Homemade cranberry jam simmering in a red cast-iron pot.

Every year, as the holidays approach, I find myself reaching for the classic flavors of the season. This Easy Homemade Cranberry Jam started as a simple component for a baked brie recipe, but it was so delicious we knew it deserved its own spotlight.

Unlike overly sweet, canned jellies, this jam is packed with a bright, tart flavor, sweetened with maple syrup, and warmed with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla. It has a wonderful texture and is incredibly versatile. It's perfect on your morning toast, a fantastic glaze for roasted meats, and of course, the star ingredient in our Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie.

This recipe is incredibly simple and comes together in under 20 minutes. Here's how to make it.

(This is the perfect spot to insert your beautiful new photo!)

 

Easy Homemade Cranberry Jam

 

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Yields: Approx. 1.5 cups

 

Ingredients

 

  • 2 cups (approx. 8 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 pinch of salt

 

Instructions

 

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
  3. Simmer and Thicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. You'll hear the cranberries start to pop and burst. Continue to stir as the mixture breaks down and begins to thicken.
  4. Cool and Store: Once the jam has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Carefully remove the cinnamon stick. The jam will continue to thicken significantly as it cools.
  5. Serve or Store: Let it cool completely before transferring it to a clean jar. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

 

Recipe Notes & Tips

 

  • Adjusting Sweetness: This jam has a pleasant tartness. If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add another tablespoon or two of maple syrup to taste.
  • Flavor Variations: Feel free to add a tablespoon of fresh orange zest along with the juice for an extra citrusy kick.
  • Making Ahead: This is the perfect recipe to make ahead of time for holiday gatherings. The flavors actually meld and get even better after a day or two in the fridge.