Banana Cranberry Jam
This vibrant banana cranberry jam offers a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, perfect for spreading on toast or serving with cheese. Its rich flavor combination suits breakfast tables or snack times, appealing to those who enjoy homemade preserves with a fruity twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer cranberries and water for 10 minutes.
- Add mashed bananas and sugar; bring to a boil and boil hard for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat. Add pectin, stir, and skim.
- Put the jam into sterile jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jam, consider blending the cranberries before cooking. If you prefer less sugar, you can reduce it to 5 cups and adjust the sweetness with a bit of lemon juice. Make sure to use ripe bananas for better flavor and sweetness. If pectin is unavailable, you can try using a natural thickener like chia seeds, though this may alter the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This jam pairs beautifully with toast, scones, or pancakes for breakfast. It can also be used as a filling for pastries or as a topping on yogurt and oatmeal. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or with crackers for a delightful snack. For a creative twist, use it as a glaze for roasted meats or a drizzle over desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store the banana cranberry jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year if sealed properly in sterilized jars. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Cranberry Jam contains roughly 374 calories, with 2g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just allow them to thaw and drain excess moisture before using them in the jam. The flavor will still be delightful, and this is a great way to enjoy cranberries out of season.
How do I know when the jam has set properly?
To check if the jam has set, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape and doesn't run back together, it's ready. If not, you may need to boil it a bit longer.
What can I do if my jam is too runny?
If your jam turns out runny, you can simmer it again to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a bit more pectin according to package instructions to help thicken it up, ensuring you mix it well and reboil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).