Mediterranean Sunshine and the Art of Marmalade
From Valencia Oranges to Italian Orange Bitters
The story behind our bright, citrus-filled Summer Citrus Marmalade with Italian Orange Bitters.
Quick Answer
Summer Citrus Marmalade with Italian Orange Bitters is a handmade marmalade prepared with Valencia oranges, pink grapefruit, lemons and limes. In this recipe, the Italian orange bitters come from a splash of Aperol, giving the marmalade a bright citrus flavour and an aromatic finish inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture.
At The Artisan Kitchen, I love exploring the many personalities of citrus. While traditional Seville orange marmalade remains a timeless classic, this recipe was created to capture something brighter, fresher and more reminiscent of long summer days.
The result is a beautifully layered marmalade. Sweet Valencia oranges bring sunshine, pink grapefruit adds lively citrus character, lemons bring freshness and limes add fragrance. Finally, the Italian orange bitters, which come from a splash of Aperol in this recipe, add subtle aromatic depth without overwhelming the fruit.
Inspired by Mediterranean Flavours
This marmalade takes inspiration from the bright citrus flavours often associated with the Italian aperitivo tradition. Citrus and bitters work beautifully together because they create a flavour that feels refreshing, rounded and wonderfully balanced.
In this recipe, Aperol provides the Italian orange bitters element. It complements the natural citrus rather than taking over, so the marmalade remains fruit-led, fresh and elegant, with a distinctive character of its own.
Which Citrus Fruits Are Used?
Each fruit brings something different to the finished marmalade:
- Valencia oranges bring sweetness and sunshine.
- Pink grapefruit adds lively citrus notes.
- Lemons contribute brightness and freshness.
- Limes provide fragrance and balance.
- Aperol adds orange, herbal and aromatic complexity.
What Does Summer Citrus Marmalade Taste Like?
The flavour begins with sweet orange before revealing notes of grapefruit, lemon and lime. Meanwhile, the Italian orange bitters from Aperol contribute delicate aromatic layers that bring balance and depth.
Consequently, the overall character is lighter and brighter than many traditional marmalades. It feels fresh, sunny and uplifting while still retaining the complexity that marmalade lovers appreciate.
Chef’s Notes
I wanted to create a marmalade that captured the feeling of summer. While traditional Seville orange marmalade will always hold a special place in my kitchen, I was inspired by Mediterranean citrus and the bright, aromatic character of Italian aperitivo flavours.
The combination of Valencia oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes creates remarkable freshness, while Aperol adds another layer of orange-led aromatic complexity. Together, they produce a marmalade that feels sunny, vibrant and full of life.
How Does It Differ From Traditional Seville Orange Marmalade?
Classic Seville orange marmalade is prized for its bold and robust citrus character. By contrast, Summer Citrus Marmalade offers a brighter and more fragrant flavour profile.
Because several citrus fruits are used, the finished marmalade has layers of sweetness, freshness and gentle complexity. The Aperol brings a gentle Italian orange bitters note, making it especially appealing to those who enjoy lighter, more aromatic marmalades.
Ways to Enjoy Summer Citrus Marmalade
- Spread generously over hot buttered sourdough toast.
- Serve with croissants, brioche or crumpets.
- Spoon into Greek yoghurt or vanilla ice cream.
- Use in cheesecakes, tarts and citrus desserts.
- Pair with soft cheeses and cheeseboards.
- Brush over grilled halloumi, duck or roast chicken.
Handmade in Gloucestershire
Every jar is handmade in small batches in Gloucestershire by chef and founder Sarah Churchill.
Drawing upon experience gained at The Square Restaurant and more than a decade at Daylesford Organic, Sarah carefully prepares each batch to showcase the natural beauty of the fruit.
Since founding The Artisan Kitchen in 2011, Sarah has become one of Britain’s most awarded preserve makers, creating marmalades and jams that celebrate exceptional ingredients and traditional craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Summer Citrus Marmalade very strong?
No. The Italian orange bitters, from a splash of Aperol, add subtle complexity, but the overall flavour is bright, fresh and beautifully balanced.
Which fruits are used in Summer Citrus Marmalade?
The recipe combines Valencia oranges, pink grapefruit, lemons and limes together with Italian orange bitters from Aperol to create layers of citrus flavour.
Are the Italian orange bitters Aperol?
Yes. In this recipe, the Italian orange bitters come from a splash of Aperol, which brings orange, herbal and aromatic notes to the marmalade.
Is Summer Citrus Marmalade handmade?
Yes. Every jar is handmade in small batches in Gloucestershire by Sarah Churchill at The Artisan Kitchen.
What makes this marmalade different?
Unlike traditional single-fruit marmalades, Summer Citrus Marmalade combines several citrus varieties and finishes with Italian orange bitters from Aperol, producing a brighter and more aromatic flavour profile.
Related Reading
Written by Sarah Churchill, chef and founder of The Artisan Kitchen.
