Cranberry Apple Jam Recipe Easy to Make and Delicious

There’s something truly magical about homemade jam—its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and the love that goes into crafting each batch. Today, we’re diving into a delightful cranberry apple jam recipe that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the natural sweetness of apples.

This jam is not only a fantastic way to preserve the flavors of the season, but it also makes a beautiful gift or a delicious addition to your breakfast table. Whether you spread it on toast, dollop it on yogurt, or use it as a glaze for roasted dishes, this cranberry apple jam will quickly become a pantry favorite.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can master this recipe. Plus, making your own jam means you control the sugar and quality of ingredients, making it a wholesome treat.

So, grab your apron, and let’s create a jar of this luscious, fruity goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry apple jam recipe is a harmonious blend of two classic fruits, each bringing its unique flavor and texture to the table. The cranberries provide a tart zing that wakes up your taste buds, while the apples add body and sweetness, making the jam balanced and versatile.

It’s naturally vibrant in color, free from artificial preservatives, and contains no high-fructose corn syrup or unnecessary additives. The recipe is customizable—you can tweak the sweetness, add warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even infuse it with a splash of orange juice for extra brightness.

Moreover, this jam is perfect for gifting during the holidays or enjoying year-round as a comforting homemade treat. It also pairs beautifully with various dishes, from classic PB&J sandwiches to gourmet cheese boards.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cranberries (about 12 ounces)
• 3 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples, Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup water
• 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (optional, for thicker jam)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Food processor or potato masher (optional, for desired texture)
• Sterilized glass jars with lids
• Funnel (optional, for easy jar filling)
• Ladle
• Jar lifter or tongs (if water-bath canning)

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly under cold water and drain. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Combine ingredients in the pot. In your large saucepan, add the cranberries, chopped apples, sugar, lemon juice, and water. If you’re using cinnamon and nutmeg, add them now for a warm, spiced flavor.
3. Cook the mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently.
4. Simmer until fruit softens. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will pop and break down, and the apples will soften. If you prefer a smoother jam, lightly mash the fruit with a potato masher or pulse briefly in a food processor.
5. Add pectin if desired. If you want your jam thicker and more set, stir in the fruit pectin according to the package instructions. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes.
6. Test the jam’s consistency. To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s done. If not, continue simmering and test again every few minutes.
7. Remove from heat and jar. Once the jam reaches your desired thickness, remove the pot from heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace.
8. Seal and cool. Wipe the rims to ensure they’re clean, seal the jars with lids, and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe apples and cranberries. Choose a tart apple variety to complement the cranberries for a perfectly balanced jam.”

• Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to reduce or increase the sugar according to your taste or dietary needs. You can also substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, but be mindful of how it affects the consistency.
• Spice it Up: Add a cinnamon stick during cooking or a splash of vanilla extract after cooking for a unique twist.
• Chunky or Smooth: For a chunkier jam, lightly mash the fruit after cooking. For smooth jam, blend with an immersion blender before jarring.
• Canning Notes: If you plan on storing the jam long-term, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
• Orange Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest for a citrusy brightness that pairs wonderfully with cranberry and apple.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry apple jam shines in so many ways. Spread it on warm toast or bagels for a comforting breakfast, or swirl it into plain yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity boost.

It’s also a fantastic complement to cheese plates, especially with creamy brie or sharp cheddar. Try it as a glaze for roasted pork or chicken for a sweet-tart contrast that elevates your dish.

For a quick dessert, spoon the jam over vanilla ice cream or use it as a filling in thumbprint cookies. The possibilities are endless!

Looking for more delicious ways to use fruit preserves? Check out our Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy or explore savory pairings in Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe for Easy Healthy Snacking.

Conclusion

Making your own cranberry apple jam is a rewarding and delicious endeavor that brings the warmth of homemade goodness right to your table. This recipe is simple to follow, uses wholesome ingredients, and results in a jam bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect texture.

Whether you’re a jam-making novice or an experienced home cook, this jam is sure to impress.

Beyond just a tasty spread, it’s a versatile ingredient that can enhance breakfasts, snacks, and even main dishes. Plus, sharing homemade jam is a heartfelt way to connect with family and friends.

For more creative and wholesome recipes, don’t forget to explore our other favorites like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious and Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Happy cooking and jam-making!

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