This quick grape jelly recipe is made with just 3 easy ingredients and is incredibly simple to prepare. It delivers a delicious, homemade treat in no time at all.
Making grape jelly is a fun project that’s easy to do at home. I used to make it for my kids when they were younger, and they always enjoyed it. They loved the sweet, fruity flavor, and it reminded them of summer.
I use fresh grapes to make this jelly, and I prefer Concord grapes because they have a rich taste and beautiful color. You can make it a bit healthier by using less sugar or a sugar substitute if you like.
Enjoy this grape jelly spread on toast, as a topping for desserts, or even as a glaze for meats. It’s a versatile and tasty treat that adds a special touch to your meals.
Why You Will Love This Grape Jelly Recipe?
You will love this grape jelly recipe because it’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The process is straightforward, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a sweet, fruity jelly that’s perfect for spreading on toast or using in your favorite recipes.
The homemade touch adds a special flavor that you just can’t get from store-bought varieties. Plus, making your grape jelly allows you to control the ingredients, so you can enjoy a treat that’s both tasty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds of grapes
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) powdered pectin
- 7 cups granulated sugar
How to make Grape Jelly
Step 1:
Wash the grapes thoroughly and remove the stems. Place the grapes in a large pot and crush them to release their juices.
Step 2:
Bring the crushed grapes to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3:
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to extract the juice. You should get about 5 cups of grape juice.
Step 4:
Pour the grape juice into a large pot and stir in the powdered pectin until well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 5:
Once boiling, add the granulated sugar all at once, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil that doesn’t stop bubbling when stirred, and boil for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6:
To check if the jelly is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. If it forms a gel-like consistency that wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling for another minute and test again.
Step 7:
Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam from the surface. Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
Step 8:
Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.
Recipe tips
- Crush the grapes well to release all the juice. You can use a potato masher or your hands to do the job.
- For a smooth jelly, strain the grape mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. This will remove any seeds, skins, and pulp.
- After straining, measure the juice to ensure you have the right amount. This is crucial for achieving the correct consistency.
- Stir the pectin into the grape juice until it’s fully dissolved before adding the sugar. This will help the jelly set properly.
- When boiling the jelly, ensure it reaches a rolling boil that can’t be stirred down. This ensures that the pectin activates and the jelly sets.
- Use the cold plate test to check if your jelly is ready. Drop a small amount of jelly on a cold plate, wait a minute, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.
How to use Grape Jelly
You can enjoy grape jelly in many easy and tasty ways. Spread it on toast or stir it into your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a sweet start to your day. It’s a simple way to add flavor to your breakfast.
You can also use grape jelly as a glaze for meats like chicken or pork. Mix it with some mustard or soy sauce, and you’ve got a sweet and tangy glaze perfect for grilling or roasting. It’s an easy way to make your meals more exciting.
If you like desserts, you can use grape jelly as a filling for cookies or swirl it into a cake. It adds a sweet, fruity touch to your treats and is a great ingredient to have on hand for baking.
How to keep it fresh
To keep your grape jelly fresh, make sure to store it properly. After making the jelly, let it cool completely before transferring it to clean, airtight jars. Seal the jars tightly to prevent any air from getting in, which can help preserve the flavor and texture.
Once sealed, store the jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry. If you’ve opened a jar, keep it in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks. This will keep your jelly fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
FAQ
Do I need to use pectin in grape jelly?
- Yes, pectin is essential for helping the jelly set. If you don’t use pectin, the jelly might not thicken properly.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
- Reducing sugar can affect the setting and preservation of the jelly. However, there are low-sugar pectin options available if you want to make a low-sugar version.
What should I do if my jelly doesn’t set?
- If your jelly doesn’t set, you can try re-cooking it with additional pectin. Bring the jelly to a boil again, add the pectin, and then reprocess it.
How do I know when the jelly is ready to be jarred?
- The jelly is ready when it reaches a temperature of about 220°F (104°C). You can also test it by placing a small amount on a cold plate—if it wrinkles when you push it, it’s ready.
Can I reuse jars from store-bought jams for my homemade jelly?
- It’s best to use jars specifically designed for canning. Reusing jars from store-bought products might not seal properly, which could lead to spoilage.
Is grape jelly gluten-free?
- Yes, grape jelly is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the ingredients if you’re using pectin or other additives to ensure they are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Making grape jelly is a fun and satisfying process. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create a tasty jelly that’s great for toast, recipes, or gifts. Homemade grape jelly brings a sweet, fruity flavor that you can enjoy all year long.
Grape Jelly Recipe
Course: CondimentCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes30
minutes40
minutesThis quick grape jelly recipe is made with just 3 easy ingredients and is incredibly simple to prepare. It delivers a delicious, homemade treat in no time at all.
Ingredients
4 pounds of grapes
1 package (1.75 ounces) powdered pectin
7 cups granulated sugar
Directions
- Wash the grapes thoroughly and remove the stems. Place the grapes in a large pot and crush them to release their juices.
- Bring the crushed grapes to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to extract the juice. You should get about 5 cups of grape juice.
- Pour the grape juice into a large pot and stir in the powdered pectin until well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, add the granulated sugar all at once, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil that doesn’t stop bubbling when stirred, and boil for 1-2 minutes.
- To check if the jelly is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. If it forms a gel-like consistency that wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling for another minute and test again.
- Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam from the surface. Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.