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Irresistible Cranberry-Orange Marmalade Recipe for Holidays

Cranberry-Orange Marmalade - featured image

A vibrant and flavorful marmalade combining the tartness of cranberries with the zesty sweetness of fresh oranges, perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 2 medium oranges (zest and juice)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any wax or residue. Using a microplane, zest the oranges to remove only the bright orange outer layer—avoid the white pith, as it can taste bitter. Once zested, juice the oranges and set aside.
  2. Rinse the cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or mushy berries. If using frozen cranberries, let them thaw completely before using.
  3. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and water. Toss in the cinnamon stick for that warm holiday spice.
  4. Bring to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. You’ll start to hear the cranberries pop—don’t worry, that’s exactly what you want!
  5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cranberries breaking down and the marmalade thickening.
  6. Test the consistency: After 20 minutes, use the back of your spoon to check the marmalade’s thickness. It should coat the spoon but still have a slight drizzle. If too runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
  7. Remove the cinnamon stick: Once the marmalade has reached your desired consistency, fish out the cinnamon stick and discard.
  8. Cool and store: Let the marmalade cool to room temperature before transferring it to sterilized jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

[‘Don’t skip the zest as it gives the marmalade its signature brightness.’, ‘Monitor the heat level during simmering to avoid scorching.’, ‘Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness if needed.’, ‘Be patient and allow the cranberries to break down and release their natural pectin.’, ‘Use a heavy-bottom pan for even cooking.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry, orange, marmalade, holiday recipe, homemade preserves, festive spread, easy recipe, holiday gift, breakfast spread