Savor the Season with Spiced Cranberry Jam | Easy Recipe
The holiday season on the homestead is a time for slowing down, savoring traditions, and filling the kitchen with inviting aromas. One of my favorite ways to preserve the magic of this time of year is by making a batch of Spiced Cranberry Jam. A delicious spread that is the perfect balance of tart cranberries, warm spices, and bright citrus. This isn’t just any jam; it’s a holiday treasure, perfect for everything from thumbprint cookies to pairing with a charcuterie board.
Ever wondered what to do with a bag of cranberries sitting in the fridge after Thanksgiving dinner?
Or maybe you simply love cranberries as much as I do and want to enjoy their tart, vibrant flavor all winter long. This easy cranberry jam recipe is the perfect way to savor them! Packed with festive flavor and so simple to make, it’s a must-try. Plus, if you use a water bath canner, you can preserve this delicious jam for years to come.
Cranberries: A Little Berry with Big Charm
Did you know that cranberries are one of the few fruits native to North America? They’ve been a staple in holiday time recipes for centuries, and their natural tartness makes them a star ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
One of my bucket list dreams is to visit a cranberry bog during harvest season. Watching the berries float like a crimson carpet across the water would be an unforgettable experience! Until then, I’ll keep bringing the magic of cranberries to my kitchen with recipes like this easy homemade cranberry jam recipe.
Why Make Your Own Jam?
There’s something deeply satisfying about creating your own jam at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a small batch recipe that’s full of the best flavor—no artificial additives, no unnecessary sweeteners.
Plus, it’s the perfect addition to your pantry for the winter months, whether you’re spreading it on sourdough bread, pairing it with cream cheese, or adding it to thumbprint cookies.
The good news? You don’t need special equipment or added pectin to make this jam. The cranberries’ natural pectin thickens it beautifully, and the process is so straightforward that even beginners will feel confident tackling it.
A Note On Canning Your Jam
If you’re looking to simplify your canning process, I can’t recommend the Roots & Harvest Electric Water Bath Canner enough!
It frees up precious stove space while maintaining the perfect temperature for safe canning. Along with their durable jars, I always use SafeCrate containers to securely store and transport my jams. They’re a game-changer for keeping the jars safe when I’m driving to deliver them as gifts to friends and family. Functional and reliable—just what every homesteader needs!
And after you’ve made jam, make sure to try a few of my other cranberry recipes.
I’ve got quite the collection from Cranberry cookies, to pound cake, to this winter drink, and even my version of a cranberry cheesecake.
Spiced Cranberry Jam
Ingredients
- 24 oz cranberries fresh
- 3 cups white sugar or swap for coconut sugar or brown sugar for a deeper flavor
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2/3 large orange including the peel for zest and brightness
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the cranberries under cold water and slice the orange, peel and all. If you prefer a smoother jam, zest the orange and add the flesh separately. This creates the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Cook the Jam
Combine all the ingredients in a large pot over medium-high heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar. As the cranberries begin to burst, reduce to medium heat and simmer. Watch the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.
Blend to Desired Consistency
For a smoother jam, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Prefer a more rustic texture? A potato masher works beautifully to create a chunky jam consistency. - Ladle Jam into Sterile Jars
Wash jars with hot soapy water and keep them warm. Fill each sterile jar with the hot jam, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe jar rims with a clean, damp cloth, place the lids, and tighten the bands.
Process in a Water Bath Canner
Using a jar lifter, carefully place jars into a boiling water bath. Process for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool at room temperature. Ensure the jars are sealed before storing.
Tips for the Best Homemade Jam
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of maple syrup or replacing some sugar with brown sugar.
If you want a jam with less sugar, you can reduce the amount slightly, but this may affect the texture.
For immediate use, store your jam in an airtight container in the fridge instead of canning.
Versatile Ways to Use Spiced Cranberry Jam
This jam is a perfect addition to your holiday table and beyond:
Spread it on sourdough bread with butter.
Use it as a glaze for roasted meats like ham or turkey.
Add a dollop to a slice of cheesecake or mix it into yogurt for a sweet treat.
Pair it with cream cheese for the ultimate party appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This good recipe combines the rich, festive flavors of the holidays into a jar. It’s the easiest jam to make, requiring no additional pectin or fancy tools. Just a love for creating something special. The warm spices, zesty orange, and tart cranberries will transport you back to the coziest moments of the holiday time every time you open a jar.
So grab a bag of fresh cranberries at your local grocery stores, and let’s get started on preserving the best of the season.
Capture the holiday season with this Spiced Cranberry Jam! Tart cranberries, warm spices, and orange make this festive spread perfect for toast, cream cheese, or gifting. Try it and tag me on Instagram, I’d love to see your creations! Don’t forget to check out my About Me page to learn more about our cozy farmhouse life and seasonal recipes.
