There’s something truly special about homemade jam that brings a burst of fresh flavor to any meal. Our cranberry raspberry jam recipes combine the tartness of cranberries with the sweet juiciness of raspberries to create a vibrant spread that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a glaze for meats. These recipes are easy to follow and deliver a rich, tangy taste that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect cranberry raspberry jam, selecting fresh and quality ingredients is essential. Each component plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and preservation.
Fresh Cranberries
We use Fresh Cranberries as the base for our jam. Their natural tartness provides a vibrant contrast to the sweet raspberries, creating that signature tangy flavor.
- Amount: 4 cups (approximately 12 ounces)
- Preparation: Rinse thoroughly under cold water and discard any damaged or soft berries.
- Note: Fresh cranberries burst during cooking releasing natural pectin, helping the jam set.
Fresh Raspberries
Adding Fresh Raspberries introduces a rich sweetness and delicate texture that complements the cranberries beautifully.
- Amount: 3 cups (about 15 ounces)
- Preparation: Gently rinse and pat dry to avoid crushing. Use ripe but firm raspberries for best results.
- Tip: Combining raspberries with cranberries balances tart and sweet notes perfectly.
Sugar
Sugar is essential for sweetness and preservation, as well as helping the jam thicken properly.
| Type | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 4 cups (32 ounces) | Sweetens and thickens jam |
| Optional alternatives | Honey or natural sweetener (equal volume) | For a different flavor profile |
- We recommend using plain granulated sugar for classic jam texture.
- Ensure accurate measurement for proper consistency and shelf life.
Pectin (Optional)
Pectin is a natural gelling agent that helps jams set faster and firmer.
- Amount: 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered pectin if needed.
- When to use: Add if your berries are not very ripe or if you prefer a thicker jam.
- Note: Cranberries naturally contain pectin, but raspberry pectin can vary by season.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice balances sweetness and enhances flavor while aiding in preservation through acidity.
- Amount: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Importance: Helps activate pectin and brightens the tart notes of the fruit.
- Tip: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best crisp citrus aroma.
With these precise ingredients, we ensure our cranberry raspberry jam delivers a rich, tangy, and perfectly textured spread every time.
Equipment Needed
To make homemade cranberry raspberry jam successfully, having the right equipment is essential for a smooth and efficient process. Here’s the list of tools we recommend for the best results.
Canning Jars and Lids
Using sterilized canning jars and new lids is crucial for preserving the jam safely. We suggest wide-mouth jars for easier filling and cleaning. Always ensure lids have intact seals to lock in freshness.
- Glass jars with airtight lids
- Jar sizes: 4 oz to 8 oz for easy storage and gift options
- Sterilize jars by boiling or dishwasher sterilization
Large Pot or Jam Cooker
A heavy-bottomed large pot or a specialized jam cooker helps evenly heat the fruit mixture, preventing scorching or burning. This pot must be large enough to hold and boil the entire batch comfortably with some extra space.
| Essential Features | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Heavy bottom | Distributes heat evenly |
| Large capacity (5-8 quarts) | Prevents overflow during boiling |
| High sides | Controls splatters and boil-overs |
Mixing Bowls
We use medium to large Mixing Bowls to combine fruit with sugar and lemon juice before cooking. Using non-reactive materials like glass or stainless steel avoids unwanted flavors or discoloration.
- 2-3 bowls for prepping ingredients
- Glass or stainless steel preferred for acidity resistance
Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Stirring the jam mixture with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula ensures even cooking without damaging cookware. These tools provide sturdy support for thickening fruit jams.
- Wooden spoon for gentle mixing
- Silicone spatula for scraping jar sides cleanly
Ladle and Jar Funnel
To fill jars without mess, a ladle and a jar funnel are indispensable. The ladle helps control liquid volume and minimizes spills, while the funnel directs the jam precisely into jars.
- Ladle size: 1/2 cup or adjustable
- Wide-mouth jar funnel to fit standard canning jars
Candy Thermometer (Optional)
While not mandatory, a candy thermometer helps monitor jam temperature to achieve the perfect gel point, typically around 220°F (104°C). This tool ensures consistency every time.
