Cranberry Orange Jam: Easy Holiday Recipe

Name: Cranberry Orange Jam
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 16 ounces fresh cranberries; Juice and zest of 1 orange (juice should be about ½ cup); 1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and grated); 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)

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Cranberry Orange Jam is the perfect addition to your holiday table. This vibrant, tart jam pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from turkey sandwiches to brunch spreads. It’s an easy recipe that uses simple ingredients, making it the ideal choice for both novice and seasoned jam makers. Whether you’re preparing it as a festive gift or enjoying it yourself, this cranberry orange jam will add a delightful zing to your season.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Jam Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Jam is a versatile and flavorful recipe that takes advantage of seasonal ingredients. Its bright, tangy profile from fresh cranberries and the sweetness of orange zest and juice make it an excellent condiment for any holiday meal. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time. You’ll love how quickly this jam comes together, and it’s a great option for a hostess gift or a homemade treat for friends and family.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Jam

Creating this cranberry orange jam requires just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand:

• Cranberries: These provide the jam’s main tart flavor and are full of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Orange Zest and Juice: Adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Apple: Used to naturally thicken the jam, apples are rich in pectin, which helps achieve the perfect jam consistency.
• Sugar: Granulated or superfine sugar is needed to sweeten the jam and bring out the flavors of the fruit.
• Orange Liqueur: Optional but adds an extra layer of citrus depth. Popular choices include Cointreau or a Spanish liqueur called 43.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you need to modify this recipe for dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are a few ideas:

• Sugar Substitute: Try using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more nuanced sweetness.
• No Orange Liqueur? If you prefer to skip the alcohol, simply add a little extra orange juice or zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
• Other Apples: While tart apples like Granny Smith are best for pectin content, you can experiment with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala for a milder jam flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cranberry Orange Jam

Making cranberry orange jam is a simple, 30-minute process. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the cranberries and discard any stems or damaged berries. Peel, core, and grate the apple. Zest the orange and juice it, ensuring you have about ½ cup of juice.
Cook the Jam: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, grated apple, orange zest, and sugar. Add the orange juice and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally.
Simmer the Jam: Reduce the heat and keep the jam at a low boil. You’ll hear the cranberries pop as they cook. After about 10 minutes, add the orange liqueur if using.
Mash the Cranberries: Once the cranberries have popped and softened, use a potato masher or wooden spoon to mash the berries to your desired consistency.
Finish Cooking: Let the jam simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring often. Taste the jam to adjust the sweetness, adding more sugar if necessary.
Cool and Store: Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then transfer it into clean jars. Refrigerate the jam and enjoy it for up to 2-4 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cranberry Orange Jam

To ensure your cranberry orange jam turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Rinse the Cranberries Well: Before cooking, rinse the cranberries to remove any debris and check for any damaged berries.
• Consistency Check: If the jam gets too thick before all the cranberries have popped, simply add a little more water or orange juice to maintain the right consistency.
• Proper Storage: While this recipe isn’t intended for canning, it’s perfect for refrigerator storage or freezing. Just ensure your jars are clean and sterile for the best results.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Cranberry Orange Jam

Cranberry orange jam is incredibly versatile, and you can use it in a variety of ways:

• Spread for Sandwiches: This jam is fantastic on turkey sandwiches, adding a sweet and tangy punch that complements savory meats.
• Brunch Companion: Serve the jam as a side dish at your holiday brunch buffet, alongside muffins, scones, or pancakes.
• Baked Goods: Surprise your guests by adding a spoonful of cranberry orange jam inside your favorite muffins or even rugelach for a burst of flavor.
• Cheese Pairing: Pair the jam with goat cheese or cream cheese for a delightful appetizer. Its tart sweetness also works beautifully on a cheese platter.

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Cranberry Orange Jam

This cranberry orange jam is not just a delicious treat—it also offers some impressive health benefits. Cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content, which supports immune function and overall health. The added citrus from the oranges boosts your vitamin C intake, making this jam a great option during the colder months when immune support is crucial.

In addition to its health benefits, this jam is an ideal holiday recipe. The vibrant colors and festive flavors make it a perfect gift or addition to your holiday spread. You can even make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Jam is an irresistible holiday treat that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Its tangy sweetness, ease of preparation, and versatility make it the perfect addition to your seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re using it as a topping for your morning toast, pairing it with cheese, or adding it to baked goods, this jam brings a burst of festive flavor to any dish. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift, so why not share the joy of cranberry orange jam with your friends and family? Give it a try this holiday season and enjoy the delightful combination of fresh cranberries and zesty orange!

FAQs About Cranberry Orange Jam

1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot. There’s no need to thaw them first—frozen cranberries will work just as well as fresh ones!

2. How long will cranberry orange jam last in the fridge?

Cranberry orange jam will last for 2 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or jar to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the jam.

3. Can I make this cranberry orange jam without orange liqueur?

Yes, you can make this jam without the orange liqueur. The orange juice and zest provide enough citrus flavor, but if you’d like an extra depth of flavor, feel free to experiment with other citrus liqueurs or just add more orange zest and juice.

4. Can I can this cranberry orange jam?

While this recipe is designed for refrigeration or freezing, some people have successfully canned it. If you want to can it, be sure to follow proper canning instructions and make sure your jars are properly sterilized before sealing them

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