Mother-In-Law'S Cranberry Jelly
A bright, tart cranberry jelly bursting with natural sweetness, perfect for holiday spreads, breakfast spreads, or a tangy accompaniment to savory dishes for any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cranberries in a covered saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until most of the cranberries have popped.
- Strain the mixture and mix in the sugar.
- Cool the jelly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jelly, you can blend the cooked cranberries before straining. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 1.5 cups. For added flavor, consider mixing in some orange zest or a splash of lemon juice. This recipe can also be adapted for vegan recipes by using a plant-based gelatin substitute if you desire a firmer texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry jelly is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats like turkey or pork, and it pairs beautifully with Round Sauerbraten. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter for a festive touch, or use it as a spread on toast or sandwiches. It can also be drizzled over desserts to add a tart contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in small portions. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before using.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother-In-Law'S Cranberry Jelly contains roughly 432 calories, with 7g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 15g 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before cooking. The flavor will still be delicious, and it’s a great way to enjoy cranberry jelly year-round.
How do I know when the cranberries are done cooking?
The cranberries are done when they have burst and softened, typically around 10-15 minutes of boiling. You’ll hear them popping, and the mixture should be thickening slightly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can affect the texture.
Can I add spices to the jelly for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves while cooking the cranberries can enhance the flavor profile. Just remember to remove the spices before straining the mixture. This will add a warm, aromatic touch that pairs well with many holiday dishes.
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).