We absolutely adore the vibrant tang of cranberries blended with zesty orange in our Cranberry Orange Jelly recipe. It’s a holiday favorite that brings a burst of seasonal flavor to your table perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with roasted meats.
This easy homemade jelly draws from classic American traditions yet offers a fresh twist we know you’ll enjoy. With simple ingredients and quick prep it’s ideal for beginner cooks looking to impress.
Ingredients
In our Cranberry Orange Jelly recipe, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that blend the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus notes of oranges. This combination not only creates a vibrant jelly but also keeps preparation straightforward for holiday meals or everyday use. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used, with prep specifics noted for accuracy.
- Fresh cranberries: 12 ounces, rinsed and sorted to remove any stems or damaged berries—forming the base of our jelly for that signature tart flavor.
- Oranges: 2 large ones, zested and juiced—we recommend using organic oranges for the best zest, yielding about ½ cup of fresh juice to add natural sweetness and acidity.
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups, measured precisely to balance the tartness and help achieve the perfect jelly consistency without overpowering the fruit.
- Water: 1 cup, used to create the initial cooking liquid that helps extract flavors and soften the cranberries during the simmering process.
- Lemon juice (optional): 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed—if included, it enhances the jelly’s set and adds a subtle tang for those seeking extra zing.
This selection ensures our Cranberry Orange Jelly turns out glossy, flavorful, and versatile for spreading on toast or pairing with meats.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Cranberry Orange Jelly recipe to life after selecting the fresh ingredients, we rely on a few key pieces of equipment that streamline the process and ensure perfect results every time.
- Medium saucepan: Essential for simmering the cranberries and orange mixture to achieve that glossy, vibrant jelly texture.
- Fine grater or zester: We use this to carefully zest the oranges, capturing their zesty oils that enhance the jelly’s bright, citrusy flavor.
- Juicer or citrus reamer: Perfect for extracting fresh juice from the oranges, ensuring we get the exact amount needed for balanced tartness.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial; we recommend a set for precisely measuring sugar, water, and any optional lemon juice.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring the mixture without scratching cookware, helping us monitor the jelly’s transformation as it thickens.
- Heatproof jars or containers: We suggest using sterilized glass jars with lids for storing the finished jelly, keeping it fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps and create a batch of our irresistible Cranberry Orange Jelly.
Instructions
We guide you through creating our Cranberry Orange Jelly with simple, precise steps that yield a vibrant, tangy-sweet spread perfect for holiday tables or everyday meals. Let’s transform fresh ingredients into a glossy jewel-toned jelly bursting with citrus notes.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we rinse 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water and pat them dry to remove any debris ensuring they are plump and ready for cooking. Next, we zest 2 large organic oranges using a fine grater or zester to yield about 2 tablespoons of fragrant zest that adds a bright, aromatic punch—be sure to avoid the bitter white pith.
Then, we juice the same oranges to obtain 1 cup of fresh orange juice, straining out any pulp for a smooth base. We measure out 2 cups of granulated sugar for the perfect balance of sweetness and 1 cup of water to create the syrupy mixture. If desired, we add 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice for an extra zing that enhances the tartness of the cranberries.
Cook the Jelly
We begin by combining the prepared cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves completely. As the mixture heats, we bring it to a rolling boil watching as the cranberries burst and release their vivid red juices creating a symphony of tart aromas that fill the kitchen.
Once boiling, we reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency—test by stirring and noting how it coats the spoon with a glossy sheen. We remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly allowing the flavors to meld into a irresistible blend of cranberry tartness and orange zest.
Strain and Set
We pour the cooled mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl pressing gently with a silicone spatula to extract all the flavorful liquid while leaving behind the solids for a clear, smooth jelly. Next, we transfer the strained liquid into sterilized heatproof jars filling them to the brim to capture the jewel-like hue and fresh citrus scent.
Finally, we seal the jars and let the jelly set at room temperature for 1-2 hours or refrigerate for faster cooling until it firms up to a spreadable texture ready for your next meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Cranberry Orange Jelly recipe is its flexibility for holiday prep or meal planning. We can make this tangy-sweet spread ahead of time to save effort on busy days, ensuring it retains its vibrant flavor and glossy texture.
Preparing and Storing in Advance
To make our Cranberry Orange Jelly ahead, follow these simple steps after the jelly has cooled and been strained as outlined in the recipe:
- Cool and Jar Immediately: Once the jelly reaches room temperature, transfer it to sterilized, heatproof jars. This prevents any bacterial growth and locks in the fresh, zesty notes of oranges and tart cranberries.
- Refrigerate for Short-Term Storage: Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. The jelly will keep its optimal flavor and consistency for up to 7 days. For best results, stir gently before serving to redistribute any settled pulp.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: If we need to extend shelf life, portion the cooled jelly into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy thawing. Freeze for up to 6 months, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This method preserves the jelly’s bright citrus aroma and smooth spreadability, perfect for last-minute additions to toast or charcuterie boards.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
For accurate tracking, here’s a quick overview of storage options and their durations:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 7 days | Keep jars sealed and in the coolest part of the fridge to maintain the jelly’s firm yet spoonable texture. |
| Freezing | Up to 6 months | Label jars with dates and avoid repeated thawing to preserve the fresh, tangy-sweet balance of cranberries and oranges. |
By preparing our Cranberry Orange Jelly in advance, we ensure it’s ready to elevate any meal with its irresistible burst of flavor. Always check for signs of spoilage, like off odors or mold, before use.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cranberry Orange Jelly recipe and its fresh twist on traditions. It’s a simple way to add vibrant flavor to your meals.
Try it for your next gathering and see how it brightens everything from breakfast to dinner. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cranberry Orange Jelly?
Cranberry Orange Jelly is a tangy-sweet spread made from fresh cranberries, oranges, sugar, and water. It combines the tartness of cranberries with zesty orange flavors, perfect for holidays or everyday use on toast or meats. This easy recipe offers a modern twist on classic American traditions, ideal for beginner cooks with quick prep time.
What ingredients are needed for Cranberry Orange Jelly?
You’ll need 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, 2 large organic oranges (zested and juiced), 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of water, and optionally 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for extra tang. These high-quality ingredients ensure a glossy, flavorful jelly that’s simple and versatile for any meal.
What equipment is required to make Cranberry Orange Jelly?
Essential equipment includes a medium saucepan for simmering, a fine grater or zester for oranges, a juicer for extracting juice, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, and heatproof jars for storage. This setup makes preparation straightforward and efficient.
How do I prepare Cranberry Orange Jelly?
Start by rinsing cranberries and zesting/juicing oranges. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened. Cool slightly, strain for smoothness, and transfer to sterilized jars to set. The process takes about 30-45 minutes, resulting in a vibrant spread ready for holidays or daily use.
Can I make Cranberry Orange Jelly ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal planning. Prepare the jelly as directed, then cool and jar it immediately. Store in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 6 months to preserve flavor and texture. This allows you to have it ready for holiday gatherings or everyday meals without last-minute hassle.
How long does Cranberry Orange Jelly last?
Refrigerated, it stays fresh for up to 7 days; frozen, it lasts up to 6 months. Always use clean, sterilized jars and cool the jelly quickly to prevent bacterial growth. Proper storage maintains its tangy-sweet taste, making it a convenient option for future use.