Discover the Irresistible Joy of Homemade Cranberry Apple Jam

There’s something undeniably special about homemade jam, especially when cranberries and apples come together in a delightful blend of sweet and tangy goodness. This Cranberry Apple Jam is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a warm embrace of comfort that can adorn your breakfast table or holiday feast. My fondest memories involve family gatherings where this jam was a star, slathered over fresh biscuits or stirred into yogurt. The vibrant red from the cranberries mixed with the golden hue of apples makes it as beautiful as it is tasty.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Cranberry Apple Jam a true kitchen gem? For starters, it’s delightfully simple yet utterly impressive. The balance of flavors—sweet apples with tart cranberries—creates a taste sensation that’s perfect for any time of year. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to use seasonal fruits, and it can be made in just a few hours! Imagine filling your pantry with jars of this jewel-toned jam, ready to be shared with friends or enjoyed on lazy Sunday mornings.

"I made this jam for a brunch with friends, and it was a hit! Everyone went back for seconds. It’s the perfect blend of sweetness and tartness!" – Emily, a satisfied jam-maker.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making your own cranberry apple jam is more than just a fun project; it’s a chance to fill your home with the aroma of warm spices and sweet fruits. Here’s how you can create this delicious jam with just a few straightforward steps. Gather your ingredients, set aside some time for maceration, and get ready for a delightful cooking experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and joy.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make this delicious jam, you will need:

4 cups apples (peeled, cored, and diced – about 2 lbs or just under 1 kg)
2 cups fresh cranberries (approximately 200 grams)
3 cups sugar (600 grams)
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 to 3 tablespoons)

Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavor profiles! Tart apples, like Granny Smith, can add an extra zing.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prep the Apples: Start by peeling, coring, and dicing the apples into small pieces (about 1/4 inch or about 1/2 cm cubes). Toss them in the lemon juice and then coat them evenly with sugar.
Macerate: Cover the mixture and let it sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Combine Ingredients: Once the apples are ready, combine them with the fresh cranberries in a jam pot. If you’re planning to can, prepare your water bath canner now.
Cook the Mixture: Place the pot over medium-high heat and cook, stirring frequently, until it thickens. This should take roughly 6 to 10 minutes. Be vigilant; it will firm up as it cools.
Check the Consistency: The jam is ready when the cranberries have popped and mixed well, while apple chunks maintain their shape.
Jar It Up: Remove from heat and ladle the jam into prepared jars, being sure to leave 1/4 inch of headspace.
Canning: If you’re canning, process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes (adjust to 15 minutes if above 6,000 feet).
Cool Down: Allow the jars to cool completely on a towel on your counter and check the seals. Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator for immediate enjoyment. Sealed jars can be kept on the pantry shelf. Remember: refrigerate after opening!

Best Way to Serve

The beauty of Cranberry Apple Jam lies in its versatility! Spread it over warm biscuits or toast for breakfast, swirl it into oatmeal for a fruity twist, or serve it as a decadent topping for cream cheese on a cheese platter. It’s also delightful paired with roasted meats, adding a touch of sweetness to savory dishes.

Storage Tips

To keep your homemade jam fresh longer, it’s vital to store it correctly. Sealed jars can be kept in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year. Once opened, ensure to refrigerate the jars and consume the jam within a few weeks. Always practice safe food handling; if you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the jar.

Helpful Hints

Choose the Right Apples: For a balanced flavor, mix sweet and tart apples.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on temperature to avoid burning the sugar.
Sterilization is Key: If canning, ensure your jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with your cranberry apple jam! Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or a splash of orange juice for a citrus kick. You could also experiment with other fruits, like pears or peaches, to enhance the flavor. This recipe is incredibly adaptable!

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to make this jam?
A: The total process, including maceration, takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how long you choose to let the apples sit before cooking.

Q: Can I substitute the sugar?
A: Yes, alternatives like honey or maple syrup can be used, but keep in mind that they may alter the final taste and texture slightly.

Q: How do I know if my jam has set correctly?
A: A good test is to place a spoonful on a cold plate; if it holds its shape after cooling for a minute, it’s ready!

Q: Can I freeze this jam?
A: Yes, you can freeze cranberry apple jam! Just ensure it’s cooled and stored in airtight containers or freezer bags. It should last for several months in the freezer.

This jam is not only a sweet spread but also a way to bring a slice of homemade goodness to your life. Enjoy every moment crafting this delightful treat!

Homemade Cranberry Apple Jam

Total Time: 130 minutes
Yield: 4 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful blend of sweet apples and tart cranberries, this homemade jam is perfect for breakfast or as a festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups apples (peeled, cored, and diced – about 2 lbs or just under 1 kg)
2 cups fresh cranberries (approximately 200 grams)
3 cups sugar (600 grams)
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 to 3 tablespoons)

Instructions

Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. Toss them in lemon juice and coat with sugar.
Macerate: Cover and let sit for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Combine Ingredients: Mix the apples and cranberries in a jam pot.
Cook the Mixture: Heat over medium-high, stirring until thick (6 to 10 minutes).
Check the Consistency: Ensure cranberries have popped and apple chunks remain.
Jar It Up: Ladle jam into prepared jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
Canning: Process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
Cool Down: Allow jars to cool completely and check seals.

Notes

Mix sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor. Refrigerate after opening and consume within weeks.

Prep Time: 120 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: Canning
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 50
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 0mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: jam, cranberry, apple, homemade, snacks, preserves