Sunny Orange Marmalade

Prep: 480 min Cook: 105 min Cuisine: American

Bright and tangy orange marmalade with citrus zest, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting. Rich flavors that suit breakfast lovers and jam enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

  • 12 oranges (about six pounds)
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 lemons
  • 9 cups sugar

Instructions

  1. Peel oranges and cut rind into thin strips.
  2. Chop pulp, discarding seeds.
  3. Cut lemons into thin slices discarding seeds.
  4. Combine orange rind, chopped pulp, lemon slices, and 4 cups water in a large Dutch oven.
  5. Bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat, cover, and chill for 8 hours or overnight.
  8. Combine fruit mixture and sugar and bring to a boil.
  9. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally for 1 1/2 hours or until a candy thermometer registers 215 degrees.
  10. Pack hot marmalade into hot sterilized jars, filling to 1/2 inch from the top.
  11. Remove air bubbles.
  12. Wipe jar rims.
  13. Cover jars at once with rings and lids.
  14. Process in boiling water for five minutes if desired.

Tips & Substitutions

To ensure a bright flavor, choose fresh, ripe oranges and lemons. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh oranges, though the texture will differ. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of ginger or using half grapefruit for a unique taste. Keep an eye on the simmering time, as overcooking can alter the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Sunny Orange Marmalade is delightful spread on toast or scones for breakfast. It also pairs wonderfully with cream cheese on bagels or as a glaze for ribs, adding a sweet citrus kick. For a refreshing drink, mix a spoonful into sparkling water for a homemade soda that complements any brunch or tea party.

Storage & Reheating

Store the sealed jars of marmalade in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the marmalade in the refrigerator where it will last for up to three weeks. To reheat, simply spoon out the desired amount and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sunny Orange Marmalade contains roughly 423 calories, with 8g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (224% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

423 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.8g 16% DV
Total Fat 1.2g 2% DV
Carbs 104.4g 38% DV
Fiber 11g 39% DV
Sugar 39.7g 79% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 45.1mg 2% DV
Potassium 1425.9mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 23.4mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 201.4mg 100% DV
Calcium 158.3mg 12% DV
Iron 5.7mg 32% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

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 other citrus fruits in this marmalade?

Absolutely! You can substitute a portion of the oranges with lemons, limes, or even grapefruits for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness may need adjustment depending on the tartness of the fruit you choose.

How do I know when the marmalade is ready to jar?

The marmalade is ready when it reaches a temperature of 215 degrees on a candy thermometer. Alternatively, you can perform a plate test: drop a spoonful on a cold plate, let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready to jar.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan since it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any sugar used is vegan-certified, as some sugars are processed with bone char. Enjoy this delicious marmalade on your favorite vegan breakfast items!

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).

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