Description
Discover the tantalizing blend of tart fresh cranberries and sweet maple syrup with this Maple Cranberry Spread recipe. This homemade spread is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes such as toast, pancakes, or even as a unique filling for pastries. The natural pectin in cranberries ensures a delightfully thick and spreadable consistency, making this a wholesome alternative to store-bought spreads.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces fresh cranberries (two 12-ounce bags)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup or substitute with brown sugar
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Cranberries
Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and transfer them into a large heavy saucepan or a Dutch oven.
2. Add Sweetness
Stir in the maple syrup with the cranberries, blending them well to ensure even cooking.
3. Cook the Mixture
Bring the cranberries and syrup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat slightly. Continue boiling for 5 to 10 minutes until the cranberries pop and the mixture begins to thicken due to the release of natural pectin.
4. Cool and Process
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a high-speed blender or a food processor. Process until the mixture becomes smooth and silky.
5. Achieve Desired Thickness
If the spread is too loose, return it to a clean saucepan and simmer until it reaches the desired thickness. Remember, the spread will thicken further as it cools.
6. Storage
Transfer the finished spread into clean jars. Let them cool before capping and refrigerating. For extended shelf life, proceed to can the spread as detailed below.
Servings & Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of spread
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Keep the cranberry spread refrigerated for up to 3 weeks to a month.
- Canning: For longer preservation, can the hot spread into sterilized jars and process in a boiling water bath, ensuring proper sealing.
Conclusion
This Maple Cranberry Spread is a delightful fusion of flavors suitable for many culinary applications. It’s easy to make and offers a healthier, preservative-free alternative to commercial spreads. Whether spread on warm toast at breakfast or swirled into oatmeal, this homemade creation brings a touch of fall’s flavors to your table year-round. Enjoy crafting this luscious spread that is sure to impress family and friends alike.
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Maple Cranberry Spread
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of spread 1x
Description
Discover the tantalizing blend of tart fresh cranberries and sweet maple syrup with this Maple Cranberry Spread recipe. This homemade spread is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes such as toast, pancakes, or even as a unique filling for pastries. The natural pectin in cranberries ensures a delightfully thick and spreadable consistency, making this a wholesome alternative to store-bought spreads.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces fresh cranberries (two 12-ounce bags)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup or substitute with brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and transfer them into a large heavy saucepan or a Dutch oven.
- Add Sweetness: Stir in the maple syrup with the cranberries, blending them well to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Mixture: Bring the cranberries and syrup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat slightly. Continue boiling for 5 to 10 minutes until the cranberries pop and the mixture begins to thicken due to the release of natural pectin.
- Cool and Process: Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a high-speed blender or a food processor. Process until the mixture becomes smooth and silky.
- Achieve Desired Thickness: If the spread is too loose, return it to a clean saucepan and simmer until it reaches the desired thickness. Remember, the spread will thicken further as it cools.
- Storage: Transfer the finished spread into clean jars. Let them cool before capping and refrigerating. For extended shelf life, proceed to can the spread as detailed below.
- Prep Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes