Orange Jam Recipe

Introduction

Capture the cozy essence of the season with this easy 3-ingredient winter orange jam, made without pectin. It’s a simple, naturally sweet spread perfect for toast, scones, or as a glaze for roasted meats. This recipe celebrates the bright, vibrant flavor of citrus, transforming it into a versatile preserve that’s as delightful in a Mediterranean Bean Salad Recipe as it is on your morning biscuit.

Ingredients

This simple 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin recipe transforms fresh oranges and warm spices into a vibrant, spreadable preserve with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavor.

• 3 lbs oranges (peeled, roughly 5 cups puree)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1-2 each cinnamon sticks (star anise & cloves, (optional))

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, as it skips the pectin preparation and uses a simple simmering method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Oranges

Thoroughly wash 4–5 large navel oranges (about 2 lbs / 1 kg). Using a sharp knife, slice off the very top and bottom of each fruit. Cut the oranges into quarters, then slice each quarter crosswise into thin, uniform pieces, about ¼-inch thick. Be sure to remove any large seeds you encounter as you cut.

Tip: Leaving the peel on is essential for natural pectin and flavor. Organic oranges are ideal since you’ll be consuming the peel.

Step 2 — Combine Ingredients

Place all the sliced oranges into a heavy-bottomed, non-reactive pot like stainless steel or enameled cast iron. Add 2 cups (400g) of granulated sugar and 2 whole cinnamon sticks (or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon). Gently stir to coat the fruit in the sugar.

Tip: Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to an hour. This maceration draws out the orange juices, creating a syrup that helps prevent burning when you start to cook.

Step 3 — Begin the Simmer

Place the pot over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a lively simmer, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle, steady simmer. You should see small bubbles breaking the surface consistently.

Tip: A heavy pot distributes heat evenly and minimizes the risk of scorching the jam on the bottom.

Step 4 — Cook Until Thickened

Continue simmering for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 5–10 minutes. The oranges will soften completely, and the liquid will reduce and thicken significantly. The peel will become translucent.

Doneness Cue: Drag your spoon across the bottom of the pot. The jam should be thick enough that the path holds for a second before filling in. It will thicken more as it cools.

Step 5 — Test the Set

To check if your 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin is ready, perform a plate test. Place a small saucer in the freezer for 5 minutes. Drop a teaspoon of hot jam onto the cold plate. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then push the edge with your finger. If it wrinkles, the jam is set. If it runs, cook for another 5–10 minutes and test again.

Step 6 — Jar and Store

Once set, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully fish out the cinnamon sticks. Let the jam cool in the pot for about 15 minutes; it will continue to thicken. Spoon the warm jam into clean, dry jars.

Storage: Seal the jars and let them cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating. This jam will keep for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, process in a water bath canner or freeze.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~45 kcal
Protein	0.2 g
Carbohydrates	11 g
Fat	0.1 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sodium	<1 mg

Note: Estimates are per tablespoon for this 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Values can vary with specific fruit and sugar used.

Healthier Alternatives

This easy 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs while keeping its cozy, spiced character.

• Lower-Sugar Alternative — Replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of allulose or a monk fruit sweetener blend for a lower-carb, diabetic-friendly version. The flavor remains clean and sweet.
• Vegan & Unrefined Sugar — Use organic, unrefined cane sugar or coconut sugar. Coconut sugar will add a deeper, almost caramel-like note that pairs beautifully with the winter spices.
• Citrus Variations — For a lower-acid or unique twist, substitute up to half of the oranges with tangerines, clementines, or blood oranges. Blood oranges will give the jam a stunning ruby hue and a berry-like undertone.
• Spice Adjustments — Omit the pre-mixed spice and create your own blend with just cinnamon and a pinch of cloves for more control, or add a fresh vanilla bean pod while simmering for a fragrant, low-sodium flavor boost.
• Added Protein Boost — Stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds after cooking and let the jam cool. They will thicken the jam further and add a nutrient-dense, gluten-free protein and fiber element.
• Dairy-Free Enrichment — For a creamier texture if using the jam as a topping, fold in a dollop of coconut cream after the jam has completely cooled.
• Intense Citrus Zest — For a brighter, more potent orange flavor with no added sugar, increase the amount of fresh orange zest. This enhances the natural fruit essence without altering the macro profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread it generously on warm, buttered scones or toasted brioche for a cozy winter breakfast.
• Use it as a sophisticated glaze for roasted meats like ham or duck, adding a sweet and spiced crust.
• Stir a spoonful into plain yogurt or oatmeal to instantly elevate your morning routine.
• Pair it with a sharp, aged cheddar or creamy brie on a cheese board for a perfect sweet-savory contrast.
• Fill thumbprint cookies or sandwich between shortbread for an elegant homemade gift.
• Dollop it over vanilla ice cream or panna cotta for a simple yet impressive dessert.

This versatile 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin shines brightest when its deep citrus and spice flavors are the star. For plating, serve in a small jar or ramekin alongside your chosen pairing to let its vibrant color and aromatic scent entice your guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Not removing the white pith thoroughly, which makes the jam bitter. Fix: Use a sharp knife to peel the oranges, leaving behind as much pith as possible.
• Mistake: Using too much water at the start, leading to a long, watery simmer. Fix: Start with just enough water to barely cover the fruit to concentrate flavor faster.
• Mistake: Stirring infrequently, causing the jam to scorch on the bottom. Fix: Stir every few minutes, especially as the mixture thickens and bubbles become slower.
• Mistake: Adding spices too early, causing their flavor to become muted. Fix: Add whole spices like cinnamon sticks or cloves in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
• Mistake: Underestimating the natural pectin in orange seeds and membranes. Fix: Tie the seeds and extra membrane in cheesecloth and simmer it with the jam to boost set.
• Mistake: Skipping the plate test, resulting in a runny or overly firm set. Fix: Chill a spoonful on a cold plate; it should wrinkle when pushed, not run.
• Mistake: Jarring the jam while it’s too hot, risking cracked jars and safety issues. Fix: Let the jam cool for 10-15 minutes off the heat before ladling into warm, sterilized jars.
• Mistake: Storing the jam with a loose seal, leading to premature spoilage. Fix: Ensure lids are fingertip-tight and listen for the “pop” as they cool, indicating a proper seal.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the jam completely, then transfer it to a clean, airtight jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to serve to prevent spoilage.
• Freezer: For longer storage, portion the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
• Reheat: If the jam thickens too much, gently reheat a portion in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety if reheating the entire batch to store again.

Proper storage is key to enjoying your homemade 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin at its best. The natural sugars and acidity help preserve it, but keeping it chilled or frozen maintains its vibrant spiced flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin is a simple, flavorful way to preserve the season’s citrus. It’s perfect for toast, yogurt, or gifting. If you love orange flavors, try our Mandarin Orange Jello Salad Recipe. We hope you enjoy making this jam—please leave a comment with your results!

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FAQs

How does this jam set without using pectin?

The natural pectin in the orange peels, combined with the long simmering time, is what allows this 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin to thicken properly. The sugar and acid from the fruit also help create the perfect gel-like consistency.

Can I use different citrus fruits for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with other citrus like clementines or tangerines, but the flavor and set time will vary. The recipe for 3 Ingredient Winter Spiced Orange Jam No Pectin is specifically calibrated for the pectin content and flavor of navel or Valencia oranges.

How long does this homemade jam last?

When stored in a clean, airtight jar in the refrigerator, this jam will keep well for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, you can process the jars in a water bath for proper canning.