The Perfect Homemade Orange Jam Recipe for Bright Breakfast Joy

Sweet, tangy homemade orange jam bursts with vibrant citrus flavor that dances on your taste buds.

Crafting this delightful spread transforms ordinary mornings into something extraordinary.

Ripe, juicy oranges become a delectable preserve with just a few simple ingredients.

The bright, zesty notes will make you fall in love with this easy-to-make condiment.

Each spoonful captures the essence of fresh oranges, creating a sunshine-filled preserve that elevates toast, pastries, and breakfast treats.

Prepare to savor a homemade jam that connects you directly to the pure, natural sweetness of citrus.

You’ll want to share this delicious creation with everyone at the table.

Helpful Tips For Homemade Orange Jam

• Remove the white pith completely from orange peels to prevent bitter undertones in your jam.
• Use the chilled plate method or candy thermometer to ensure perfect jam thickness without overcooking.
• Adjust sugar quantity based on the oranges' natural sweetness for a balanced flavor profile.
• Stir the mixture frequently during simmering to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Sterilize glass jars thoroughly to extend the jam's shelf life and maintain food safety.

Flavorful Variations For Homemade Orange Jam

• Low-Sugar Orange Marmalade: Replace half the sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a diabetic-friendly version.
• Spiced Citrus Spread: Add ground cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger during cooking to create a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
• Boozy Orange Preserve: Incorporate a splash of Grand Marnier or rum during the final minutes of cooking for an adult-friendly variation.
• Herbal Citrus Jam: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary during simmering to introduce a subtle herbal undertone to the classic orange jam.

Pairings To Enjoy With Homemade Orange Jam

• Pair with Pastry Perfection: Spread this zesty orange jam on warm, flaky croissants or buttery scones for a breakfast burst of citrusy delight.
• Cheese Board Companion: Complement the jam's sweetness with creamy brie, sharp aged cheddar, or tangy goat cheese for a sophisticated appetizer experience.
• Tea Time Elegance: Serve alongside Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea, letting the jam's bright flavor enhance the subtle tea notes and create a delightful afternoon treat.
• Cocktail Mixer Magic: Transform craft cocktails by using the orange jam as a unique sweetener in gin-based drinks or as a glaze for whiskey sours, adding depth and complexity.

How To Keep Homemade Orange Jam Fresh

• Transfer cooled jam to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. Keep away from direct light and moisture to maintain freshness.
• Freeze jam in freezer-safe glass jars or plastic containers, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Will stay good for 6-12 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• Properly sealed and processed jam can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for 12-18 months. Check seals periodically and discard if any signs of spoilage appear.

FAQs

• Why remove the white pith from orange peels?

The white pith can make the jam taste bitter, so carefully scraping it off ensures a sweeter, more pleasant flavor.

• Can I use less sugar in this recipe?

Reducing sugar might prevent the jam from setting properly, as sugar helps create the right texture and acts as a preservative.

• How long will this homemade orange jam last?

When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, the jam can last up to 12 months unopened. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3-4 weeks.

• Is it necessary to use pectin in this orange jam recipe?

No, oranges naturally contain pectin, which helps the jam thicken, so additional pectin isn’t required for this specific recipe.

Homemade Orange Jam Notes

• Crafting Unique Treats: These cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional baking by using clothespins as molds, creating stunning cylindrical pastries that spark conversation and culinary creativity.
• Master Impressive Baking Skills: The recipe provides an opportunity to learn a sophisticated technique that looks professional and challenging, making bakers feel accomplished and proud of their culinary achievement.
• Perfect for Special Celebrations: Clothespin cookies are ideal for elegant gatherings, dessert tables, holiday parties, and events where guests appreciate intricate, homemade sweet treats that showcase culinary craftsmanship.
• Delicious Texture Adventure: The combination of crisp, delicate cookie shells and creamy, smooth filling creates a delightful textural experience that tantalizes taste buds and provides a sophisticated dessert experience.

