Canned Cranberries
Tangy, sweet, and bursting with festive flavor, this homemade canned cranberries recipe is the perfect addition to your holiday table or everyday meals. Made with fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and optional hints of orange juice and lemon zest for a citrusy twist, this simple yet versatile recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. The cranberries transform into a luscious, jam-like consistency as they cook, making them ideal as a classic Thanksgiving side dish, sandwich spread, or dessert topping. With easy step-by-step instructions for both immediate enjoyment and long-term canning storage, this recipe ensures you’ll enjoy the bright, tart flavors of cranberries all year long. Perfect for meal prep enthusiasts and holiday planners, this is the ultimate homemade take on a seasonal staple!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 0.25 cup orange juice (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and remove any stems or damaged berries.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, and orange juice (if using). Stir to dissolve the sugar while bringing the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Once the sugar-water mixture is boiling, add the cranberries. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the cranberries simmer, stirring occasionally.
As the cranberries cook, they will begin to pop. This typically takes around 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
If using, stir in the lemon zest once the cranberries have softened and thickened into a jam-like consistency.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Transfer the cranberry mixture into sterilized canning jars or a serving dish if not preserving long-term.
If canning for storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, then allow them to cool completely before labeling and storing in a cool, dark place.
Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish, spread, or topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
946 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.5 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 15 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 247.9 g | 90% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.5 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 219.7 g | ||
| Protein | 1.9 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 50 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 392 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
