Cranberry Preserves
A tangy and sweet cranberry preserves infused with crunchy English walnuts, perfect for spreading on toast or serving alongside cheese and meats during festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the cranberries, sugar, and water to a boil and simmer until foam clears, about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Cool the mixture for 1 hour.
- Add the chopped English walnuts to the cooled preserves.
- Pour the preserves into jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture before adding walnuts. If you prefer a less sweet preserve, reduce the sugar to 4 cups. When choosing walnuts, opt for fresh ones for the best flavor. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the taste. This recipe is versatile; consider making a vegan version by using coconut sugar instead of white sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry preserves as a delightful spread on toast or scones. They also pair wonderfully with cheese boards, particularly sharp cheeses. For an extra treat, drizzle them over pancakes or waffles. This dish can complement festive meals, making it a great addition alongside dishes like Cindy'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cranberry preserves in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For long-term storage, consider canning the preserves using sterilized jars. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the texture. Do not microwave, as it can alter the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Preserves contains roughly 903 calories, with 17g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 19g 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, frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking. The cooking time may need slight adjustments as frozen cranberries release more moisture, but the end result will still be delicious.
How do I know when the preserves are done cooking?
The preserves are ready when the foam clears and the mixture thickens. A simple test is to place a small spoonful on a cold plate; if it holds its shape after cooling, it’s done. Keep stirring to prevent burning during cooking.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would make a great substitute for walnuts in this recipe. Each will impart a unique flavor, enhancing the preserves. Just make sure to chop the nuts finely before adding them to the mixture.
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).