Description

Hey friends! Beau here. If you love homemade spreads that are bursting with flavor and warmth, this jam is a dream. Sweet strawberries, tart cranberries, bright orange, and a hint of cinnamon combine into a cozy, rustic jam that transforms toast, scones, yogurt, or even roasted meats. Simple, soulful, and endlessly versatile—this is jam you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) fresh cranberries – tart and naturally pectin-rich
1 lb (450g) strawberries, hulled and chopped – rustic texture recommended
Zest and chopped segments of 1 large orange – brings fresh citrus notes
1/4 cup (60ml) water or orange juice – prevents sticking and adds flavor
4 cups (800g) granulated sugar – essential for set and preservation
1 cinnamon stick – warm, aromatic background flavor

Optional Twists:

Fresh ginger slices or a pinch of cayenne for spice
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory touch
Vanilla bean pod for a floral, luxurious note
Low-sugar pectin or apple for firmer texture

Instructions

1. Prep the Fruit:

Rinse cranberries and remove any soft or bruised berries.
Hull and chop strawberries into uneven pieces for a rustic jam.
Zest and segment the orange, rolling it first to release juice.

2. Cook the Fruit:

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, combine cranberries, strawberries, orange zest, orange segments, and liquid.
Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and cranberries pop (~10 minutes).

3. Sweeten:

Lower heat. Gradually add sugar and drop in the cinnamon stick. Stir until dissolved.

4. Simmer & Thicken:

Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam should reduce, thicken, and develop a glossy sheen.

5. Check Texture:

Remove cinnamon stick. For smooth jam, pulse with an immersion blender; leave chunky if preferred.
Optional “wrinkle test”: drop a spoonful on a chilled plate. If the surface wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.

6. Jar the Jam:

Wash and sterilize jars and lids.
Ladle hot jam into hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal, and cool. You’ll hear a satisfying “pop” as jars seal.

Notes

Patience is key: Let the jam simmer slowly to develop deep flavor.
Frozen fruit: Can be used but may require longer cooking.
Cinnamon stick vs ground cinnamon: Stick gives smooth, subtle flavor without gritty texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 180 Cal per 1/4 cup serving
Sugar: 44g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 47g