There’s nothing quite like the aroma of citrus simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Homemade marmalade has a way of turning simple ingredients into a jar of sunshine, perfect for breakfast toast, scones, or even as a glaze for roasted meats. Among all the fruity spreads, Orange-Cranberry Marmalade stands out for its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly tart flavors.
This easy marmalade combines the bright zest of oranges and lemons with the jewel-like tartness of fresh cranberries. It’s a vibrant, versatile spread that’s ideal for the holidays, gifting, or simply enjoying a taste of homemade goodness any day of the week. The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or years of experience—just a few fresh ingredients, a pot, and some patience.
Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or trying your hand at preserving for the first time, this Easy Orange-Cranberry Marmalade is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Its sweet-tart complexity and zesty fragrance make it a standout addition to your pantry.
Recipe Overview
Easy Orange-Cranberry Marmalade is a homemade fruit spread that combines oranges, lemon, and fresh cranberries with sugar and pectin to create a tangy-sweet, slightly chunky marmalade. Bright, flavorful, and naturally festive, it’s perfect on toast, muffins, or as a versatile condiment in both sweet and savory dishes.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 4 medium oranges
- 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
- 4 cups sugar
- 3 ounces liquid fruit pectin
- 6 tablespoons water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit
Start by zesting the oranges and lemon. Set the zest aside—it will add a fragrant, tangy boost to the marmalade. Remove the remaining peel from the oranges and lemon, then chop the fruit into small pieces. Place the chopped citrus in a large pot with the roughly chopped cranberries and sugar.
Stir the mixture well to combine the sugar evenly with the fruit. This step helps draw out the natural juices, ensuring a well-balanced marmalade.
2. Cook the Fruit Mixture
Bring the fruit and sugar mixture to a full boil over medium-high heat. Boil briefly, just enough to start softening the fruit and blending the flavors, then remove the pot from heat. This prevents overcooking and keeps the fruit pieces slightly chunky for texture.
3. Prepare the Pectin
In a small saucepan, combine the liquid fruit pectin with water. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute. Pectin is key for achieving the perfect consistency—smooth, spreadable, and slightly gelled.
4. Combine and Stir
Pour the hot pectin mixture into the pot with the orange-cranberry mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pectin is evenly distributed, blending the ingredients into a cohesive marmalade.
Tip: For extra flavor, fold in the reserved citrus zest at this stage—it adds a bright, zesty aroma and enhances the overall taste.
5. Jar and Store
Spoon the hot marmalade into clean, sterilized jars, leaving a little headspace at the top. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before sealing.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the marmalade for up to 6 months.
This easy marmalade is ready to enjoy right away, or you can let the flavors develop for a few days for an even richer taste.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Adjust Sweetness
Depending on the tartness of your cranberries, you can adjust the sugar slightly. Start with the recipe amount, taste after cooking, and add a little more if needed.
2. Chunky or Smooth
For a smoother marmalade, use an immersion blender after combining with the pectin. For a chunky, rustic texture, leave the fruit as-is.
3. Spice It Up
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the fruit mixture for a warm, festive flavor.
4. Citrus Variations
Experiment with different citrus fruits like tangerines or grapefruits to create unique flavor combinations.
5. Quick Gift Idea
Fill small mason jars with the marmalade, tie with a ribbon, and label them for homemade gifts during the holidays. It’s personal, thoughtful, and delicious.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerate jars for up to 3 weeks.
- Freeze for up to 6 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Use clean utensils to avoid contamination and preserve freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread on toast, bagels, or English muffins for a sweet start to the day.
- Dollop over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup.
- Stir into yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity boost.
- Use as a glaze for roasted chicken or pork for a sweet-tart twist.
This Easy Orange-Cranberry Marmalade is a versatile, vibrant, and utterly delicious homemade spread. Its sweet-tart flavor profile, paired with zesty citrus notes, makes it a perfect addition to your breakfast table or a creative ingredient in savory dishes.
Simple enough for beginners, yet flavorful enough to impress guests, this marmalade is a testament to the magic of fresh fruit, sugar, and pectin coming together. Once you taste this bright, fragrant spread, you’ll understand why homemade marmalade is such a cherished pantry staple.
Whether enjoyed on warm toast with butter, stirred into oatmeal, or gifted to friends and family, this marmalade is a little jar of sunshine and comfort.
FAQs
1. How long does this marmalade last?
Refrigerated, it lasts up to 3 weeks; frozen, up to 6 months.
2. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Thaw them slightly before use, and drain excess liquid if necessary.
3. Do I need pectin?
Pectin ensures the marmalade sets properly. Without it, the texture will be looser.
4. Can I make it less sweet?
Yes, reduce sugar slightly, but keep in mind sugar also helps preserve the marmalade.
5. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely. Try adding apples or pear for added texture and flavor.
Make homemade Easy Orange-Cranberry Marmalade with fresh citrus and cranberries. Sweet, tangy, and perfect for toast, gifts, or glazes. Simple, vibrant, and delicious!
