Easy Canned Cranberry Jelly: A Twist to Your Holiday Table

Name: Easy Canned Cranberry Jelly: A Twist to Your Holiday Table
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Worldwide
Ingredients: 1 can cranberry jelly (14 oz); 2 tbsp orange juice (optional, for tang); 1 tbsp grated orange zest; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg

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Canned Cranberry Jelly

If there’s one thing that brings me joy during the holidays, it’s those dishes that evoke warm memories and heartfelt connections. You know the ones – simple, classic, and so good that they keep showing up on the table year after year. While exploring new and exciting recipes, like this flavorful Campechana seafood cocktail, I often find myself craving a balance of tradition and innovation.

That’s where canned cranberry jelly comes in. It’s the unsung hero of holiday meals—always there, quietly adding a pop of color and a burst of tangy sweetness. But why settle for serving it straight out of the can when you can transform it into something truly spectacular? With just a few extra ingredients and a touch of creativity, this humble pantry staple can shine like never before.

Table of Contents

Why People Love Canned Cranberry Jelly

Canned cranberry jelly is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making it a must-have on any holiday table. Its versatility means you can use it as a standalone side dish, a glaze for roasted meats, or even a base for a tangy cranberry sauce with canned cranberry jelly.

Canned Cranberry Jelly Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Method: Refrigerating
Cuisine: Worldwide

Ingredients

1 can cranberry jelly (14 oz)
2 tbsp orange juice (optional, for tang)
1 tbsp grated orange zest

1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg

Tools You’ll Need

Medium saucepan

Whisk or spatula
Serving dish or mold
Grater (for zesting)

Instructions

Prepare the Base: Open the can cranberry jelly and transfer it to a medium saucepan. Break it up gently using a whisk or spatula.
Add Flavor: Stir in orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat on medium-low until the jelly becomes smooth and glossy.
Set the Shape: If you prefer the jelly in a mold, pour the mixture into a festive mold and refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm. Otherwise, transfer it to a serving dish.

Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with a sprig of mint or a few cranberries for a festive touch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 120

Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0.1g

Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0.2g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Pairings and Presentation

Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, baked ham, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Presentation: For a fancy touch, serve the jelly on a bed of fresh greens with a sprinkling of candied pecans.

Notes

If you prefer a smoother jelly, strain the mixture through a fine mesh before setting it in a mold.
For an extra citrus kick, swap orange zest for lemon zest.

There you have it – a simple, delicious way to elevate canned cranberry jelly into a showstopper dish! Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to impress. For more fun and flavorful recipes, visit So Damn Delish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry jelly?

A: Yes, but it will require additional cooking to achieve the smooth consistency of canned cranberry jelly.

Q: How do I store leftover cranberry jelly?

A: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Q: Can I freeze canned cranberry jelly?

A: Yes, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.