Homemade Orange Jam
Introduction
Homemade Orange Jam is a classic fruit preserve made with fresh oranges, sugar, and a touch of lemon for balance. Unlike commercial jams, this version has real citrus aroma, natural bitterness (optional), and a glossy, spreadable texture. You can customize it—smooth or chunky, mildly sweet or bold and tangy. Perfect on toast, in cakes, thumbprint cookies, or even as a glaze.
Ingredients
Oranges – 1 kg (about 6–7 medium)
Sugar – 750 g to 1 kg (adjust to taste)
Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Water – 1 cup
Optional (for flavor & texture):
Orange zest – 1 tbsp (very fine)
Cinnamon stick – 1 small (remove later)
Instructions
Prepare the Oranges
Wash oranges thoroughly.
Peel the oranges.
Remove white pith for less bitterness
Keep a little for traditional marmalade taste
Chop the orange flesh finely; remove seeds.
Finely slice or mince the peel (optional but traditional).
First Boil (Softening)
Add chopped oranges, peel, and water to a heavy pot.
Bring to a boil, then simmer 20–25 minutes until soft.
Add Sugar & Cook
Add sugar and lemon juice.
Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
Cook on medium heat, stirring often, for 35–45 minutes.
Jam will thicken and turn glossy.
Test for Doneness
Plate Test:
Drop a little jam on a cold plate. Let it cool 10 seconds.
Push with your finger—if it wrinkles, it’s ready.
If runny, cook 5 more minutes and test again.
Cool & Store
Remove from heat. Discard cinnamon stick (if used).
Let cool slightly—it thickens more as it cools.
Transfer to sterilized jars.
Timing Summary
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 55–70 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: ~1½ hours
Tips for Perfect Orange Jam
Use sweet oranges (Valencia or kinnow work well).
Stir often near the end to prevent burning.
Jam thickens more after cooling—don’t overcook.
For smoother jam, blend lightly before final boiling.
Variations
Orange Marmalade: Keep more peel.
Spiced Orange Jam: Add cloves or star anise.
Low Sugar: Reduce sugar to 500 g (shorter shelf life).
Storage
Refrigerated: 3–4 weeks
Properly sealed jars: up to 6 months
Freeze: up to 1 year
Final Thoughts
Homemade Orange Jam is sunshine in a jar—fresh, fragrant, and deeply satisfying. Once you try this, store-bought just won’t hit the same