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Cranberry orange jam is a tasty twist on traditional cranberry sauce. It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients like fresh cranberries, oranges, sugar, and apples. You can whip up a batch in about 20-25 minutes on your stovetop.
This bright, tangy jam is perfect for holiday meals or gift-giving. You can spread it on toast, use it as a glaze for meats, or serve it alongside your Thanksgiving turkey. The blend of tart cranberries and sweet oranges creates a flavor that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Exact Ingredients (Plus Possible Substitutes)
Here’s what you’ll need to make cranberry orange jam:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 orange (juice and zest)
- Pinch of salt
You can swap out some ingredients if needed:
- Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones.
- Try brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor.
- No oranges? Use lemon juice and zest for a different twist.
Some recipes add extras for more flavor:
- 1-2 tablespoons apple (grated)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme (minced)
Don’t have fresh herbs? Dried thyme works too, but use less.
For a lower sugar version, try:
- 1/2 cup sugar + 1/4 cup honey
- Or use a sugar substitute meant for cooking
Remember, you can adjust the sugar to your taste. Start with less and add more if needed.
Instructions
To make cranberry orange jam, gather these ingredients:
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar
- Orange juice
- Orange zest
- Apple (optional)
Rinse the cranberries and put them in a saucepan. Add sugar, orange juice, and zest. If using, add shredded apple.
Mix everything together and bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir often to prevent burning. You’ll hear the cranberries start to pop.
Lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Keep stirring every few minutes. The jam will thicken as it cooks.
For a smoother texture, mash the cranberries with a potato masher or back of a spoon.
Test if it’s ready by putting a small amount on a cold plate. If it sets and wrinkles when you push it, it’s done.
Pour the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars. Seal them tightly. Let the jars cool completely before storing in the fridge.
Your homemade cranberry orange jam is now ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, muffins, or use it as a festive holiday gift.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Making cranberry orange jam can be fun and easy. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
Use fresh cranberries when possible. Frozen ones work too, but fresh berries give the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the orange zest! It adds a bright, citrusy kick that really makes the jam shine.
Stir your jam often while cooking. This prevents burning and helps the cranberries break down evenly.
To test if your jam is ready, put a small spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done!
For storage, keep your homemade jam in clean, airtight jars. It will last about 2 weeks in the fridge.
You can also freeze your jam for up to 6 months. Just leave some space at the top of the jar for expansion.
Try adding a cinnamon stick or a splash of vanilla for extra flavor. Remove the cinnamon before jarring.
If you like a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree it once cooked.