Apple jelly is a sweet and tasty treat. It is perfect for breakfast or snacks. You can spread it on toast, biscuits, or crackers. Making apple jelly at home is fun and simple. This recipe shows you how to make it step by step.
What Is Apple Jelly?
Apple jelly is made from apple juice. It is clear and smooth. Unlike apple jam, jelly has no fruit pieces inside. The jelly has a firm texture that holds its shape well. It tastes sweet and a little tangy.
Best Apples for Jelly
Choosing the right apples is very important. Apples with natural pectin help jelly set well. Pectin is a natural thickener in fruit. Here are good apples for jelly:
- Granny Smith (tart and firm)
- McIntosh (sweet and mild)
- Jonathan (tart and flavorful)
- Rome Beauty (sweet and crisp)
Mixing tart and sweet apples gives the best taste and texture.
Ingredients You Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Apples (with peels and cores) | 4 pounds (about 8 medium apples) |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Sugar | 4 cups |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Note: You do not need added pectin. Apples have enough natural pectin in peels and cores.
How to Make Apple Jelly
Step 1: Prepare The Apples
Wash the apples well. Cut them into small pieces. Do not remove peels or cores. These parts have pectin. Place apple pieces in a large pot.
Step 2: Cook The Apples
Add 4 cups of water to the pot. Heat on medium until boiling. Then lower heat and simmer for 45 minutes. Stir now and then. Apples will become soft and mushy.
Step 3: Strain The Juice
Place a jelly bag or cheesecloth over a bowl. Pour the cooked apple mixture into it. Let it drip for several hours or overnight. Do not squeeze the bag. This keeps jelly clear.
Step 4: Measure The Juice
After straining, measure the apple juice. You need equal amounts of juice and sugar. For example, if you have 4 cups juice, use 4 cups sugar.
Step 5: Cook The Jelly
Pour apple juice into a clean pot. Add lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Heat on high until boiling. Boil hard for 10-15 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning.
Step 6: Test The Jelly
To check if jelly is set, use the cold plate test. Put a small spoon of jelly on a cold plate. Wait 1 minute. Push it gently with your finger. If it wrinkles, jelly is ready. If not, boil a bit longer and test again.
Step 7: Jar The Jelly
Wash jars and lids with hot soapy water. Sterilize by boiling jars in water for 10 minutes. Pour hot jelly into hot jars. Leave 1/4 inch space at top. Wipe jar rims clean. Seal with lids tightly.
Step 8: Cool And Store
Let jars cool on a towel overnight. You will hear a “pop” sound. This means jars sealed well. Store jelly in a cool, dark place. Opened jars keep in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Tips for Perfect Apple Jelly
- Use fresh, firm apples for best juice.
- Do not squeeze the juice bag to keep jelly clear.
- Use equal amounts of juice and sugar.
- Boil jelly until it passes the plate test.
- Sterilize jars to avoid spoilage.
- Use lemon juice to balance sweetness and help gel.
Why Make Apple Jelly at Home?
Store-bought jelly may have additives. Homemade jelly is natural and pure. You control the sweetness and flavor. It is a great way to use extra apples. Plus, it makes a lovely gift.
Difference Between Jelly and Jam
Jelly is made from fruit juice only. It is clear and firm. Jam uses whole fruit including pulp. Jam is thicker and has fruit pieces. Both are delicious but different in texture.
How Long Does Apple Jelly Last?
Unopened jars last for 1 year or more. Keep them in a cool, dark place. After opening, store in the fridge. Use within 3 weeks for best taste and safety.
Summary
Making apple jelly is simple and fun. You need apples, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook apples, strain juice, add sugar and boil. Test jelly on a cold plate. Pour into jars and seal. Enjoy your tasty homemade apple jelly!