Cranberry Bacon Jam is a sweet, tangy, and savory spread that’s perfect for the holiday season—or any time you want to elevate your meals. The rich, smoky flavor of bacon pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberries and a hint of sweetness, creating a versatile condiment that works on toast, burgers, or even cheese boards.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors is irresistible.
- Versatile Use: Perfect as a spread, topping, or dip for various dishes.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples and fresh cranberries.
- Holiday-Friendly: A great addition to festive meals or edible gift baskets.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bacon
- Fresh cranberries
- Onion (chopped)
- Brown sugar
- Maple syrup
- Apple cider vinegar
- Water
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- Black pepper
Directions
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble into small pieces. Drain most of the bacon fat, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion until softened and translucent.
- Add the cranberries, brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, water, and cinnamon. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 15–20 minutes).
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. For a smoother texture, blend the mixture lightly using an immersion blender.
- Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 1 cup of jam
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Herbal Twist: Stir in fresh rosemary or thyme for added depth.
- Sweeter Option: Increase the brown sugar or use honey instead of maple syrup.
- Citrus Flavor: Add a splash of orange juice or grated orange zest for brightness.
- Vegan Alternative: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a plant-based version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: Serve cold or gently warm it in a skillet or microwave before using.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work just as well. No need to thaw them beforehand.
How can I make this ahead of time?
Cranberry bacon jam stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for preparing in advance.
Can I freeze cranberry bacon jam?
Yes, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
What pairs well with cranberry bacon jam?
Serve it with crackers, bread, cheese boards, burgers, or roasted meats.
How do I adjust the sweetness?
Taste as you go and adjust the brown sugar or maple syrup to your liking.
Can I make this without vinegar?
The vinegar balances the flavors, but you can substitute it with lemon juice if needed.
How long does it last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly, it stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This jam is perfect for gifting, so feel free to make a larger batch.
What type of bacon works best?
Thick-cut, smoked bacon adds the best flavor and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the bacon and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cranberry Bacon Jam is a show-stopping condiment that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, adding it to burgers, or serving it with cheese, this jam delivers a bold combination of flavors. Try it for your next gathering or holiday meal, and watch it become a new favorite!
PrintCranberry Bacon Jam
This sweet, smoky, and tangy Cranberry Bacon Jam is perfect as a spread for sandwiches, a topping for cheese boards, or a glaze for meats. It’s an irresistible blend of flavors that’s perfect for the holiday season and beyond.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 1 ½ cups 1x
- Category: Condiments, Spreads
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (100 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add the cranberries:
- Stir in the cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
- Combine the bacon:
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend (optional):
- For a smoother consistency, pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor or use an immersion blender. Leave some texture for a rustic feel.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to a jar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat slightly before serving.
- This jam pairs wonderfully with cheeses like Brie or sharp cheddar, on burgers, or spread on toast.