- Clip-on candy thermometer for easy monitoring
- Useful for beginners mastering jam setting stages
Having this basic jam-making equipment ready enhances both the safety and quality of our cranberry raspberry jam. With these tools, we set ourselves up for a delicious and satisfying homemade preserve experience.
Preparation
Proper preparation is crucial for making delicious cranberry raspberry jam. Let’s ensure we start with clean, sorted fruit and sterilized jars for safe and lasting preserves.
Washing and Sorting Fruit
We begin by thoroughly washing the fresh cranberries and raspberries under cold running water. This step removes any dirt, debris, or residual pesticides. Next, we carefully sort through the fruit to discard any damaged, moldy, or underripe berries. Quality fruit guarantees a vibrant color and optimal flavor in our cranberry raspberry jam.
- Rinse cranberries and raspberries separately in a colander.
- Gently pat raspberries dry with a paper towel to preserve their delicate texture.
- Remove stems and leaves from raspberries.
- Discard any soft, mushy, or discolored berries.
Following these steps ensures a clean base and a consistent texture for our jam.
| Step | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Wash under cold water | Remove dirt and pesticides | Clean fruit ready for jam |
| Sort and discard poor fruit | Eliminate off-flavors and spoilage risk | Bright flavorful jam with ideal texture |
| Dry raspberries gently | Maintain fragile berry structure | Better consistency in finished jam |
Sterilizing Jars and Lids
Safe preservation requires sterilized jars and lids. We can sterilize them using boiling water or an oven method:
- Wash jars and lids with hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Submerge jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
- Alternatively, place clean jars in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Keep jars hot until filling to prevent breakage and ensure a proper seal.
Proper sterilization prevents contamination and extends the shelf life of our cranberry raspberry jam.
| Method | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling Water | 10 minutes | 212°F (100°C) | Fully submerge jars and lids |
| Oven | 10–15 minutes | 275°F (135°C) | Heat only jars (do not heat lids) |
We recommend using wide-mouth jars for easier filling and cleaning. Sterilizing is a key safety step that enhances the quality and reliability of our homemade jam.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to transform fresh cranberries and raspberries into a luscious cranberry raspberry jam. Precision and attention to detail ensure the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness in every batch.
Cooking the Fruit Mixture
- Place the fresh, cleaned cranberries and raspberries into a large heavy-bottomed pot.
- Add lemon juice (about 2 tablespoons) to brighten the flavor and assist preservation.
- Gently heat the fruit over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula.
- Cook the fruit until the cranberries burst and raspberries soften, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stir carefully to avoid breaking too many raspberries. The mixture will become thick and fragrant, blending tartness and sweetness.
Adding Sugar and Pectin
- Gradually pour in the specified amount of granulated sugar (refer to your recipe—usually about 3 cups per 4 cups of fruit).
- If using, sprinkle pectin evenly over the mixture to avoid clumps. This step helps achieve a firmer set.
- Stir vigorously for 3 to 5 minutes ensuring sugar and pectin dissolve completely.
- The sugar will balance the tart cranberries and help maintain texture during boiling.
Boiling to Jam Consistency
- Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Stir constantly to prevent scorching and promote even cooking.
- Boil for exactly 1 to 2 minutes or until the mixture thickens and reaches gel point.
- Use a candy thermometer if available; the ideal temperature to hit the gel point is 220°F (104°C).
| Key Boiling Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Boiling Time | 1 to 2 minutes |
| Gel Point Temperature | 220°F (104°C) |
| Stirring | Constant to prevent sticking |
Testing Jam Thickness
- Remove a small spoonful of jam and place it on a chilled plate.
- Allow it to cool for 1 minute, then push with your finger.
- If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it has reached the correct consistency.
- If it remains runny, return to the heat and continue boiling, checking every 30 seconds.
By mastering these steps we guarantee a perfectly set, flavorful cranberry raspberry jam perfect for spreading, glazing, and savoring.
Canning and Storing
Proper canning and storing techniques preserve the vibrant flavor and texture of our cranberry raspberry jam. Let’s ensure every jar stays fresh, safe, and delicious for months.
Filling Jars with Jam
- Use sterilized wide-mouth jars for easy filling and cleaning.
- Place a jar funnel at the mouth of the jar to avoid spills and sticky messes.
- Ladle the hot jam into each jar, leaving a ¼ inch headspace at the top to allow for expansion during processing.
- Remove any air bubbles by gently sliding a non-metallic spatula or chopstick along the inside of the jar.
- Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp paper towel to ensure a proper seal.
Sealing and Processing Jars
- Place sterilized lids and bands firmly onto jars. Screw bands on until fingertip tight—avoid over-tightening, which can prevent air from escaping.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to kill bacteria and create a vacuum seal.
- Ensure water covers the jars by at least 1 inch.
- Start timing once the water returns to a full boil.
- Remove jars carefully using a jar lifter.
| Processing Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Water Bath Duration | 10 minutes |
| Water Level over Jars | 1 inch minimum |
| Lid Tightness | Fingertip tight |
| Equipment Needed | Jar lifter, boiling water bath |
Cooling and Storing Jam
- Place jars upright on a towel or cooling rack in a draft-free area.
- Allow jars to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
- During cooling, lids will “pop” indicating a successful vacuum seal.
- Test seals by pressing the center of each lid; a sealed lid does not flex up and down.
- Label jars with date and contents.
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place such as a pantry.
- Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks.
Tip: If any jars fail to seal, refrigerate and use within a month or reprocess with a new lid.
Following these steps guarantees that our cranberry raspberry jam retains its rich color, tangy sweetness, and fresh-picked aroma.
Variations and Tips
Exploring variations and tips can help us customize cranberry raspberry jam to our taste preferences and dietary needs. Let’s dive into ways to enhance or modify the recipe for perfect results every time.
Adding Spices or Flavor Enhancers
Introducing spices or additional flavors can elevate our cranberry raspberry jam by adding depth and complexity. Here are some popular options:
- Cinnamon sticks: Infuse warm, sweet notes by simmering a cinnamon stick with the fruit mixture. Remove before jarring.
- Vanilla bean or extract: Add a half vanilla bean pod during cooking or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after cooking for a creamy aroma.
- Ginger: Fresh grated or ground ginger adds a spicy zing, balancing the tartness beautifully.
- Orange zest: Adds fresh citrus brightness and complements the berries’ flavor.
- Cloves or allspice: Use sparingly for a rich, autumnal twist.
- Herbs like rosemary or thyme: Infuse subtle earthiness for adventurous palettes—use fresh sprigs during simmering and remove before bottling.
We recommend adding these enhancers early in the cooking process to extract maximum flavor or at the end for a more pronounced taste. Adjust quantities carefully to avoid overpowering the natural berry flavors.
Sugar-Free and Low-Sugar Options
For those looking to reduce sugar intake without compromising on taste or texture, we can adapt the classic cranberry raspberry jam recipe:
| Method | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Use natural sweeteners | Substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave (use ¾ cup for every 1 cup sugar). | These will slightly alter flavor and texture. |
| Low-sugar pectin | Use pectin designed for low-sugar or no-sugar jams, available commercially. | Follow pectin package instructions for perfect setting. |
| Fruit-only sweetness | Rely on the berries’ natural sugars; increase cooking time for thicker jam. | May result in a runnier jam, best refrigerated and consumed soon. |
Using lemon juice remains essential to balance flavors and enhance preservation. For sugar-free jams, refrigeration and faster consumption are key to maintaining safety and flavor.
Using Frozen Berries
Frozen berries are an excellent alternative when fresh cranberries and raspberries are out of season or unavailable. Here’s how to best incorporate them into our jam:
- Do not thaw before cooking. Add frozen berries directly to the pot to prevent mushy texture and excessive water in the jam.
- Increase cooking time slightly to account for extra moisture released from frozen fruit.
- Adjust sugar as needed since frozen berries can sometimes be less sweet than fresh.
- Check for gel point (220°F / 104°C) precisely to achieve proper setting despite moisture variations.
By following these tips, frozen berries deliver convenience without sacrificing the vibrant, tangy sweetness characteristic of our cranberry raspberry jam recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Our homemade cranberry raspberry jam offers endless ways to elevate meals and treats with its vibrant, tangy-sweet flavor. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this versatile jam throughout the day and beyond.
Breakfast Ideas
Start your day on a delicious note by incorporating cranberry raspberry jam into your morning routine.
- Spread generously on warm toasted artisan bread or flaky croissants for a bright fruity twist.
- Swirl into plain or vanilla yogurt bowls topped with granola and fresh berries.
- Use as a filling for crepes or pancakes to add a burst of tangy sweetness.
- Dollop onto cream cheese or ricotta and serve with bagels or English muffins.
| Breakfast Pairings | Description |
|---|---|
| Toast or Croissants | Classic simple spread |
| Yogurt with Granola | Creamy texture with crunch |
| Pancake or Crepe Filling | Sweet functionality and flavor |
| Bagels with Cream Cheese | Rich and tangy complement |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Our cranberry raspberry jam perfectly enhances desserts with its natural fruitiness and deep color.
- Spoon over vanilla, chocolate, or lemon ice cream for a refreshing topping.
- Fill thumbprint cookies or sandwich it between layers of sponge cake.
- Layer into parfaits or trifles with whipped cream and cake pieces.
- Glaze tarts, cheesecakes, or fruit pies for a glossy finish and subtle tartness.
| Dessert Uses | Flavor & Texture Benefit |
|---|---|
| Ice Cream Topping | Refreshing, vibrant contrast |
| Cookie or Cake Filling | Sweet and slightly tart balance |
| Parfaits and Trifles | Layered complexity |
| Glazing for Pies & Tarts | Adds shine and tang |
Gift Wrapping Jam Jars
Sharing our cranberry raspberry jam makes for a thoughtful, homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
- Choose charming wide-mouth jars for easy filling and attractive presentation.
- Decorate with colorful fabric covers, tied with rustic twine or ribbon.
- Attach personalized tags with serving suggestions or recipe notes.
- For holiday gifting, add a small wooden spoon or spreader to complete the package.
Helpful Tips for Gift Presentation:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Jar Selection | Sterilized, wide-mouth jars are ideal |
| Decoration | Fabric covers, twine, ribbon |
| Tagging | Handwritten or printed recipe cards |
| Extras | Small wooden spoon or spreader |
Embrace the rich flavor of cranberry raspberry jam by experimenting with these serving ideas that bring warmth and flavor to any occasion.
Conclusion
Making cranberry raspberry jam at home lets us enjoy a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors anytime. With just a few quality ingredients and simple steps, we can create a versatile spread that elevates breakfasts, desserts, and even savory dishes.
By customizing recipes and experimenting with serving ideas, we keep our jam experience fresh and exciting. Plus, sharing homemade jars adds a personal touch to gifts that everyone will appreciate.
Let’s keep exploring and savoring the vibrant taste of cranberry raspberry jam in all its delicious forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cranberry raspberry jam unique in flavor?
Cranberry raspberry jam combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the natural sweetness of raspberries, creating a balanced, tangy, and flavorful spread that’s perfect for many uses.
What ingredients are essential for homemade cranberry raspberry jam?
The key ingredients are fresh cranberries, fresh raspberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and optional pectin to help the jam set firmer.
What equipment do I need to make cranberry raspberry jam?
You’ll need sterilized canning jars and lids, a heavy-bottomed pot or jam cooker, and non-reactive mixing bowls for safe and effective jam-making.
How do I prepare the fruit before making jam?
Wash and sort the cranberries and raspberries carefully to remove debris, stems, or spoiled fruit to ensure a clean, fresh jam base.
Can I use frozen berries to make cranberry raspberry jam?
Yes, frozen berries can be used and usually require slightly longer cooking to break down and release juices adequately.
What is the role of lemon juice in cranberry raspberry jam?
Lemon juice adds a subtle acidity that enhances flavor, helps balance sweetness, and acts as a natural preservative.
How do I know when the jam has reached the right consistency?
Boil the mixture until it thickens and passes the “wrinkle test” on a cold plate or reaches 220°F (104°C) on a candy thermometer.
How should I store homemade cranberry raspberry jam?
Store jam in sterilized, sealed jars in a cool, dark place; refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness and flavor.
Are there sugar-free alternatives for making this jam?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or use sugar-free pectin to make a lower-sugar version.
What are some popular ways to serve cranberry raspberry jam?
Popular uses include spreading it on toast, filling crepes, topping ice cream, glazing meats, or adding it to desserts like tarts.