Cranberry jelly is a holiday classic that adds the perfect balance of sweet and tart to any meal.
Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey at Thanksgiving or spreading it on toast the next morning, this homemade Cranberry Jelly is so much better than the canned version.
It’s smooth, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe became a favorite in our home because it’s quick to prepare, tastes fresher than store‑bought, and can be made ahead of time.
With its jewel‑like color and perfect consistency, it always impresses guests at holiday dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cranberry Jelly is smooth, vibrant, and full of flavor. It’s made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and water—plus optional orange zest for extra brightness. It’s naturally gluten‑free, easy to make, and tastes far better than canned jelly.
It’s also versatile—serve it with turkey, ham, or roasted chicken, or use it as a spread for biscuits and toast. You can even use it in desserts, such as thumbprint cookies or cheesecake topping.
What You’ll Need
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen works just as well.
- Don’t skip straining if you want a perfectly smooth jelly.
- Add orange zest for a citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
- Chill completely to let the jelly firm up before serving.
- Make it ahead—it tastes even better the next day.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof bowl or jar for storing
Substitutions and Variations
- Sweetener swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different flavor.
- Spiced version: Add a cinnamon stick or star anise while simmering.
- Citrus twist: Replace water with orange juice for a sweeter, more vibrant jelly.
- Less sugar: Reduce sugar slightly for a tangier taste.
Make‑Ahead Tips
- Make cranberry jelly up to 5 days ahead and store in the fridge.
- It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before serving.
How to Make Cranberry Jelly
1. Cook the Cranberries
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Simmer and Pop
Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
3. Add Flavor and Strain
Remove from heat, stir in orange zest (if using), and carefully press the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl, discarding skins.
4. Chill and Set
Pour the strained liquid into a jar or dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
5. Serve
Slice or scoop the jelly and serve alongside your holiday dishes or as a spread.
Leftovers and Storage
Store cranberry jelly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition & Benefits
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, while homemade jelly has fewer preservatives than store‑bought versions.
You can also adjust the sweetness to your taste, making it a fresher and healthier option.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes. Frozen cranberries work just as well and can be used straight from the freezer. They may take an extra minute or two to soften.
2. How do I make the jelly smoother?
For a perfectly smooth texture, strain the cooked cranberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth while it’s still warm.
3. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar for a tangier jelly, but don’t cut it too much or it may not set properly.
4. How far in advance can I make it?
You can prepare cranberry jelly up to 5 days ahead. The flavor actually deepens after a day in the fridge.
5. Can cranberry jelly be frozen?
Yes. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Sweet, Tart, and Perfectly Festive
This Cranberry Jelly is a simple yet impressive addition to any holiday table.
With its vibrant color, smooth texture, and balanced flavor, it’s a must‑make for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or anytime you want a fresh, homemade condiment.