Ingredients For Homemade Orange Jam

• Oranges: Fresh citrus fruits that provide the primary flavor and texture for the jam.
• Orange Peels: Thin strips that add depth and slight bitterness to the jam's overall taste.

• Sugar: Essential ingredient that helps thicken the jam and provides natural sweetness.

• Lemon Juice, Water: Supporting ingredients that help balance the jam's acidity and create the right cooking consistency.

Step-By-Step Homemade Orange Jam Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

Grab some fresh, juicy oranges and give them a good wash under cool running water. Peel the oranges carefully, setting aside the peels.

Slice those peels into delicate, thin strips about the width of a pencil line. Take your time to remove as much of the white part (pith) as you can to keep the jam from tasting bitter.

Chop the peeled orange flesh into bite-sized segments, tossing out any pesky seeds.

Step 2: Mix and Combine

• Chopped orange segments
• Thin orange peel strips
• Sugar
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Water

Step 3: Simmer and Cook

Fire up the stove and bring your mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.

Stir like crazy until the sugar completely melts and disappears. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the magic happen.

Keep an occasional eye on the pot, giving it a gentle stir now and then. Let it bubble away for about 45-60 minutes until the mixture transforms into a thick, glossy jam.

Step 4: Check the Consistency

Want to know if your jam is ready? Drop a small dollop onto a chilled plate.

Run your finger through it – if it wrinkles and holds its shape, you’ve hit jam perfection! Pro tip: A candy thermometer works wonders too.

You’re aiming for 220F (104C).

Step 5: Jar the Goodness

Carefully remove the pot from the heat.

Using a steady hand, pour the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars. Leave a small space at the top – about the width of your pinky finger.

Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a perfect seal.

Step 6: Create the Seal

Flip those jars upside down on a clean surface.

Let them cool completely. This nifty trick helps create an airtight seal, keeping your jam fresh and delicious.

Homemade Orange Jam Recipe

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4.6 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet citrus magic comes alive in homemade orange jam, delivering sunshine-soaked flavor straight from your kitchen. Zesty Mediterranean notes dance with sugary undertones, inviting you to savor each spoonful of pure seasonal delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 35 ounces (1 kilogram) oranges
• 26 ounces (740 grams) granulated sugar

Acidic Components:

• 1 lemon (juice)

Liquid:

• 17 fluid ounces (500 milliliters) water

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Instructions

1. Meticulously cleanse oranges under cool running water, ensuring no residue remains. Carefully remove peels, slicing them into delicate, gossamer-thin strips approximately 1/8 inch wide. Gently scrape away excess white pith to prevent unwelcome bitterness. Segment the peeled citrus fruits, discarding any unwanted seeds.
2. Transfer the fragmented orange pieces, gossamer peel strips, granulated sweetener, citrus extract, and liquid into a capacious cooking vessel. Position over medium flame, stirring vigorously until sugar crystals completely dissolve.
3. Reduce thermal intensity to minimal setting. Allow mixture to gently simmer for approximately 45-60 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent scorching. Monitor the transformation as liquid gradually thickens and develops a luscious, glossy texture.
4. Validate jam’s readiness through precision techniques. Deposit a modest dollop onto a pre-chilled ceramic surface. Trace a path with your fingertip – if the substance wrinkles, it signals perfect consistency. Alternatively, utilize a culinary thermometer; optimal temperature registers at 220°F (104°C).
5. Carefully extract the molten preserve from heat source. Methodically transfer into sanitized glass receptacles, maintaining approximately 1/4 inch headspace. Pristinely wipe vessel rims to ensure immaculate sealing.
6. Position sealed containers inversely on pristine surface, allowing complete cooling. This strategic orientation facilitates vacuum sealing, preserving the jam’s exquisite flavor profile.

Notes

• Maximize flavor by choosing ripe, fragrant oranges with vibrant color and minimal blemishes.
• Remove as much white pith as possible to prevent bitter undertones in the final jam.
• Use a candy thermometer for precise consistency and accurate temperature monitoring during cooking.
• Store homemade jam in sterilized glass jars in a cool, dark pantry for optimal preservation and freshness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 228
• Sugar: 55 g
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg