Homemade Orange Marmalade with Tender Zest Ribbons
Desserts

Homemade Orange Marmalade with Tender Zest Ribbons

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 12, 2026

This golden, sun-ripened orange marmalade combines silky zest ribbons, fresh-squeezed juice, and chunky pulp for a perfectly balanced citrus spread. It transforms a humble breakfast into something special and makes a wonderful handmade gift. Simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough for any table.

Prep⏱️ 120 min
Servings👥 20 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
↓ Jump to Recipe Pin it
Pinterest WhatsApp Facebook

🛒 Ingredients

20 servings

20
  • 12 ripe, juicy oranges
  • 2¼ lbs (1 kg) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (250 ml) water
  • Zest strips from 3 oranges
  • Freshly squeezed juice from 6 oranges
  • Pulp scooped from 6 oranges

Directions

  1. 1

    Using a vegetable peeler, remove the zest from 3 oranges avoiding the bitter white pith, then slice into thin, even strips with a sharp knife.

  2. 2

    Blanch the zest strips in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to mellow any remaining bitterness.

  3. 3

    Juice 6 oranges thoroughly. Halve the remaining 6 oranges and scoop out the pulp with a spoon, keeping it in generous chunks without pressing.

  4. 4

    In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the blanched zest strips, orange juice, pulp, sugar, and water. Stir to combine.

  5. 5

    Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, then cook at a steady low boil for 40–50 minutes, stirring regularly, until the marmalade thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

  6. 6

    The marmalade is ready when it turns glossy and a translucent foam rises to the surface. Ladle immediately into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and invert until cool.

💡 Chef's Tip

Test the set by dropping a little marmalade onto a chilled plate — if it wrinkles when nudged after a few seconds, it's perfectly done. For a warming variation, add a cinnamon stick or a split vanilla bean to the pot while it cooks.