced with sweet strawberries, plus a hint of warm spices, delivers a jam that feels festive but not overpowering.

• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work equally well; they’re the star ingredient giving the jam that signature tang.
• Strawberries: Adds sweetness and depth, fresh or frozen is totally fine, and they break down beautifully in the crockpot.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness without masking natural fruit flavors.
• Light brown sugar: Infuses a subtle caramel note and richness.
• Ground allspice: Gives that cozy, festive vibe—think of autumn in a jar!
• Ground cinnamon: A classic warming spice that pairs perfectly with berries.
• Ground ginger: Adds a tiny kick and brightens flavors.
• Orange zest or lemon juice (optional): Enhances brightness and complexity—feel free to add if you love that citrusy zing.

Variations

I love experimenting with this jam recipe to suit different tastes and occasions. Don’t hesitate to personalize it—this is a wonderfully forgiving one to play with!

• Swap the Spices: Sometimes, I swap allspice for a bit of nutmeg or clove to give it a slightly different holiday twist.
• Go Sugar-Free: Try using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind you might need to adjust cooking time slightly.
• Fresh Fruits Only: When strawberries are in season, fresh ones give a brighter, juicier texture that I absolutely love.
• Add Zest or Juice: I discovered adding orange zest or lemon juice kickstarts the brightness and balances the sweetness, especially if your berries are extra ripe.

How to Make Easy Cranberry Strawberry Crockpot Jam Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients in the Crockpot

Start by adding your cranberries, strawberries, both kinds of sugar, and your spices directly into the crockpot. If you’re using orange zest or lemon juice, toss that in now too. Give everything a good stir to combine evenly—this ensures the sugars will start melting and the spices will distribute throughout your jam. I love how easy this is: no need to pre-cook or slice the berries; the crockpot will do the work.

Step 2: Cook, Stir, and Let Flavors Develop

Cover your crockpot and set it to high heat. Let it cook for about four hours, stirring once carefully about halfway through. This little stir breaks up the berries a bit and prevents sticking without interrupting the magic. You’ll notice the jam thickening and the kitchen filling with an irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Blend to Your Perfect Jam Texture

Once the jam has cooked down and thickened, it’s time to blend. I recommend using an immersion blender right in the crockpot to keep it simple. Pulse just two to three times—you want to keep a jam-like texture with little chunks of fruit, not smooth puree. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the mixture carefully to a countertop blender in batches and pulse briefly. This step took me a couple tries to get just right, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Jar and Chill

Spoon the hot jam into clean jars, being careful to wipe the rims so nothing prevents a good seal if you want to can or store long term. Screw the lids on lightly and let the jars cool at room temperature. The jam thickens further as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little loose right out of the crockpot.

Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight and Enjoy

Once the jars are room temperature, pop them in the fridge and let the jam rest overnight. This settles flavors and texture perfectly. I always sneak a spoonful the next day—it’s so addictive with a slice of toast or even dolloped onto yogurt.

How to Serve Easy Cranberry Strawberry Crockpot Jam Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping a toast smeared with this jam with a few fresh mint leaves or a light sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a bit of texture and freshness. Sometimes a tiny dusting of powdered sugar looks pretty when you’re serving it at brunch.

Side Dishes

This jam is a fantastic companion to warm buttermilk pancakes or waffles. I also adore pairing it with soft cream cheese on bagels or as a bright sweet-tart addition to a cheese board alongside nuts and meats.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I like to serve this jam in small glass jars tied with festive ribbon. You can even gift homemade jam this way! Also, try swirling it into plain Greek yogurt topped with granola and fresh fruit for a beautiful layered parfait presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover jam jars sealed in the refrigerator, which keeps it fresh for up to three weeks. Make sure to always use a clean spoon to scoop to avoid contamination and extend that shelf life.

Freezing

Freezing homemade jam works beautifully if you want to stock up. I spoon mine into freezer-safe containers leaving some headspace, and it keeps well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to use.

Reheating

If your jam separates a bit after freezing or refrigeration, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat while stirring. This brings back that perfect spreadable consistency without cooking it further.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cranberry Strawberry Crockpot Jam Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite homemade treats because it combines festive flavors with such simple preparation. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your breakfast or gift something homemade and heartfelt, this jam hits the spot. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s like capturing the holiday spirit in a jar!

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