When you think of jam, what comes to mind? Perhaps a spreadable delight that dances on your breakfast toast, bursting with flavor and a hint of nostalgia. Now, imagine that same jam infused with warm spices that make your taste buds do a happy jig. That’s what Spiced Cranberry Jam brings to the table: a vibrant blend of tart cranberries and aromatic spices, perfect for livening up your morning routine or adding pizzazz to your holiday gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
Picture this: the kitchen fills with the sweet-tart aroma of simmering cranberries, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s as if a cozy blanket wrapped around you while you reminisce about festive family gatherings filled with laughter and joy. This Spiced Cranberry Jam is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an emotional connection to those special moments shared over delicious food. delicious festive berry trifle Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or Tuesday brunch, this jam guarantees to elevate every occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spiced Cranberry Jam is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for any home cook.
- The warm spice blend adds an unexpected twist that will impress your guests.
- Its rich red color makes it visually appealing on any table setting.
- Versatile enough to pair with meats or slather on pancakes, this jam does it all!
Ingredients for Spiced Cranberry Jam
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cranberries: About 12 ounces are needed; choose firm and vibrant berries for the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: You’ll use about 1 cup; it balances the tartness of cranberries perfectly.
- Water: Around 1 cup; it helps dissolve the sugar and cook the cranberries down into a delightful jam.
- Cinnamon Stick: One stick infuses warmth; feel free to add more if you love that spicy kick!
- Ground Cloves: Just half a teaspoon adds depth and an aromatic touch without overpowering.
- Zest of One Orange: This brightens up the flavor profile and adds a citrusy zing; don’t skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spiced Cranberry Jam
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing those fresh cranberries under cold water. Pick through them like you’re on a treasure hunt—remove any unripe or squishy ones because nobody wants those in their jam!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Pot
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, and orange zest. Stir everything together like you’re mixing up some magic potion.
Step 3: Cook Until Bubbly
Place your saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until everything begins bubbling away like it’s excited for its transformation into jam—about 10-15 minutes should do the trick!
Step 4: Smash Those Berries
Once bubbling, use a potato masher or fork to gently smash those cranberries. This releases their natural pectin and thickens your jam beautifully. Keep cooking for another few minutes until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring into jars. Once cooled completely at room temperature, seal them up tight in the fridge—if you can resist eating it all right away!
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Transfer your beautiful Spiced Cranberry Jam into bowls or small jars when ready to serve. Spread generously on toast or pair alongside roasted meats for an unforgettable flavor experience.
This recipe not only delivers fantastic taste but also brings back memories of cozy kitchens filled with delectable scents—each spoonful tells its own story! Enjoy crafting this delightful jam that transforms any meal into something special!
You Must Know
- This delightful spiced cranberry jam not only brightens your breakfast but also elevates any holiday meal.
- The burst of tartness and sweetness creates a harmony that dances on your taste buds, making it a must-have for any kitchen.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the cranberries with sugar and spices on medium heat, stirring occasionally. While the mixture simmers, prepare your jars for canning. Once the jam thickens, fill the jars, seal them tightly, and allow to cool.
Add Your Touch
Try swapping out traditional spices for something unique like ginger or cardamom. You can also toss in some orange zest or a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. Get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store your spiced cranberry jam in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. If you want to savor it longer, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to six months.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get that perfect texture, make sure to use fresh cranberries; they yield better flavor and consistency.
- Don’t skip the simmering step; patience is key for depth of flavor.
- Lastly, always taste as you go to adjust sweetness or spice levels!
Cooking this spiced cranberry jam reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen during Thanksgiving when her secret recipe filled the air with warmth and laughter.
FAQs:
What is Spiced Cranberry Jam?
Spiced Cranberry Jam is a delightful spread made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and a blend of warming spices such as cinnamon and ginger. This jam offers a unique twist on traditional fruit preserves by incorporating aromatic spices that enhance its flavor profile. sourdough croutons for savory dishes It’s perfect for spreading on toast, using in desserts, or pairing with savory dishes like cheese platters. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet spices creates a delicious and versatile jam that can elevate any meal or snack.
How do I store Spiced Cranberry Jam?
To store Spiced Cranberry Jam, first ensure it is completely cooled after cooking. Transfer the jam into clean, sterilized jars while it’s still warm. Seal the jars tightly and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. If you want to store the jam for longer periods, consider canning it using proper techniques to create a vacuum seal. Canned Spiced Cranberry Jam can last up to one year when stored in a cool, dark place.
Can I customize my Spiced Cranberry Jam recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your Spiced Cranberry Jam by adding different spices or fruits according to your taste preferences. For instance, you might include cloves for an extra kick or mix in apples for added sweetness. Adjusting the sugar content will also change the flavor; use less if you prefer a more tart jam. Experimenting with variations allows you to create a unique version of this delicious condiment tailored just for you.
What dishes pair well with Spiced Cranberry Jam?
Spiced Cranberry Jam pairs beautifully with various dishes. It complements breakfast items like pancakes and waffles, adds flavor to sandwiches, and enhances cheese boards featuring brie or goat cheese. For dessert lovers, try spreading it on scones or mixing it into yogurt. The versatility of this jam means it can find its way into many meals, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire.
Conclusion for Spiced Cranberry Jam:
In conclusion, Spiced Cranberry Jam is an exciting addition to your pantry that combines tartness with warm spices for a delightful flavor experience. Its easy preparation makes it accessible for all home cooks looking to elevate their meals or snacks. blueberry cream pie bars By storing it properly and customizing the recipe to suit your taste, you can enjoy this unique jam throughout the year. Whether used in breakfast dishes or as part of savory pairings, Spiced Cranberry Jam is sure to impress!
Spiced Cranberry Jam
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups (16 servings) 1x
Description
Spiced Cranberry Jam brings a festive flair to your table with its vibrant blend of tart cranberries and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make jam is perfect for spreading on toast, enhancing holiday dishes, or serving alongside meats. With its rich color and delightful aroma, Spiced Cranberry Jam transforms any meal into a special occasion!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries, discarding any unripe or squishy ones.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, and orange zest. Stir well.
- Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until bubbling.
- Gently smash the cranberries to release pectin and thicken the jam; cook for a few more minutes.
- Cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars and refrigerate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20g)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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