Orange Marmalade

Name: Orange Marmalade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.0 to 2.3 pounds oranges (about 4 medium); 1 lemon (zest and juice of); 1/3 cup water; 4 cups granulated sugar

Published: January 25, 2026

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this marmalade in under an hour.
Flavor-packed: The combination of oranges and lemon creates a vibrant flavor that enhances any dish.
Versatile use: Perfect on toast, as a glaze for meats, or added to desserts and snacks.
No special equipment needed: You only need basic kitchen tools to create this delicious spread.
Make-ahead option: Store it in the refrigerator or freeze for later use!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Orange Marmalade, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Large saucepan
Measuring cups
Spoon for stirring
Jars or containers with lids

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: This tool makes quick work of chopping the oranges finely, ensuring even texture in your marmalade.
Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows for proper boiling and simmering without spilling over.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors in your Orange Marmalade.

Ingredients

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is made with just four ingredients, no special equipment, and is absolutely delicious! Enjoy it slathered on toast, beef chops, chicken, or stirred into yogurt or overnight oats!

For the Marmalade

2.0 to 2.3 pounds oranges (about 4 medium)
1 lemon (zest and juice of)
1/3 cup water
4 cups granulated sugar

How to Make Orange Marmalade

Making Orange Marmalade is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch.

Step 1: Prep Fruit

Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly, scrubbing the peels to remove any dirt.

Step 2: Chop

Cut off the ends of the oranges. Cut each orange in half, then slice each half into four pieces. Discard any seeds.

Step 3: Puree

Place the orange pieces in a food processor. Pulse until the rind is finely chopped. Place a plate in the freezer to help test for doneness later.

Step 4: Combine in Saucepan

Add the chopped oranges to a large saucepan over medium heat. Zest the lemon into the pot, then squeeze in its juice. Add water and sugar; stir well.

Step 5: Cook

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low boil and simmer while stirring often for about 30-35 minutes until thickened. It should slide off a spoon in sheets rather than droplets. To test doneness, pour some onto a cold plate; if it runs easily, continue cooking.

Step 6: Pour Into Jars

Once ready, pour the marmalade into jars or containers with lids. Allow it to cool at room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.

Enjoy your homemade Orange Marmalade!

How to Serve Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that can enhance many dishes beyond just toast. Its sweet and tangy flavor adds brightness to both savory and sweet meals, making it a delightful addition to your kitchen.

On Toast

Spread orange marmalade generously on buttered toast for a classic breakfast treat. The combination of creamy butter and zesty marmalade creates a delightful start to your day.

With Chicken

Brush orange marmalade over grilled or baked chicken for a sweet glaze. It caramelizes beautifully, adding flavor and moisture to the meat.

As a Glaze for Beef Chops

Use orange marmalade as a glaze for beef chops. It provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the beef, making each bite irresistible.

Stirred into Yogurt

Add a spoonful of orange marmalade to plain yogurt for a refreshing snack or breakfast. The sweetness balances the tartness of the yogurt perfectly.

In Overnight Oats

Mix orange marmalade into your overnight oats for added sweetness and flavor. It pairs well with nuts and fruits, giving you a nutritious start to your morning.

With Cheese

Serve orange marmalade alongside cheese platters. Its sweetness complements sharp cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese, creating an exciting flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Orange Marmalade

To create the best orange marmalade, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips that can help elevate your homemade preserve.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh oranges yield more juice and better flavor, making your marmalade tastier.
Adjust sugar levels: Depending on your taste preference, you can adjust the sugar amount slightly while still achieving great results.
Test for doneness: Always use the cold plate method to check if your marmalade has reached the right consistency before removing it from heat.
Store properly: Use clean jars and lids when storing your marmalade to ensure it stays fresh longer.
Experiment with flavors: Try adding spices like ginger or cinnamon for a unique twist on traditional orange marmalade.
Cool completely before sealing: Allow your marmalade to cool at room temperature before sealing it in jars to prevent condensation inside.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and tangy profile. Here are some great options:

Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. The caramelized edges enhance their natural sweetness alongside the marmalade.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes an excellent base for serving alongside glazed meats featuring orange marmalade.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a hint of citrus elevate any meal, especially when served with orange-glazed proteins.
Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw with shredded carrots and cabbage drizzled with an orange vinaigrette complements rich main dishes beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil highlights the bright flavors of orange marmalade when served together.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with citrus dressing offers a nutritious accompaniment that harmonizes well with any meal featuring orange flavors.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins serve as an excellent vessel for spreading orange marmalade at brunch or dinner.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream provide a neutral canvas that pairs wonderfully with tangy citrus notes from the marmalade.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Orange Marmalade can be easy, but some common errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are mistakes to avoid when making this delightful spread.

Bold preparation: Not washing the fruit properly can lead to bitterness from leftover wax or pesticides. Always scrub your oranges and lemon thoroughly before use.
Bold cutting technique: Failing to remove seeds during the chopping process can result in an unpleasant texture. Make sure to cut and inspect each piece of fruit carefully.
Bold cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the marmalade can affect its consistency. Monitor it closely, and use the cold plate test to check for doneness.
Bold storage method: Using improper containers for storing marmalade may cause spoilage. Use clean, airtight jars or containers for best results.
Bold ingredient ratio: Altering the sugar-to-fruit ratio can lead to a lack of sweetness or improper gelling. Stick to the specified amounts for optimal flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in airtight jars or containers.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Orange Marmalade

Use freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving space for expansion.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Marmalade

Oven: Preheat to low heat, place in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Orange Marmalade.

What is Orange Marmalade?

Orange Marmalade is a sweet preserve made from oranges, sugar, and lemon juice. It has a unique tangy flavor that pairs well with various dishes.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! You can substitute oranges with lemons, limes, or grapefruits for different flavors in your marmalade.

How do I know when my Orange Marmalade is done?

The marmalade is ready when it thickens and slides off a spoon in sheets rather than droplets. A cold plate test will help you determine its consistency.

What dishes pair well with Orange Marmalade?

Orange Marmalade works great as a topping on toast, pancakes, or yogurt. It also adds flavor to chicken and beef dishes.

Can I make Orange Marmalade without pectin?

Yes! This recipe does not require additional pectin since the natural pectin in citrus helps with gelling.

Final Thoughts

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness to their meals. Its versatile nature means you can enjoy it on toast, mixed into yogurt, or even as a glaze for meats. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick!

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