Autumn's arrival brings a wave of cozy vibes and delicious seasonal ingredients. And what better way to capture the essence of fall than with a homemade jar of vibrant apple cranberry preserve? This recipe is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks, and the result is a taste of sunshine bottled up for those chilly winter days. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant homemade treat, perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or even enjoying straight from the spoon!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Canning jars and lids (if canning for long-term storage)
- Jar lifter (if canning)
- Water bath canner (if canning)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Wash and thoroughly dry your apples and cranberries. Peel, core, and chop the apples into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. If using frozen cranberries, ensure they are thawed completely before proceeding.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your large pot, combine the chopped apples, cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Simmer the Preserve
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. You'll know it's ready when a small amount dropped onto a chilled plate sets quickly.
Step 4: Canning (Optional)
If you're planning to can your apple cranberry preserve for longer storage, sterilize your jars and lids in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. Carefully remove the jars and lids with a jar lifter and fill them with the hot preserve, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids and rings on tightly, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Allow the jars to cool completely before checking the seals.
Step 5: Enjoy!
If not canning, let the preserve cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers and storing it in the refrigerator. This homemade treat will last for about 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. Enjoy spreading it on your favorite baked goods or savoring a spoonful straight from the jar!
Tips for Success:
- For a smoother preserve, you can blend a portion of the cooked mixture before canning or storing.
- Adjust the sugar to your liking depending on the sweetness of your apples and cranberries.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with different spices – a dash of allspice or ginger can add interesting notes.
Variations:
- Spiced Apple Cranberry Preserve: Add a cinnamon stick and a few cloves during simmering for a more intense spiced flavor.
- Orange Apple Cranberry Preserve: Add the zest and juice of one orange along with the lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary based on the amount of preserve you consume. This recipe is naturally high in fiber and antioxidants from the apples and cranberries. The nutritional content will also depend on the type and amount of sugar used. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutritional calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities used.
This delicious apple cranberry preserve is a fantastic addition to your autumn baking and breakfast spreads. Its vibrant color and delightful taste will surely brighten your day and make a memorable homemade gift. Enjoy!