Name: Crafting Sweetness: Homemade Cranberry Christmas Marmalade
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 4 medium-size Navel Oranges (Choose juicy oranges for the sweetest flavor and vibrant color.); 1 cup Coarsely Chopped Cranberries (Fresh cranberries elevate the tartness and add a delightful texture.); 4.25 cups Sugar (Enhances flavor and plays a crucial role in preservation.); 0.75 cup Water (Creates the right consistency for cooking.); 1 zest Lemon (Adds bright citrus notes.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (Provides acidity to balance sweetness.); 1.75 ounces Powdered Fruit Pectin (Essential for helping the marmalade set.)

As I stirred the bright mixture of juicy oranges and tangy cranberries, a familiar warmth filled my kitchen—a scent that felt like a hug from memories past. This Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade is not just a spread; it’s a celebration of the season, perfect for elevating your breakfast table or gifting to loved ones. With only 30 minutes of prep, it’s a quick and accessible delight that even novice cooks can master. This luscious marmalade beautifully balances sweet and tart flavors, making it a versatile companion for toast, yogurt, or your favorite cheese platter. Ready to bring a little extra joy to your holiday mornings? Let’s dive into this festive recipe!

Why is This Marmalade a Holiday Must-Have?

Simplicity, even novice cooks can whip up this delightful spread in just 30 minutes. Vibrant flavors of sweet oranges and tart cranberries create a taste that no store-bought option can match. Versatile uses make it perfect for breakfast toast, yogurt toppings, or even cheese boards—your guests will be thrilled! Thoughtful gifts are easy with this homemade treat, showcasing your culinary skills while spreading holiday cheer. Elevate your cooking game and explore other festive recipes like Feta Cranberry Rigatoni for a complete holiday experience!

Cranberry Christmas Marmalade Ingredients

For the Marmalade Base
• Medium-size Navel Oranges (4, or 3 if large) – Choose juicy oranges for the sweetest flavor and vibrant color.
• Coarsely Chopped Cranberries (1 cup) – Fresh cranberries elevate the tartness and add a delightful texture.
• Sugar (4 ¼ cups) – This sweetener not only enhances flavor but also plays a crucial role in preservation for your cranberry Christmas marmalade.
• Water (¾ cup) – This creates the right consistency for cooking; feel free to adjust as needed based on your preference.
For the Flavor Boosters
• Finely Zested Lemon (zest of 1 lemon) – Adds bright citrus notes; using fresh lemon zest will enhance your marmalade’s flavor profile significantly.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons) – Provides acidity to beautifully balance the sweetness of the marmalade; always opt for fresh juice over bottled for the best taste.
For the Setting Power
• Powdered Fruit Pectin (1.75 ounces) – Essential for helping the marmalade set, use SURE-JELL or a similar brand for optimal results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Christmas Marmalade

Step 1: Prepare Jars
Start by washing your glass jars and lids thoroughly in hot soapy water, or you can run them through the dishwasher for a thorough clean. Make sure they are completely dried to avoid any moisture mixing with your cranberry Christmas marmalade later. This recipe yields about 5 cups of delightful spread, so have enough jars ready.

Step 2: Zest and Chop Citrus
Using a microplane, zest the navel oranges and the lemon, carefully avoiding the bitter white pith. Once zested, finely chop the remaining peel of the oranges, being sure to capture all that beautiful citrus flavor. Set your zests aside on a plate, as these will be added later to enhance your cranberry Christmas marmalade’s aroma and taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped oranges, coarsely chopped cranberries, and sugar. Stir the mixture well until the sugar begins to dissolve, creating a lovely, fragrant mix. Add 2⅓ cups of this mixture back to the pot, preparing for the cooking process ahead that will meld all these vibrant flavors together.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, watching for bubbles that persist even when stirred. This boiling action is essential for the proper cooking of your cranberry Christmas marmalade and helps to combine the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare Pectin
In a separate small saucepan, mix the powdered fruit pectin with ¾ cup of water. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. Once it has reached a vigorous boil, remove it from heat. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your marmalade, so ensure you keep stirring to avoid clumping.

Step 6: Combine Pectin with Fruit Mixture
Quickly add the hot pectin mixture to your fruit and sugar blend in the large pot. Incorporate the reserved zests and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, stirring continuously for about 3 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture thickening as you stir, creating that perfect texture for your cranberry Christmas marmalade.

Step 7: Transfer to Jars
With a clean ladle, pour the hot marmalade into your prepared jars immediately, filling each jar to within ½ inch of the top. Make sure to use a funnel if needed to avoid spills. Be quick with this step to seal in all the flavors of your freshly made cranberry Christmas marmalade.

