Description
A delightful balance of tart and sweet, this cranberry jam infused with oranges and spices is a cherished holiday tradition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh oranges (zest and juice)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 package pectin
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberries: Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pick through them to remove any that are mushy or unripe.
- Zest and juice the oranges: Zesting adds an aromatic note that enhances the jam’s flavor. Set aside the zest and juice separately.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, and spices. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Cook the jam: Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir frequently, allowing the cranberries to burst and release their juices. This should take about 10–15 minutes.
- Add the pectin: Stir in the pectin and let it boil for another 1–2 minutes, ensuring it thickens properly.
- Test the consistency: To check if it’s set, drop a spoonful on a cold plate. If it holds shape after cooling for a minute, it’s ready.
- Jar the jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace. Wipe the rims to ensure a good seal and seal with the lids.
- Cool and store: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Notes
For best results, use fresh cranberries and don’t skip the lemon juice. Adjust sweetness according to taste, especially if using substitutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Jam
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cranberry jam, holiday recipes, Christmas, preserves, homemade jam