Cranberry Orange Jam

I’ve always had a soft spot for homemade jams, but there’s something about the blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange that feels extra special. This Cranberry Orange Jam is the perfect balance of bright and bold flavors, with just enough sweetness to make it utterly irresistible. I started making it during the holidays, but now I find myself craving it year-round. It’s an absolute game changer on toast, swirled into yogurt, or even served alongside roasted meats.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just a few fresh, seasonal staples and a bit of patience while it simmers to perfection. If you're looking for a way to elevate your breakfast routine or need a vibrant homemade gift, this jam is exactly what you want to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Jam

It’s quick, foolproof, and bursting with seasonal flavor. The combination of cranberries and oranges creates a jam that’s both tart and sweet, which pairs beautifully with everything from buttered toast to cheese boards. Plus, it thickens naturally thanks to the cranberries’ high pectin content—no added thickeners needed!

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What Kind of Cranberries Should I Use?

Fresh cranberries are ideal, especially when they’re in season in fall and winter. They cook down beautifully and offer a vibrant flavor and color. However, if fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can absolutely use frozen ones. Just make sure they’re unsweetened and don’t thaw them before adding to the pot.

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Options for Substitutions

If you want to experiment or don’t have all the ingredients on hand, there are a few swaps that work well. You can replace the orange zest and juice with lemon for a tangier version. Maple syrup or honey can substitute for sugar if you're looking for a more natural sweetener. And if you want a bit of spice, a dash of cinnamon or grated ginger makes a delicious addition.

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Ingredients for this Cranberry Orange Jam

• Fresh Cranberries: These are the heart of the recipe, providing natural pectin and a tart backbone.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the tartness of cranberries and helps thicken the jam.
• Orange Juice: Adds a sweet citrus brightness that elevates the cranberries.
• Orange Zest: Intensifies the orange flavor with its aromatic oils.
• Water: Helps the cranberries break down smoothly during cooking.
• Cinnamon Stick (optional): Offers warm spice notes that pair wonderfully with cranberries and orange.
• Salt (just a pinch): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

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Step 1: Rinse and Pick Through Cranberries

Start by washing the cranberries under cool water and removing any that are bruised or mushy. This ensures a fresh and clean base for your jam.

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Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, water, and the optional cinnamon stick. Stir to combine and set over medium heat.

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Step 3: Simmer Until Berries Burst

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will begin to pop and break down.

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Step 4: Break Down the Mixture

Use a spoon or potato masher to gently crush the cranberries as they soften. This helps create a thick, jammy texture. Let the jam simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Remove the cinnamon stick. Taste the jam and adjust the sweetness if needed. If it’s too tart, stir in a little more sugar while still warm.

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Step 6: Cool and Store

Let the jam cool for about 10–15 minutes before transferring it to sterilized jars. Once completely cool, seal and store in the refrigerator. It will continue to thicken as it chills.

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How Long to Prepare the Cranberry Orange Jam

Prep Time: Most of the prep work involves rinsing the cranberries, zesting and juicing the orange, and measuring out ingredients. This should take about 10 minutes total.

Cook Time: The jam simmers for around 20–25 minutes, depending on your desired consistency. Cranberries break down quickly, so you’ll see it start to thicken fairly early on.

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Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Jam

• Use fresh orange zest for a more intense citrus flavor.
• Stir frequently to avoid scorching the bottom of the pan.
• Use a potato masher midway through cooking to reach a smoother, spreadable consistency.
• Taste before jarring to adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
• If gifting, decorate the jars with a festive label and twine.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking: The jam thickens as it cools, so don’t cook it too long or it may become overly firm.
• Skipping the zest: It might seem optional, but it adds a vibrant punch that makes this jam unique.
• Using sweetened cranberries: Always go for fresh or unsweetened frozen to control sugar levels.
• Not stirring enough: Sugar can burn quickly at the bottom—keep it moving gently.
• Ignoring taste balance: Don’t be afraid to tweak the sugar or citrus levels before storing.

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What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Jam?

1. On Toast or Sourdough

A classic pairing—spread it generously on buttered toast or a thick slice of rustic sourdough.

2. With Cheese and Crackers

Pairs beautifully with creamy Brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar for a festive appetizer.

3. As a Turkey or Chicken Glaze

Brush it onto roast turkey, chicken, or even pork tenderloin during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

4. Swirled into Yogurt or Oatmeal

A spoonful in your morning bowl adds bright flavor and natural sweetness.

5. On Pancakes or Waffles

Use it like syrup for a unique brunch topping that guests will remember.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Once cooled, store your Cranberry Orange Jam in airtight glass jars in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 weeks.

Freezing: You can freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some room for expansion. It will stay good for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Canning (Optional): If you’re experienced with water bath canning, this jam can be preserved for long-term shelf storage, typically up to a year if properly sealed.

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Estimated Nutrition (per tablespoon)

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Just make sure they are unsweetened and don't thaw them before using.

Do I need to use pectin?

No additional pectin is needed. Cranberries are naturally high in pectin, which helps the jam set beautifully.

How do I know when the jam is done?

It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and leave a trail when dragged through with a finger.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pot and stir often to ensure even cooking.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but keep in mind the jam may be more tart and won’t preserve as long.

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Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Jam is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a tradition. With its tangy, citrus-kissed sweetness and rich, jewel-toned color, it brightens any dish and elevates even the simplest toast. Whether you’re gifting it or enjoying it yourself, one thing’s for sure: one batch is never enough.

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