How to Make Beer-Infused Marmalade: A Zesty Recipe with Adnams Single Malt Whisky & Seville Orange Marmalade

Marmalade is a beloved British classic, but have you ever thought of giving it a boozy twist with beer? Beer-infused marmalade combines the bright bitterness of Seville oranges with the malty depth of a good ale or stout, creating a preserve that's perfect for spreading on toast, glazing meats, or pairing with cheese. It's a fantastic way to elevate your homemade preserves and impress breakfast guests.

In this guide, we'll walk you through a simple, foolproof recipe for beer-infused marmalade using Adnams beer. Whether you prefer a citrusy IPA or a rich dark beer, the result is a tangy, complex marmalade that captures the spirit of Suffolk. And if you're short on time, we'll also show you how to enjoy a ready-made version from Adnams that delivers all the flavor without the effort.

Why Beer and Marmalade Work So Well Together

Beer and marmalade might seem like an unlikely pair, but they share a surprising affinity. The bitterness of hops echoes the pithy bitterness of Seville oranges, while the malt sweetness in beer complements the sugar used in marmalade. Together, they create a balanced preserve that's less one-dimensional than traditional marmalade, with layers of flavor that unfold on the palate.

Dark beers like stouts and porters bring notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel that meld beautifully with orange. Lighter ales, such as Adnams Ghost Ship, add a zesty, floral character that brightens the marmalade. The carbonation in beer also helps break down the fruit pectin during cooking, resulting in a softer, more spreadable set. For a truly unique experience, try using a beer that you already love to drink—it will shine through in the final jar.

• Choose a beer with complementary flavors: malty for richness, hoppy for brightness.

Choosing the Right Beer for Your Marmalade

The beer you select will define the character of your marmalade. For a classic British marmalade with a robust backbone, an English bitter or pale ale works wonderfully. Adnams Broadside, with its rich malt and subtle fruitiness, is an excellent choice—it adds depth without overpowering the orange. If you prefer a lighter, more citrus-forward preserve, try a session IPA like Adnams Ghost Ship, which amplifies the orange notes with its zesty hops.

For a truly indulgent version, consider using a dark beer like a stout or porter. The roasted malt flavors create a marmalade that tastes almost like dark chocolate and orange—a perfect pairing for strong cheese or scones. You can also experiment with sour beers or fruit beers for a tart, complex preserve. Whichever you choose, avoid overly bitter IPAs (unless you love a very bitter marmalade) and always use a beer you'd enjoy drinking.

• Adnams Broadside adds malty richness; Ghost Ship brings citrusy brightness.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Beer-Infused Seville Orange Marmalade

This recipe makes about 4-5 jars of marmalade. You'll need 1 kg Seville oranges, 1.5 kg granulated sugar, 500 ml of your chosen Adnams beer (such as Broadside or Ghost Ship), 1 lemon (juiced), and a muslin bag for the pips. Start by washing the oranges and cutting them in half. Squeeze the juice into a large preserving pan, then tie the pips and any loose membranes in a muslin bag. Slice the orange peel into thin strips (or chunky, if you prefer).

Add the sliced peel, the muslin bag, the lemon juice, and the beer to the pan. Pour in 1 liter of water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 1.5-2 hours, until the peel is tender and the liquid has reduced by about a third. Remove the muslin bag, squeezing out any pectin-rich liquid back into the pan. Add the sugar and stir over low heat until completely dissolved. Then increase the heat and boil rapidly until the setting point is reached (about 105°C on a sugar thermometer, or until a small amount wrinkles on a cold plate).

Remove from heat, let it sit for 10 minutes, then stir gently to distribute the peel. Pour into sterilized jars and seal immediately. The marmalade will keep for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and enjoy within 3 months.

• Use a sugar thermometer for precise setting point (105°C / 220°F).
• Sterilize jars by washing in hot soapy water, then drying in a low oven (140°C) for 10 minutes.

How to Use Beer-Infused Marmalade Beyond Breakfast

Beer-infused marmalade isn't just for toast—it's a versatile ingredient that can elevate both sweet and savory dishes. Use it as a glaze for roasted pork, chicken, or salmon: simply brush it on during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a sticky, caramelized finish. It also makes a fantastic addition to cheese boards, especially paired with sharp cheddar or creamy blue cheese. The bitterness of the orange cuts through rich cheese beautifully.

For desserts, swirl a spoonful into yogurt or porridge, or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies or a layer in a Victoria sponge. You can even mix it into a vinaigrette for a citrusy salad dressing. And if you're looking for a quick gift idea, a jar of homemade beer marmalade tied with a ribbon is a thoughtful, personal present. For an equally impressive ready-made option, try the Adnams Single Malt Whisky & Seville Orange Marmalade, which brings a whisky twist to the classic.

• Pair with strong cheddar or blue cheese for an easy appetizer.

A Quick Alternative: Ready-Made Adnams Marmalade for Busy Days

Not everyone has time to simmer oranges for two hours, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on the beer-infused marmalade experience. Adnams offers a ready-made Adnams Single Malt Whisky & Seville Orange Marmalade that combines the same tangy orange flavor with the warmth of single malt whisky. It's crafted with the same care as their beers, using Seville oranges for that authentic bitter-sweet balance.

This marmalade is perfect for spreading on fresh scones, glazing a Sunday roast, or gifting to a foodie friend. It also pairs wonderfully with the Adnams Champagne & Strawberry Conserve for a breakfast board that offers both boozy and fruity options. Whether you make your own or choose the ready-made version, beer-infused marmalade is a delightful way to bring the flavors of Suffolk into your kitchen.

Making beer-infused marmalade at home is a rewarding project that combines the best of British brewing and preserving traditions. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a preserve that's uniquely yours. And if you're ever short on time, the Adnams Single Malt Whisky & Seville Orange Marmalade delivers that same delicious character straight from the jar. So grab your favorite Adnams beer, some Seville oranges, and get preserving—you'll be amazed at what a splash of beer can do.