Cranberry Merry Jam Recipe
This is the perfect treat that brings holiday cheer to any breakfast or snack. The tanginess of the cranberries combined with the sweetness of sugar and a hint of orange zest creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. This vibrant red jam is filled with bursts of juicy cranberries that pair perfectly with toast, scones, or even as a filling for thumbprint cookies. It's the ideal homemade gift for friends and family during the festive season or an indulgent treat to savor all by yourself. Trust me, once you make this cranberry merry jam, it'll become an absolute staple in your kitchen every winter!
Equipment
- 1 large saucepan.
- 1 wooden spoon or heatproof spatula.
- 1 Mason jars with lids.
- 1 canning funnel (optional, but helpful).
- 1 water bath canner for the canning process.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cranberries.
- 4 cups sugar.
- 2 tsp cinnamon.
- 2 tsp ginger.
- ½ tsp ground cloves.
- 1 cup water.
- 2 tbsp orange juice.
- ½ tsp orange zest.
Instructions
Washing and Sorting Cranberries
- Before you get to cooking, give those cranberries a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Then, sort through them and discard any shriveled or damaged ones. We want only the best berries for this merry jam!
Combining Cranberries with Other Ingredients
- Once your cranberries are clean and sorted, it's time to bring in the rest of the ingredients. In a large saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix everything together gently, making sure the sugar coats the cranberries and the spices are evenly distributed.
Cooking and Simmering Process
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and let the mixture come to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will burst and release their luscious juices, creating a gorgeous, ruby-red mixture.
Crockpot Method
- This is my favorite method to cook my jams and sauces. This helps provide me with a hands-off approach to my small batch canning projects. You can drag out your trusty crockpot and cook your jam on high for 3 to 4 hours with all ingredients included.
Mashing the Cranberries
- Gently mash or use your stick blender to mash the berries to the perfect consistency you desire. For chunkier jam, leave more whole or half berries intact. For a more smoother jam, give those berries a good blend. You have complete control over the consistency of your jam.
Testing Jam Consistency
- To test if your jam is ready, take a spoonful and place it on a chilled plate or spoon. If it quickly sets and forms a jelly-like consistency, then it's good to go. If it's still too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again. Remember, patience is key when it comes to achieving the perfect jammy consistency!
Sterilizing Jars and Canning Process
- Now that your jam is done, it's time to prepare your jars for the journey ahead. Properly sterilizing your jars is crucial to prevent any unwanted bacteria growth and ensure the longevity of your jam. So, give those jars a good wash in hot soapy water, rinse them thoroughly, and then let them air dry or use a clean towel.
Step-by-Step Canning Instructions
- Once your jars are squeaky clean, fill them up with your warm and luscious jam, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on top, and tighten them snugly. Now, it's time for the canning process.
- Water bath canning is perfect for high-acid foods like this. Simply place your filled, lidded jars in a large pot of boiling water, ensuring they are completely submerged. Let them process for the recommended time, then carefully remove them and let them cool. For my altitude, I processed for 20 minutes.
Cool Down and Seal Check
- Once you've successfully made your delectable jam, it's important to ensure proper storage to maximize its shelf life. After removing the jars from the canner, allow them to cool down completely before touching or moving them. This helps in the sealing process and prevents any potential mishaps.
- Don't forget to perform a seal check once the jars have cooled down. Gently press the center of each lid - if it's firm and doesn't move, congratulations! You've got a sealed jar of cranberry goodness. If the lid pops up and down, don't worry, just refrigerate that jar and enjoy it within a couple of weeks.
Storage Recommendations
- To keep your Cranberry Merry Jam tasting fresh and delightful, store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place like your pantry or a cupboard. Make sure the area is away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, as these can affect the quality of the jam.
Shelf Life Expectancy
- When properly stored, can last up to 1 year. However, it's always a good idea to consume it within 6-8 months for the best flavor and quality. Remember to check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or off smells, before enjoying your homemade jam.