Delicious Homemade Cranberry Jam Recipe: Easy & Flavorful Delight
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Additional Time:
1 hour (for cooling)
Total Time:
1 hour 45 minutes
Servings:
4-6
Yield:
1 pint
Homemade cranberry jam is one of those delightful treats that not only elevates breakfast but can also transform any meal into something special. Imagine spreading this vibrant, tangy concoction over your morning toast, pairing it with cheese for an impressive appetizer, or using it in your favorite desserts. With its bright flavor and beautiful color, this Easy & Flavorful Delicious Homemade Cranberry Jam Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Jam Recipe
There’s not just one reason why this recipe deserves a place in your heart and pantry! Here are a few compelling reasons to whip up a batch of homemade cranberry jam:
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Natural Ingredients: This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients—fresh cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a dash of spice. Say goodbye to preservatives and artificial flavors.
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Rich in Nutrients: Cranberries are known for their antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. A dollop of this jam can give you a little health boost while satisfying your sweet tooth.
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Versatile Uses: From toast to glaze, the possibilities are endless. You can even mix it into yogurt or oatmeal for an extra zing!
A Step-by-Step Recipe for Delicious Cranberry Jam
Let’s get started! Here’s how to create your own jar of scrumptious goodness.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- Juice of one lemon (about ¼ cup)
- 1 tsp grated orange zest (optional)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse and pick through the cranberries, discarding any bruised or soft ones.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and any optional spices you wish to add.
- Bring to a Boil: Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer and Stir: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently. The cranberries will burst, and the mixture will thicken.
- Test for Consistency: To ensure the jam is set, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it holds its shape, it’s ready!
- Jar and Cool: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars while still warm and allow it to cool at room temperature for about one hour before sealing.
Recipe Remix: Substitutions & Secret Hacks
Want to get a little creative with your cranberry jam? Here are some tips to personalize this recipe:
- Sweetener Replace: Consider using maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar for a natural sweetener alternative.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for a holiday twist!
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced apples, pears, or even a handful of blueberries for added flavor and complexity.
- Canning Tips: If you want to preserve your cranberry jam, use a water bath canning method. Ensure your jars are hot and fresh to maintain freshness for months.
The Nutritional Benefits per Serving
- Calories: 110
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 0g
Until Next Time
Having made this cranberry jam multiple times, I can honestly say it’s become a beloved household staple. My kids love spreading it on their pancakes, while my partner enjoys it as a paired contrast with cheese on our cheese board. Its bright flavor and beautiful ruby color light up our days, especially in the colder months when fresh cranberries are bountiful. You’ll not only appreciate the flavorful zing it adds to your dishes but also the sense of accomplishment from making it yourself!
Give this Easy & Flavorful Homemade Cranberry Jam a try—you won’t regret it! You may find yourself making batch after batch as you explore all the delightful ways to enjoy it!
