Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam
Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is a delightful and easy-to-make treat, perfect for the holiday season. Its unique combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a flavor profile that brightens up any meal. This versatile jam can be used in various recipes, from breakfast spreads to holiday desserts, making it a must-have in your kitchen during this festive time.
What is Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam?
Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is a quick and refreshing spread that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the citrusy brightness of oranges. This jam captures the essence of the holiday season, making it a popular choice for gatherings and gifts. Historically, jams and jellies have been enjoyed for centuries, but the rise of freezer jams has made it easier to retain the fresh flavors without the need for extensive canning processes.
Freezer jams maintain the fruit’s natural taste and vibrant color, allowing you to enjoy the essence of cranberries and oranges all year round. In addition to Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam, other festive alternatives include Spiced Christmas Jam No Pectin and Pineapple And Coconut Jam, which are also perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients and Directions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh cranberries (washed and sorted)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Seasoning Mixture:
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth
- Optional: 1 teaspoon nutmeg for an extra festive flavor
Optional Add-Ons:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans for texture
- A splash of vanilla extract for sweetness
Directions
Total Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Freezing Time: 4 hours or overnight
- Prepare Your Workspace: Gather all ingredients and equipment (jars, measuring cups, mixing bowl).
- Crush the Cranberries: In a bowl, crush cranberries using a potato masher until coarsely chopped.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine crushed cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl.
- Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes to dissolve the sugar, stirring occasionally.
- Fill Containers: Pour the mixture into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.
- Freeze: Seal tightly and freeze for up to a year. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Sizes for Every Occasion
| Serving Size | Cranberries | Sugar | Orange Juice | Orange Zest | Lemon Juice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| x1 | 4 cups | 2 cups | 1 cup | Zest of 1 | 1 tbsp |
| x2 | 8 cups | 4 cups | 2 cups | Zest of 2 | 2 tbsp |
| x4 | 16 cups | 8 cups | 4 cups | Zest of 4 | 4 tbsp |
Recipe Variations
- Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute to cater to health-conscious individuals.
- Spiced Variation: Add ground ginger or allspice for a warm holiday twist.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate pineapple pieces for a Pineapple And Coconut Jam style.
Serving Tips
- Pair the jam with fresh bread, scones, or as a topping for ice cream.
- Present the jam in decorative jars for gifting, making it a perfect Jelly Christmas Gift.
- Include serving suggestions for various occasionsbreakfast spreads, holiday dinners, or dessert toppings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The freshness and flavor of homemade jam far surpass store-bought options, making this recipe a delight. Its versatility allows it to shine at breakfast, snacks, or as a thoughtful gift, establishing it as a staple for Homemade Christmas Recipes. Additionally, the straightforward preparation process makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking Easy Jams To Make.
Pro Tips
- Always use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
- For an easy cleanup, line your workspace with parchment paper.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by experimenting with different sugars or sweeteners.
Customizations
- Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free, great for all dietary needs.
- Kid-Friendly Option: Sweeten further or add fruit puree for a flavor kids will enjoy.
Key Takeaways:
- Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is a simple and delicious treat perfect for the holidays.
- This jam can be customized for different tastes and dietary needs.
- It makes for an impressive homemade gift, aligning with Jelly Christmas Gifts.
- The recipe is quick, requiring minimal cooking time and equipment.
- Enjoy the jam in various ways, from breakfast to desserts, enhancing Homemade Christmas Recipes.
FAQs
- How long does freezer jam last? Up to one year when properly stored in the freezer.
- Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, but thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- Is it necessary to add pectin? No, this recipe does not require pectin due to the fruit’s natural gelling properties.
- How do I adjust the sweetness? Taste the mixture before freezing and add more sugar if desired.
- Can I add other fruits? Yes, feel free to mix in fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist.
Making Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is not only easy but also a joyous way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Try this recipe today and share your experiences in the comments! Dont forget to share this post on social media for others to discover this festive treat.
