Made 3 batches today for gifting! I get loads of compliments every time!

Spiced Christmas Jam is a delightful treat that conjures up the very essence of the holiday season. It seamlessly blends the warmth of spices with the sweet and tartness of winter fruits. This jam typically finds its roots in home kitchens where families gather to prepare for Christmas, capturing the flavors and aromas of the holidays in a jar. Not only does it serve as a delectable spread, but also as a heartfelt homemade gift. Melding the traditional fruits of the festive season with aromatic spices, Spiced Christmas Jam is a preserve that encapsulates the joy and generosity of Christmas.

When it comes to savoring this Spiced Christmas Jam, the possibilities are as festive as the spread itself. It is perfect when slathered over warm, buttery toast on a chilly morning or used as a filling for pastries and thumbprint cookies. For a more sophisticated twist, it can accompany a cheese platter, pairing especially well with soft, creamy cheeses. During the holiday season, Spiced Christmas Jam can add a special touch to the breakfast table or serve as an exquisite topping for desserts at your Christmas feast.

Ingredients:

- 4 cups finely chopped pitted peeled peaches or nectarines
- 2 cups finely chopped seeded orange
- 1 cup finely chopped cranberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 pouch (6 ounces) liquid fruit pectin

Instructions:

1. In a large, deep stainless steel saucepan, combine the peaches, orange, cranberries, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir in the sugar and water, making sure to blend well.

2. Over high heat, bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Stir frequently to prevent scorching. Once boiling, quickly add the liquid fruit pectin, continuing to stir vigorously.

3. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Remove from heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.

4. Ladle the hot jam into prepared jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the jar rims clean and center the lids on the jars, applying the bands until fingertip tight.

5. Process the filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary. After processing, remove the jars and let them cool on a rack, undisturbed, for 24 hours before checking the seals. Store in a cool, dry place.

Serve your Spiced Christmas Jam proudly, as it embodies the very spirit of the season: sharing, caring, and indulging in the delicious flavors that make the holiday time so special.