Step 8: Seal and Cool
Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth to ensure no residue sits between the lid and jar. Cover each jar with its lid while the marmalade is still warm, and let them stand at room temperature for a few hours. After cooling, transfer your jars to the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or freeze them for longer storage of up to 1 year.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Christmas Marmalade

Choose the Right Fruit: Fresh, juicy oranges and cranberries enhance flavor—opt for vibrant, plump fruits for a festive taste in your cranberry Christmas marmalade.
Zest Carefully: Use a microplane to zest the oranges and lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith for a sweet, bright marmalade that your family will love.
Achieve a Rolling Boil: Essential for proper consistency, ensure you reach a full rolling boil while cooking; this activation is key for your marmalade to set perfectly.
Stir Continuously: When adding pectin, keep stirring to prevent clumping. This creates a smooth texture in your cranberry Christmas marmalade, ensuring delicious results.
Seal Properly: Wipe jar rims clean before sealing to avoid leakage. A secure seal allows for longer storage and keeps your marmalade fresh and tasty!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Christmas Marmalade

Fridge: Store your cranberry Christmas marmalade in clean, airtight jars for up to 3 weeks. Keep it tightly sealed to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the marmalade in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars. It will last for up to 1 year; just be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen marmalade overnight in the refrigerator before using. Always stir well before serving to restore its lovely texture.

Cranberry Christmas Marmalade Variations

Feel free to have fun and customize your marmalade experience with these simple twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Berry Blast: Replace cranberries with fresh raspberries for a delightful berry flavor that adds a vibrant hue to your marmalade. This alternative is especially refreshing and offers a unique twist for summertime enjoyment!
Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger while cooking for a warm, aromatic kick. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also evoke cozy holiday memories, making your marmalade perfect for winter gatherings.
Citrus Medley: Mix in a few tablespoons of zested lime or grapefruit along with the oranges for a zesty citrus explosion. This variation introduces tangy depth, elevating your cranberry Christmas marmalade beyond the ordinary!
Reduced Sugar: Swap out regular sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to reduce the sweetness while keeping it delicious. Just adjust the amounts based on your sweet preference, ensuring a healthier twist on this classic treat.
Chili Pepper Kick: For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. The combination of sweet and heat creates a tantalizing flavor that will surprise and delight your guests when paired with cheese or spreads!
Herb Infusion: Enhance the tart-sweet flavor with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme while cooking. Remove the herbs before canning for a sophisticated aroma basis that beautifully complements savory dishes, adding complexity to your marmalade.
Vegan Version: Use maple syrup or agave instead of granulated sugar accompanied by a pectin that is vegan-friendly. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious cranberry Christmas marmalade during the holiday season!

For even more inspiration, don’t forget to check out how to elevate your meals with Feta Cranberry Rigatoni or add a festive flair to your cheese platters!

What to Serve with Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade

Imagine your kitchen adorned with the cheerful spirit of the holidays, as you savor the perfect bite of tangy-sweet marmalade on fresh toast or biscuits.

Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits: Their buttery, flaky texture serves as a delightful base for the tangy marmalade, enhancing its fruity brightness.
Creamy Goat Cheese: The rich, tangy notes of goat cheese contrast wonderfully with the sweet tartness, making for a sophisticated cheese board pairing.
Warm Scones: Freshly baked scones provide a light, crumbly vessel, making every bite a comforting experience when topped with the vibrant marmalade.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer in some yogurt, granola, and a generous dollop of marmalade for a refreshing breakfast full of flavor and texture.
French Toast: Elevate your brunch game by drizzling the marmalade over golden-brown French toast; it adds an enchanting holiday twist.
Cheese Platter: Pair with brie or sharp cheddar on a festive cheese board, and watch your guests delight in the unexpected flavors.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly complements the sweetness while its effervescence cuts through the marmalade’s richness, making your toast-to-celebration seamless.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: Toss together a medley of winter fruits with a touch of marmalade for a bright, uplifting side dish bursting with fresh flavor.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade in advance is a smart way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can zest the oranges and lemon, and chop the cranberries up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the chopped fruit and sugar together and refrigerate this mixture for up to 3 days; just remember to bring it back to room temperature before cooking. When you’re ready to finish your marmalade, simply follow the cooking instructions, incorporating your prepped ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade treat with minimal effort!

Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade Recipe FAQs

What kind of oranges should I use for marmalade?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade, choose juicy Navel oranges. They provide the perfect balance of sweetness and intensity. Look for medium-sized oranges; larger ones can work, but remember to adjust the quantity accordingly.

How should I store my marmalade?
You can keep your cranberry Christmas marmalade in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Just ensure it’s in a clean, airtight jar to preserve its bright, tasty flavors. If you wish to store it longer, you can freeze it; it will maintain its delightful taste for up to 1 year when kept in freezer-safe containers or jars.

Can I freeze the marmalade?
Very! Freezing your Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade is a fantastic way to keep it on hand for future enjoyment. Pour the cooled marmalade into airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It’s best to use it within a year for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.

What if my marmalade doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your marmalade is too runny, it likely didn’t reach the right temperature during cooking. You can recook it by adding a little more powdered pectin, mixing it with some water first, and then bringing the mixture to a rolling boil again. Stir continuously for at least 3 minutes; this should help it thicken up quite nicely!

Is this recipe safe for allergies or dietary restrictions?
Very! This Easy Orange-Cranberry Christmas Marmalade is suitable for various dietary preferences. However, keep in mind that the recipe contains citrus and pectin, so if you or your guests have specific allergies, check those ingredients. It’s also a delightful, low-calorie treat, with about 47 calories per serving, so feel free to enjoy it guilt-free!

Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?
Absolutely! If you want to mix things up, you can substitute cranberries with raspberries for a different fruit essence. Just keep in mind that the tartness will change, so adjust the sugar as needed. Additionally, adding warming spices like cinnamon or ginger can elevate the flavor profile beautifully!