Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam: A Festive Treat
Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is a delightful and easy-to-make treat, perfect for the holiday season. This vibrant jam combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges, creating a unique flavor that enhances both sweet and savory dishes. Not only is this jam versatilemaking an excellent ingredient for holiday desserts and breakfast spreadsbut it also offers the convenience of freezer storage, ideal for busy individuals looking to whip up homemade gifts, such as Jelly Christmas Gifts. With minimal cooking involved, it fits seamlessly into holiday traditions like Canned Christmas Jam and aligns perfectly with Homestead Canning Recipes.
What is Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam?
Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is a no-cook jam that marries the tart flavor of cranberries with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh oranges. This combination yields a refreshing and vibrant spread that can elevate your breakfast or dessert table. Historically, jams and jellies have been a staple in preserving fruit, but the rise of freezer jams has made the process simpler and more accessible, allowing for fresher flavors without the need for extensive cooking. This jam is particularly popular during the holiday season, making it a favored choice for gift-giving and family gatherings, alongside festive alternatives like Spiced Christmas Jam No Pectin and Pineapple And Coconut Jam.
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: teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth
- Optional: 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 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
This recipe highlights the freshness and flavor of homemade jam, which simply cannot be matched by store-bought options. Its versatility makes it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a thoughtful gift, making it a staple for Homemade Christmas Recipes. Plus, the ease of preparation places it firmly in the category of 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.
In conclusion, making Cranberry Orange Freezer Jam is not only easy but also immensely satisfying. The vibrant flavors and simplicity of preparation make it a must-try for the holiday season. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below. Dont forget to share this post on social media so others can discover this festive treat!
