This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is a delightful treat that brightens up your breakfast or snack time. Made with just four ingredients, this marmalade is versatile enough to pair with toast, chicken, or even yogurt. The sweet and tangy flavors of oranges combined with lemon create a perfect balance, making it a standout choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s simple to prepare without requiring special equipment!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Marmalade
- How to Make Orange Marmalade
- Step 1: Prep Fruit
- Step 2: Chop
- Step 3: Puree
- Step 4: Combine in Saucepan
- Step 5: Cook
- Step 6: Store
- How to Serve Orange Marmalade
- On Toast
- With Cheese
- As a Glaze for Chicken
- In Yogurt
- In Smoothies
- Over Ice Cream
- How to Perfect Orange Marmalade
- Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Orange Marmalade
- Reheating Orange Marmalade
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Orange Marmalade?
- Can I use other citrus fruits for marmalade?
- How do I use leftover Orange Marmalade?
- What if my Orange Marmalade is too runny?
- How do I know when my Orange Marmalade is done?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this marmalade in no time.
- Versatile Usage: Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to savory dishes, or even dolloping on desserts.
- Fresh Flavor: Enjoy the bright taste of citrus that enhances any meal or snack.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking by varying the sugar.
- Gift-Worthy: A jar of homemade orange marmalade makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Orange Marmalade recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Using the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Large saucepan
- Measuring cups
- Jar for storage
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool helps finely chop the oranges quickly and efficiently, saving time on prep work.
- Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows the mixture to boil evenly without risk of overflow.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect consistency in your 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
Step 1: Prep Fruit
Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly by scrubbing their peels.
Step 2: Chop
Cut off the ends of the oranges. Halve each orange and then cut each half into four pieces. Discard any seeds you find.
Step 3: Puree
Place the orange pieces in a food processor. Pulse until the rind is in very small pieces. While you prepare your mixture, place a plate in the freezer; this will help us test for doneness later.
Step 4: Combine in Saucepan
Add the pureed oranges into a large saucepan over medium heat. Zest the lemon directly into the pot and squeeze its juice in as well. Then add water and sugar; stir well to combine.
Step 5: Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to maintain a low boil and simmer while stirring often for about 30-35 minutes until thickened. The mixture should slide off a spoon in sheets rather than droplets. To check for doneness, pour a spoonful onto your cold plate; it should form a soft gel consistency that moves slightly when tilted.
Step 6: Store
Pour your finished 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 freezing it for up to three months.
With this easy Orange Marmalade recipe, you can enjoy homemade goodness anytime!
How to Serve Orange Marmalade
Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes. Whether you enjoy it on breakfast items or as a glaze for meat, there are countless ways to incorporate this delicious spread into your meals.
On Toast
- Spread a generous layer of orange marmalade on warm toast for a delightful breakfast treat.
With Cheese
- Pair orange marmalade with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sweet and savory snack.
As a Glaze for Chicken
- Brush orange marmalade onto chicken breasts before baking for a sweet, caramelized finish.
In Yogurt
- Stir orange marmalade into yogurt for added flavor and sweetness, creating a refreshing snack or breakfast option.
In Smoothies
- Blend orange marmalade into your favorite smoothie recipe for a burst of citrus flavor.
Over Ice Cream
- Drizzle warm orange marmalade over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
How to Perfect Orange Marmalade
Making the best orange marmalade requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure your marmalade turns out perfectly every time.
- Choose the right oranges: Select ripe, fresh oranges for the best flavor and aroma in your marmalade.
- Scrub thoroughly: Clean the peels of the oranges well before using them to remove any wax or pesticides.
- Test for doneness: Keep a cold plate in the freezer to test the consistency of your marmalade as it cooks.
- Stir often: Stirring frequently prevents the mixture from sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot.
- Store properly: Allow your orange marmalade to cool completely before sealing jars to maintain freshness.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to reduce sugar if you prefer a less sweet version, but keep in mind that sugar also aids in preservation.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade
Orange marmalade complements various side dishes beautifully, adding sweetness and depth. Here are some great options to serve alongside:
Roasted Vegetables
Toss seasonal veggies such as carrots or Brussels sprouts with olive oil and orange marmalade before roasting.Savory Rice Pilaf
Enhance rice pilaf with hints of citrus by stirring in orange zest and a spoonful of marmalade during cooking.Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Mix in a bit of orange marmalade with mashed sweet potatoes for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with meats.Green Salad
Dress mixed greens with an orange vinaigrette made from olive oil, vinegar, and a spoonful of orange marmalade.Quinoa Salad
Combine cooked quinoa with diced vegetables and orange marmalade for a bright, refreshing dish.Pasta Primavera
Toss cooked pasta with sautéed vegetables and add a touch of orange marmalade for an unexpected twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Orange Marmalade is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your marmalade turns out perfectly.
- Bold fruit prep: Not washing the fruit thoroughly can lead to bitterness. Always scrub the peels of oranges and lemons before using them.
- Bold incorrect chopping: Cutting the oranges too large will result in a chunky texture. Ensure you chop them into small pieces for even cooking and a smoother marmalade.
- Bold skipping the puree step: Failing to puree the orange pieces will leave larger rind chunks, which might not create the desired consistency. Use a food processor to achieve a fine chop.
- Bold overlooking doneness: Waiting until the mixture looks thick without testing can lead to runny marmalade. Always pour a spoonful onto a cold plate to check for gel consistency.
- Bold improper storage: Storing in non-airtight containers may spoil your marmalade faster. Use jars with tight lids for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Orange Marmalade in airtight jars.
- It lasts up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Orange Marmalade
- For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or jars.
- Your marmalade can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Orange Marmalade
- Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to low heat and warm in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
- Bold Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
- Bold Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orange Marmalade?
Orange Marmalade is a sweet and tangy preserve made from oranges and sugar. It’s perfect as a spread or ingredient in various dishes.
Can I use other citrus fruits for marmalade?
Yes! You can experiment with lemons, limes, or grapefruits for unique flavors while following the same recipe method.
How do I use leftover Orange Marmalade?
Use it as a glaze for meats like chicken or beef, stir it into yogurt, or spread it on toast for breakfast.
What if my Orange Marmalade is too runny?
If your marmalade doesn’t set properly, you can return it to heat and simmer longer while stirring frequently until it thickens.
How do I know when my Orange Marmalade is done?
Test by pouring a spoonful onto a cold plate; it should gel slightly and hold its shape when cooled.
Final Thoughts
This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on toast, use it as a glaze for meats, or mix it into desserts. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra flavor twist!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Orange Marmalade
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Savor the taste of homemade Orange Marmalade, a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that elevate your breakfast or snack time. With just four simple ingredients, this easy recipe allows you to create a vibrant marmalade that’s perfect for spreading on toast, glazing meats, or enriching desserts. The bright citrus notes of oranges combined with lemon zest offer a refreshing twist to any meal. Plus, it’s effortless to prepare without requiring special equipment! Whether you’re enjoying it yourself or giving it as a thoughtful gift, this Orange Marmalade is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2.0 to 2.3 pounds fresh oranges (about 4 medium)
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/3 cup water
- 4 cups granulated sugar
Instructions
- Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly.
- Cut off the ends of the oranges, halve them, and slice each half into small pieces; discard seeds.
- Puree the orange pieces in a food processor until finely chopped.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the pureed oranges, lemon zest and juice, water, and sugar; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a low boil for about 30-35 minutes while stirring often until thickened. Test for doneness using a cold plate.
- Pour into jars or containers with lids; allow cooling before refrigerating (up to two weeks) or freezing (up to three months).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





