Canned homemade cranberry juice is a way to preserve homemade cranberry juice for longer shelf life. To make canned homemade cranberry juice, follow these general steps:
Ingredients and materials:
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar (to taste)
- Water
- Canning jars and lids
- Canning equipment (water bath canner or pressure canner)
Instructions:
- Prepare the cranberries:
- Wash the cranberries thoroughly.
- Remove any stems or leaves.
- Prepare the juice:
- Place the cranberries in a large pot.
- Add enough water to cover the cranberries.
- Simmer the cranberries on low heat until they become soft and start to release their juices. This may take around 15-20 minutes.
- Use a potato masher or a spoon to crush the cranberries and extract the juice.
- Strain the juice:
- Pour the cranberry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the juice from the solids.
- Press down on the solids to extract as much juice as possible.
- Sweeten the juice:
- Add sugar to the strained cranberry juice to taste, typically 1-2 cups of sugar per 4 cups of juice, depending on your preference.
- Heat the juice:
- Return the sweetened juice to the pot and heat it to a simmer.
- Prepare the canning jars:
- While the juice is heating, prepare your canning jars and lids. They should be clean and sterilized.
- Fill the jars:
- Carefully pour the hot cranberry juice into the prepared canning jars, leaving some headspace at the top.
- Seal the jars:
- Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they are fingertip-tight.
- Process the jars:
- Process the filled jars in a water bath canner or pressure canner, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate processing time and pressure based on your elevation and the type of canner you’re using.
- Cool and store:
- Once the processing is complete, carefully remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool on a clean towel or rack.
- Check that the lids have sealed properly (they should not flex when pressed). If any jars didn’t seal, store them in the refrigerator and use them within a few weeks.
- Store the properly sealed jars in a cool, dark place. They can last for up to a year or more.
Canning homemade cranberry juice can be a great way to enjoy the flavors of fresh cranberries throughout the year. Just make sure to follow proper canning procedures to ensure safety and long-term storage.
