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: February 21, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: With only four ingredients and no special equipment needed, you can whip up this marmalade in no time.
Versatile Uses: Perfect as a spread, glaze, or even stirred into yogurt for a refreshing treat.
Fresh Flavor: The natural sweetness of oranges combined with lemon zest creates a deliciously bright taste.
Preservation Friendly: This recipe allows you to store your marmalade in jars for up to 2 weeks in the fridge or freeze it for later use.
Great Gift Idea: Homemade marmalade makes for a thoughtful gift that showcases your culinary skills.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Orange Marmalade, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Large saucepan
Measuring cups
Jars or containers with lids
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: This tool simplifies the task of chopping the oranges into fine pieces, ensuring even texture in your marmalade.
Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows for ample cooking volume, reducing the risk of boiling over while simmering.

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

Step 1: Prep Fruit

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

Step 2: Chop

Cut off the ends of the oranges. Slice each orange in half and then cut each half into four pieces. Discard any seeds as you go along.

Step 3: Puree

Place the orange pieces in a food processor. Pulse until the rind is chopped into very small pieces. While doing this, place a plate in the freezer; you’ll need it later to test for doneness.

Step 4: Combine in Saucepan

Transfer the chopped oranges to a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the zest of one lemon along with its juice. Pour in 1/3 cup of water and add 4 cups of granulated sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Cook

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to maintain a low boil and simmer it while stirring often for about 30-35 minutes until thickened. The marmalade should slide off a spoon in sheets rather than droplets. To check if it’s ready, pour a spoonful onto your cold plate; it should form a soft gel consistency that moves slightly without running easily across the plate.

Step 6: Pour into Jars

Once thickened properly, pour the marmalade into clean jars or containers with lids. Allow them to cool at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freezing them for up to three months.

How to Serve Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that can enhance many dishes. Whether you are enjoying it on breakfast items or using it as a glaze for savory meals, the possibilities are endless.

On Toast

Spread a generous layer of orange marmalade on warm toast for a delightful breakfast treat.

With Yogurt

Stir orange marmalade into yogurt for an added burst of flavor and sweetness, perfect for a healthy snack.

As a Glaze

Brush orange marmalade over chicken or beef chops before baking to create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

In Overnight Oats

Mix orange marmalade into your overnight oats for a refreshing citrus twist that pairs well with nuts and seeds.

With Cheese

Serve orange marmalade alongside cheese platters. It complements soft cheeses like brie or sharp cheeses like cheddar exceptionally well.

In Baking

Use orange marmalade in baking recipes, such as filling for pastries or drizzling over cakes to add moisture and flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Marmalade

Perfecting your orange marmalade can elevate its taste and texture significantly. Here are some tips to ensure your marmalade turns out just right:

Choose ripe oranges: Select fresh, ripe oranges with bright skin. This ensures maximum flavor and sweetness in your marmalade.
Evenly chop fruit: Cut the oranges into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the marmalade.
Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking can lead to a thick, hard consistency, while undercooking may result in a runny texture.
Test for doneness: Use the cold plate test by placing spoonfuls on a chilled plate. If it gels slightly when cooled, it’s ready!
Store properly: Allow your orange marmalade to cool completely before sealing it in jars. This helps preserve its freshness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade

Pairing side dishes with orange marmalade can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Crispy Roasted Potatoes
Toss potatoes with olive oil and herbs, then roast until golden brown. The savory crunch complements the sweet marmalade well.
Sautéed Green Beans
Cook green beans in garlic and olive oil for a simple side. A drizzle of orange marmalade adds an unexpected zing.
Basmati Rice Pilaf
Flavor basmati rice with spices and nuts for an aromatic dish that harmonizes beautifully with the brightness of orange.
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly grill asparagus spears and serve them with a dollop of orange marmalade drizzled on top for a fresh twist.
Quinoa Salad
Combine cooked quinoa with vegetables and dress it with lemon juice and orange marmalade for added sweetness and texture.
Spinach Salad
Toss fresh spinach leaves with walnuts, feta cheese, and a dressing made from orange marmalade for a refreshing salad option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Orange Marmalade can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for a perfect batch.

Not washing the fruit properly: Always scrub the oranges and lemon to remove any wax or pesticides. This ensures a clean taste in your marmalade.
Skipping the chopping step: Failing to chop the oranges finely can lead to an uneven texture. Make sure the pieces are small enough to break down during cooking.
Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your marmalade. Keep an eye on it, and remember that it should slide off the spoon in sheets when done.
Using the wrong containers: Not choosing airtight containers can affect freshness. Use jars with tight lids to keep your marmalade fresh longer.
Neglecting to test for doneness: Pouring a spoonful onto a cold plate is key. If it runs easily, continue cooking until you achieve the right consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Orange Marmalade

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

Reheating Orange Marmalade

Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish at low heat until warm.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Gently heat over low flame, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Marmalade?

Orange Marmalade is a sweet and tangy spread made from oranges and sugar, often enjoyed on toast or as a condiment.

How can I use Orange Marmalade?

You can use Orange Marmalade in various ways, such as on toast, mixed into yogurt, or used as a glaze for chicken or beef dishes.

Can I add spices to my Orange Marmalade?

Yes! Feel free to customize your recipe by adding spices like ginger or cinnamon for extra flavor.

Is this an easy orange marmalade recipe?

Absolutely! This easy orange marmalade recipe requires just four ingredients and no special equipment, making it perfect for beginners.

Final Thoughts

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is delightful and versatile. It pairs beautifully with many dishes and adds a burst of citrus flavor wherever you use it. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices!

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