Apple Jelly

Name: Apple Jelly
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 4 jars
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 1.5 kg apples (mixed varieties, washed and quartered); 3 cups water; 1.5 kg granulated sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

90 min 4 jars Medium

All Recipes

Apple Jelly

A delightful apple jelly, perfect for breakfast spreads or adding a sweet touch to desserts.

Prep

30 min

Cook

60 min

Total

90 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Apple jelly is a quintessential preserve that captures the essence of fresh apples in a sweet, spreadable form. This traditional recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the natural sweetness of apples without added spices or flavours. Making apple jelly at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a preserve that is both delicious and versatile. Spread it on toast, serve it with scones, or use it as a glaze for meats – the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients

Servings

Apple Jelly

Instructions

Prepare the apples

Wash and quarter the apples, leaving the core and skin intact as they contain natural pectin.

Pro tip: Using a variety of apples will enhance the flavour and pectin content.

Cook the apples

Place apples and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25-30 minutes until apples are soft.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Strain the juice

Pour the cooked apples into a jelly bag or cheesecloth over a bowl and let the juice drip for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Pro tip: Do not squeeze the bag for a clearer jelly.

Prepare the jelly

Measure 5 cups of apple juice into a pot. Add sugar and lemon juice, stir over low heat until sugar dissolves.

Pro tip: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.

Boil the mixture

Increase heat and bring to a rapid boil until the mixture reaches 105°C (221°F) or passes the gel test.

Pro tip: The gel test: place a small amount on a cold plate and check if it wrinkles when pushed.

Jar the jelly

Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) headspace. Seal with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure jars are completely covered by water during processing.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings.</li><li>Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavour.</li><li>Ensure jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage.</li><li>Allow jelly to cool undisturbed for a clear finish.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Apple jelly can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and use within a month for best quality. Serve apple jelly with breakfast pastries, as a sweet addition to cheese boards, or as a glaze for roasted pork or chicken. Its sweet-tart flavour pairs well with a variety of dishes.