Cranberry Jam

Cranberry Jam

There’s something undeniably special about homemade jams, especially when they’re bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh cranberries. My experience making cranberry jam is a delightful nostalgia – the rich, tart flavor that takes you back to festive family gatherings. Whether it’s for a cozy weekend brunch or as a thoughtful gift during the holiday season, this cranberry jam recipe brings a joyful note to any table.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What sets this cranberry jam apart is its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful spread that’s not only quick and easy but also budget-friendly. Perfect for enhancing your morning toast, stirring into yogurt, or even as a celebratory topping for holiday desserts, this jam allows you to elevate everyday meals into something special.

"This cranberry jam is a game-changer! I made it for Thanksgiving, and it was the highlight of the spread. Everyone kept asking for the recipe!" – A satisfied home cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making cranberry jam is simpler than you might think, and it comes together in just a few steps. First, you’ll rinse and sort the cranberries, ensuring only the best make it into your jam. Then, coax the fruit and sugar together over gentle heat until they burst and caramelize, creating that lovely jam-like consistency. Finally, add a touch of warmth with spices and citrus zest for a jam that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the perfect cranberry jam, you’ll need:

• 12 ounces (about 4 cups) whole cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• Zest from one orange
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Note: For a different flavor profile, feel free to experiment with other citrus juices or add a vanilla pod for extra depth!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start by rinsing the cranberries. Carefully inspect each one and discard any that are bruised or spoiled.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and fresh orange juice over medium heat.
3. Whisk continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cranberries bursting and the mixture thickening.
5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Transfer the hot jam into a clean pint-sized mason jar and let it cool to room temperature before sealing.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to one month or freeze for up to three months for future enjoyment.

Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Jam

This delightful cranberry jam is incredibly versatile. Here are a few creative ways to serve it:

• Spread it on fresh toast or croissants for an instant breakfast upgrade.
• Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles – the tartness pairs beautifully with maple syrup.
• Stir a spoonful into Greek yogurt for a refreshing snack or breakfast.
• Serve as a condiment with roasted meats, particularly turkey or pork, for a festive twist.
• Add a dollop on top of cheesecake or ice cream for a seasonal dessert touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your cranberry jam fresh and flavorful:

• Store your sealed jar of jam in the refrigerator for up to one month.
• If you have leftovers, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.
• Always let the jam cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation buildup inside the jar.

For best quality, consume thawed jars within a few weeks.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Selective Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels according to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar gradually until you achieve your desired flavor.
2. Zest the Citrus: Make sure to zest the orange before juicing. This ensures you get the most flavorful zest without the pith.
3. Watch the Heat: When simmering the jam, pay attention to the heat. Too high can lead to caramelization rather than a jam-like consistency.

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some variations on this classic cranberry jam:

• Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for a warming spice that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Berry Mix: Include a cup of blueberries or raspberries for a mixed-berry jam variation.
• Chili Kick: For a savory twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy cranberry jam perfect for cheese boards.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for cranberry jam?

The prep time is roughly 10 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick project that yields delicious results!

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly and will help you create delightful jam any time of year.

How do I know if my jam has set properly?

Cranberry jam thickens as it cools. A good test is to place a spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready!

Cooking homemade cranberry jam is not only a rewarding experience but also allows you to bring a touch of homemade goodness to your table. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this joyful kitchen adventure!

Cranberry Jam

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• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 1 pint 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful homemade cranberry jam bursting with vibrant flavors, perfect for toast, yogurt, or holiday desserts.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces (about 4 cups) whole cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• Zest from one orange
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Rinse the cranberries and discard any that are bruised or spoiled.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and fresh orange juice over medium heat.
3. Whisk continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Transfer the jam to a clean pint-sized mason jar and let it cool before sealing.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator for up to one month or freeze for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Stovetop
• 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, homemade jam, fruit spread, holiday recipes, easy recipes