Have you ever wondered how to combine the tartness of cranberries with the spicy kick of jalapenos to create an unforgettable jam? This Cranberry Jalapeno Jam recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy, making it an exciting addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or new to canning, this recipe offers a flavorful, unique twist on traditional fruit jams.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through each step of making Cranberry Jalapeno Jam, providing expert tips and tricks, nutritional information, and even healthier alternatives for those watching their sugar intake. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful jar of goodness!
Ingredients List
To make your very own Cranberry Jalapeno Jam, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen cranberries (fresh cranberries can be substituted if available)
- 3 cups granulated sugar (feel free to use an alternative like coconut sugar for a healthier version)
- ¼ cup finely minced jalapeno peppers (about 2-3 small peppers)
- 2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (for an added zing)
The combination of cranberries’ tartness, jalapenos’ heat, and lime’s citrusy punch creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to surprise and delight. If you prefer a less spicy jam, you can remove the seeds from the jalapenos to reduce the heat level. The balance of flavors will still be stunning, with the spicy notes softened just enough for a pleasant, unique taste.
Timing
This Cranberry Jalapeno Jam recipe is not only delicious but also relatively quick to prepare! The total time required for this jam is about 90 minutes—which is 20% less time than the average homemade jam recipe. Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
The recipe is simple and efficient, allowing you to enjoy your homemade jam with minimal time and effort, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned canners.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine all of the ingredients—cranberries, sugar, finely minced jalapenos, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir until well-combined and allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes to help the cranberries release their natural juices. This extra time will help ensure your jam has a smooth, cohesive consistency later on.
Step 2: Cook the Jam
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Wait until the cranberries begin to burst and the sugar dissolves into the liquid. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once you see the berries begin to burst, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to press them down until they are smooth and the jam has a jam-like texture.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Increase the temperature slightly, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The key to making a perfect jam is to cook it to 220°F (104°C)—use a candy thermometer to keep track of the temperature.
Once the jam reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 4: Transfer to Jars
Carefully transfer the jam to sterilized jars while it’s still warm, sealing the jars immediately. Ensure the jars are sterilized to prevent bacterial growth and maintain freshness. Once sealed, let the jam cool completely at room temperature before storing it in the fridge.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of the health benefits, here’s a detailed look at the nutritional content of one serving (about 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 157 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.003g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Potassium: 27mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 39g
- Vitamin A: 31 IU
- Vitamin C: 6mg
- Calcium: 3mg
- Iron: 0.1mg
The high sugar content may be a concern for some, but the combination of cranberries and lime provides a small dose of Vitamin C and fiber. Plus, the small amount of jalapenos adds a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of this Cranberry Jalapeno Jam, consider these ingredient swaps:
- Sugar Alternatives: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar, honey, or stevia to lower the glycemic index of the jam. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time as natural sweeteners can behave differently during the boiling process.
- Low-Sugar Pectin: Use low-sugar or no-sugar-needed pectin if you want to reduce the sugar content even further.
- Increase Fiber: Add chia seeds or flax seeds for an extra fiber boost. These additions will also give your jam a unique texture and nutritional profile.
- Lime Zest Alternatives: Experiment with zest from oranges or lemons to create different citrus notes in your jam.
By swapping in these ingredients, you can maintain the vibrant flavors of the original recipe while making it more adaptable for specific dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Cranberry Jalapeno Jam is prepared, the real fun begins! Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:
- Spread on Toast: This jam pairs wonderfully with warm, toasted sourdough bread or buttery croissants for a sweet-and-spicy breakfast or snack.
- Pair with Cheese: For an appetizer, serve the jam alongside cream cheese or brie with crackers. The creamy, mild cheese complements the heat and sweetness of the jam.
- Glaze for Meats: Brush this jam onto roasted poultry or pork for a unique glaze that adds a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Top Off Desserts: Drizzle this jam over cheesecake, pound cake, or ice cream for a surprising and delicious twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As with any recipe, there are a few potential pitfalls that can arise during the making of your Cranberry Jalapeno Jam. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them:
- Not Sterilizing the Jars: Always ensure that your jars are properly sterilized before use. Failing to do so can result in bacterial growth and spoilage of your jam.
- Overcooking the Jam: Cooking your jam beyond 220°F can cause it to become too thick or even caramelize. Be vigilant with your candy thermometer to avoid this mistake.
- Under-mashing the Cranberries: The texture of your jam depends on the consistency of the cranberries. Make sure you mash them thoroughly for the best results.
- Not Using a Candy Thermometer: While you can eyeball the consistency of the jam, a candy thermometer ensures that you reach the precise temperature for the perfect set.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Once your Cranberry Jalapeno Jam is made, proper storage is essential for maintaining its freshness. Here are some storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Once cooled, store the jam in airtight jars in the fridge. This will keep your jam fresh for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezing: If you want to store your jam long-term, it’s safe to freeze it in freezer-safe jars for up to 6 months. Just allow it to cool fully before freezing.
- Prep Ahead: You can also prep the ingredients ahead of time by measuring out the cranberries, sugar, and jalapenos and storing them in the fridge for a few days. Just combine and cook when ready!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Cranberry Jalapeno Jam recipe brings together bold flavors that will leave your tastebuds tingling. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a jar of this sweet, spicy, and tart jam to enjoy all year long. Whether you’re serving it with toast, cheese, or as a glaze for meats, this jam is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ready to make your own batch? Try this recipe today and share your feedback in the comments below. We’d love to hear how it turned out, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and tips!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries instead of frozen. Just be sure to wash and sort them properly before use.
2. How long does this jam last?
This jam can last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. If stored in the freezer, it can last up to 6 months.
3. Can I reduce the sugar content?
Absolutely! You can swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar, honey, or stevia to lower the sugar content.
4. How can I make the jam less spicy?
To make the jam less spicy, simply remove the seeds from the jalapenos before chopping them. You can also reduce the amount of jalapeno used.
5. Can I use this recipe for other fruits?
While this recipe is designed for cranberries, you can experiment with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or apples for a unique twist!
Cranberry Jalapeno Jam Recipe: A Sweet and Spicy Twist for Your Tastebuds
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: about 3 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant homemade jam that blends tart cranberries, spicy jalapenos, and zesty lime for a sweet, sour, and spicy flavor combination perfect for toast, cheese boards, glazes, or desserts.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen cranberries (or fresh)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup finely minced jalapeno peppers (2–3 small peppers)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, jalapenos, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir and let sit 5–10 minutes.
- Place over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until cranberries burst and sugar dissolves (about 5–7 minutes). Mash berries for a smoother texture.
- Increase heat slightly and bring to a gentle boil. Cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until jam reaches 220°F (104°C).
- Remove from heat and cool slightly. Transfer to sterilized jars, seal, and cool completely before refrigerating.
Notes
For less heat, remove seeds from jalapenos. To reduce sugar, swap for coconut sugar, honey, or low-sugar pectin. Add chia seeds for extra fiber and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 157
- Sugar: 39g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.003g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.03g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
