Apple Jelly Recipe for Canning: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
Apple jelly is a classic preserve that captures the essence of fall. Made with fresh apple juice, it's a delicious spread for toast, biscuits, and even cheese. With a little effort, you can enjoy homemade apple jelly all year long.
This recipe will guide you through the process of making and canning apple jelly, ensuring safe and delicious results.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups apple juice, freshly pressed or store-bought
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 pouch (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Sauce pan
- Canning jars (pint-sized or half-pint)
- Canning lids and rings
- Canning rack
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large spoon or ladle
- Thermometer
- Clean kitchen towels
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Jars:
- Wash and sterilize canning jars, lids, and rings by boiling in water for 10 minutes.
- Place the canning rack in the bottom of a large pot.
2. Prepare the Apple Juice:
- Combine apple juice, lemon juice, and pectin in a large pot. Bring to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the Sugar:
- Immediately stir in sugar. Return to a full rolling boil and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
4. Fill the Jars:
- Ladle hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace at the top.
- Wipe jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to remove any jelly residue.
- Center lids on jars and screw on rings fingertip tight.
5. Process the Jars:
- Carefully lower filled jars into the boiling water bath, making sure water covers jars by 1-2 inches.
- Bring water back to a full boil, then process for 10 minutes.
- After processing, carefully remove jars from the water bath using a jar lifter.
- Place jars on a clean towel and let cool completely.
6. Check for Seals:
- As jars cool, you should hear a popping sound as the lids seal.
- To confirm, press down on the center of the lid. If it doesn't flex, the jar is sealed.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, ripe apples: The quality of the apple juice will directly impact the flavor of your jelly.
- Don't skimp on the pectin: Pectin is essential for setting the jelly.
- Boil the jelly quickly: This helps prevent the jelly from becoming cloudy.
- Use a thermometer: Accurate temperature monitoring is crucial for successful canning.
- Store in a cool, dark place: Once sealed, properly stored apple jelly will last for a year or more.
Enjoy Your Homemade Apple Jelly!
With a little time and effort, you can enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of homemade apple jelly all year long. It's a perfect addition to any breakfast table or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
