Cranberry Orange Jam

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A glossy, ruby-red jam that bursts with both tart and sweet citrus flavor, Cranberry Orange Jam is the holiday spread your toast didn’t know it needed. Perfectly balancing the tang of cranberries with the bright, zesty punch of fresh orange, this jam is easy to make and even easier to devour. Whether you’re dressing up a slice of hearty multigrain bread or spooning it over pancakes, this jam is the kind of small-batch magic that turns simple meals into something memorable.

And the best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned canner to make it. This refrigerator-style jam comes together quickly with just a few fresh ingredients and a stovetop—no pectin, no canning bath, just simple comfort in a jar. Let it cool, pop it in the fridge, and enjoy a homemade preserve that sings of winter mornings and holiday cheer.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Jam

• It’s sweet, tart, and perfectly spiced.
• Only takes about 30 minutes to make.
• No canning required—just cool and refrigerate.
• Elevates breakfast, brunch, and cheese boards.
• Made with real fruit, no artificial stuff.

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Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for Cranberry Orange Jam?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. They break down beautifully as they simmer, so you don’t need to thaw them ahead of time. Just toss them straight into the pot with your sugar, orange juice, and zest, and you’re good to go. This makes the jam easy to enjoy year-round, not just when cranberries are in season.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Jam

This jam is simplicity at its finest, using minimal ingredients that each play a deliciously important role:

• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: The star of the show, cranberries bring a bold tartness and natural pectin to thicken the jam.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds the sweetness needed to balance out the cranberries’ tart bite.
• Fresh Orange Juice: Offers natural acidity and citrus depth that enhances the overall flavor.
• Orange Zest: Gives an extra layer of bright, aromatic flavor to the jam.
• Cinnamon Stick (Optional): Adds a warm, spiced undertone that pairs beautifully with the fruit.

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How To Make the Cranberry Orange Jam

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 12 ounces of cranberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. If you’re adding a cinnamon stick, toss it in now.

Step 2: Simmer Until Berries Pop

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture begins to thicken—this usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3: Mash and Thicken

Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the cranberries into a chunky jam. Continue to simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Transfer to a clean jar and allow it to cool completely before sealing. Store in the fridge for up to 10 days.

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How to Serve and Store Cranberry Orange Jam

This jam makes enough to feed 6 to 8 people, depending on how generous your portions are. It’s wonderful warm or chilled, and you can store it in the fridge for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

It’s a fridge-friendly gem that’s perfect for gifting during the holidays or enjoying on your own toast, muffins, or even stirred into oatmeal.

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What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Jam?

Toasted Multigrain Bread

A hearty, crunchy base that lets the jam shine.

Buttermilk Biscuits

The buttery flakiness of biscuits pairs beautifully with the tangy spread.

Brie or Goat Cheese

The sweet-tart jam is incredible atop creamy cheeses.

Pancakes or Waffles

Drizzle it warm over breakfast favorites for a gourmet twist.

Roasted Turkey or Chicken

Add it as a condiment on the side or slather it on leftover sandwiches.

Yogurt Parfaits

Layer it between Greek yogurt and granola for a fruity punch.

Baked Brie in Puff Pastry

Use the jam as a gooey filling to elevate baked cheese appetizers.

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Want More Jam & Spread Ideas?

If this Cranberry Orange Jam has you craving more fruity goodness, check out these other unique spreads:

• Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
• Banana Bread Cookies
• Magic Lemon Cobbler
• Peach Cobbler Crumble Bars

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh or frozen cranberries? Try adding extra spices like cloves or ginger?

I love hearing your twists and tips. If you have questions, ask away—we’re all about making your kitchen time delicious.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy food ideas on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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