Crab apple jelly is a tasty treat made from small, tart apples called crab apples. It has a sweet and tangy flavor. Many people enjoy using it in different recipes. In this article, you will find easy and fun ways to cook with crab apple jelly. Let’s explore how to use this jelly to make your meals special.
What Is Crab Apple Jelly?
Crab apple jelly is a clear, shiny jelly made from crab apples. These apples have lots of pectin. Pectin helps jelly to set, so you do not need extra pectin to make crab apple jelly. The jelly tastes a bit sour and sweet, perfect for many dishes. It looks beautiful on a plate and tastes great on your tongue.
How To Store Crab Apple Jelly
- Keep unopened jars in a dark, cool cupboard.
- Once opened, store the jar in the fridge.
- Jelly stays good for many months if kept sealed.
- After opening, use the jelly within a few weeks.
Simple Uses For Crab Apple Jelly
This jelly is easy to add to many foods. Here are some quick ideas:
- Spread on toast or biscuits for breakfast.
- Add a spoonful to plain yogurt for sweetness.
- Use as a glaze on grilled chicken or pork.
- Mix with salad dressing for a sweet touch.
- Serve with cheese and cold meats on a board.
Recipes With Crab Apple Jelly
Now, let’s look at some recipes. These use crab apple jelly to make food tasty and fun. Each recipe is easy to follow.
1. Crab Apple Jelly Glazed Chicken
This recipe makes juicy, sticky chicken with a sweet glaze.
- 4 chicken thighs or wings
- 3 tablespoons crab apple jelly
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix crab apple jelly, soy sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Brush the jelly mix on chicken.
- Place chicken on a baking tray.
- Bake for 30 minutes, brushing jelly again after 15 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or vegetables.
2. Crab Apple Jelly Salad Dressing
Make a fresh salad dressing with a sweet and tangy twist.
- 2 tablespoons crab apple jelly
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
- Whisk or shake well until combined.
- Pour over your favorite salad.
- Toss salad and serve immediately.
3. Crab Apple Jelly And Cheese Toast
This is a quick and tasty snack or breakfast idea.
- 2 slices of bread
- Butter or margarine
- 2 tablespoons crab apple jelly
- 4 slices of cheddar or any cheese
Steps:
- Toast the bread slices lightly.
- Spread butter on the warm toast.
- Spread crab apple jelly on top of butter.
- Place cheese slices over the jelly.
- Put under grill for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Enjoy warm for a sweet and savory taste.
4. Crab Apple Jelly Pancakes

Add crab apple jelly to pancakes for a fruity flavor.
- 1 cup pancake mix
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Butter for cooking
- Crab apple jelly for topping
Steps:
- Mix pancake mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
- Heat a pan and melt some butter.
- Pour batter to make small pancakes.
- Cook until bubbles appear, then flip and cook other side.
- Serve pancakes with crab apple jelly on top.
5. Crab Apple Jelly Barbecue Sauce
Use crab apple jelly to make a sweet barbecue sauce.
- 1/2 cup crab apple jelly
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Steps:
- Mix all ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Heat on low and stir until jelly melts and sauce is smooth.
- Use as a sauce for grilled meat or vegetables.
- Store leftover sauce in the fridge for up to one week.
More Ways To Enjoy Crab Apple Jelly
Here are other simple ideas to try:
- Stir jelly into oatmeal or porridge for sweetness.
- Spread jelly on crackers with cream cheese.
- Add jelly to cocktails for a fruity twist.
- Use jelly to sweeten sauces or stews.
- Mix jelly with mustard for a tasty sandwich spread.
Why Choose Crab Apple Jelly?
Crab apple jelly is natural and easy to make. It needs no extra pectin. It has a nice balance of sweet and tart. This jelly adds a fresh flavor to your dishes. It is a great way to use crab apples after harvest. Plus, it lasts for months when stored well.
How To Make Crab Apple Jelly At Home
If you want to make your own jelly, here is a simple recipe.
- 4 cups crab apples, washed and chopped
- 5 cups water
- 5 cups sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
Steps:
- Put crab apples and water in a large pot.
- Cook on medium heat until apples are soft (about 30 minutes).
- Strain juice through a cloth or sieve without squeezing.
- Measure juice and put it back in the pot.
- Add sugar and lemon juice to juice in pot.
- Boil until jelly thickens (test by putting a spoon in cold water and see if jelly sets).
- Pour hot jelly into clean jars and seal.
Store jars in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your homemade crab apple jelly in many recipes.

