Cranberry Orange Jam

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If you’re craving a sweet-tart preserve that bursts with festive flavor, Cranberry Orange Jam is the answer. Whether you’re spooning it over toast, swirling it into yogurt, or serving it alongside roasted meats, this jam delivers vibrant color and citrusy zing in every bite. It’s a recipe that captures the brightness of oranges and the boldness of cranberries in one jar.

Homemade jams like this bring a level of freshness and customization you can’t find in store-bought options. You can adjust the sweetness, tweak the texture, and enjoy the satisfaction of preserving something delicious with your own hands. Plus, it makes a thoughtful gift, especially during the holiday season.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Cranberry Orange Jam is wonderfully straightforward, but having the right tools ensures a smooth process and perfect results:

• Medium Saucepan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan distributes heat evenly and prevents the fruit from scorching during cooking.
• Citrus Zester and Juicer: To extract both the zest and juice from fresh oranges. The zest adds aromatic oils, while the juice brings brightness.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring the mixture as it simmers. Non-metal tools avoid reacting with the acidic ingredients.
• Fine Mesh Sieve or Potato Masher (optional): For those who prefer a smoother texture, a masher helps break down the cranberries, and a sieve can strain skins if desired.
• Sterilized Glass Jars with Lids: For storing the jam. Make sure they are heat-proof and airtight to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Jam

Each ingredient in this jam serves a distinct purpose and contributes to its irresistible flavor and texture:

• Fresh Cranberries: The star of the recipe. Their tartness balances the sweetness, and their natural pectin helps the jam thicken.
• Oranges (zest and juice): Adds bright citrus notes that enhance the cranberries beautifully. The zest brings intense flavor, and the juice adds natural sweetness and liquid.
• Granulated Sugar: Necessary for sweetness and also crucial for the preservation process.
• Cinnamon Stick or Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy spice note that pairs well with the fruit, especially during cooler months.
• Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and starts the cooking process.

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How To Make the Cranberry Orange Jam

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Rinse the cranberries and discard any that are soft or bruised. Zest the orange first, then juice it. Measure out the sugar and water before starting.

Step 2: Simmer the Fruit

In your medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and water. If using cinnamon, add it now. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Break Down the Berries

Once the cranberries start popping, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Use a potato masher to gently crush the cranberries if you prefer a less chunky texture.

Step 4: Check the Consistency

The jam will thicken as it cooks. You can test it by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s ready. Remove the cinnamon stick if used.

Step 5: Jar the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal immediately and let cool at room temperature. Store in the refrigerator or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.

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How to Serve and Store Cranberry Orange Jam

This jam is as versatile as it is vibrant. Spread it over warm toast, biscuits, or scones. It also shines when paired with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, making it a beautiful addition to any charcuterie board. For a savory twist, try serving it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or pork as a bright, tangy complement.

To store, keep the sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you’ve processed the jam using the water bath method, it can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 6 months. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 10 days for the best flavor and quality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well. No need to thaw them—just add directly to the pan.

How do I know when the jam is thick enough?

Use the chilled plate method: place a spoonful on a cold plate, wait a few seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.

Is it possible to make this jam sugar-free?

You can use sugar alternatives like monk fruit or stevia blends, but note that the texture and shelf life may be affected since sugar also acts as a preservative.

What kind of oranges work best?

Navel oranges are ideal because they’re sweet and juicy, but feel free to experiment with blood oranges or even mandarins for a different flavor profile.

Do I need to use pectin?

No added pectin is needed—cranberries are naturally high in pectin, which helps the jam set perfectly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook it in a larger pot and allow extra time for thickening. Stir frequently to prevent scorching.

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Want More Jam and Spread Ideas?

If you love this Cranberry Orange Jam, you’ll probably enjoy these other homemade creations from the blog:

• Orange Dreamsicle Salad for a creamy, citrusy treat.
• Apple Enchiladas: A Sweet and Comforting Treat if you’re craving warm apple spice flavors.
• Coconut Snowballs: A Delightful Holiday Treat to bring cozy, no-bake sweetness to your dessert tray.
• Whipped Feta with Roasted Strawberries if you like fruit with a savory twist.

Looking for more daily ideas and seasonal favorites? Check out my Pinterest board at Life With Olivia on Pinterest for fresh updates and more recipes just like this.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast or holiday board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go chunky or smooth? Add cinnamon or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other preserve smarter.

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