This homemade Concord grape jelly is a nostalgic treat, perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with peanut butter for a classic PB&J, or serving with cheeses and crackers. Made with fresh Concord grapes, this jelly has a vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor that will remind you of homemade preserves from your childhood.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Concord grapes (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
- 1/4 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foam)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grapes
- Wash the Concord grapes thoroughly. If using fresh grapes, remove them from their stems. If using frozen grapes, let them thaw completely and drain excess water.
- Place the grapes in a large pot and crush them with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to release their juice.
2. Cook the Grape Mixture
- Heat the mashed grapes over medium heat until they begin to simmer, about 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the grapes are soft, use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the juice from the pulp. This will give you the clear grape juice needed for jelly. Discard the pulp or use it for another recipe.
3. Make the Jelly
- Return the grape juice to the pot and add the lemon juice, sugar, and fruit pectin. Stir until the sugar and pectin are completely dissolved.
- If you want to reduce foam during the cooking process, stir in the butter.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once it starts to boil, continue boiling for 1-2 minutes. The jelly should thicken.
4. Test the Jelly’s Set
- To check if the jelly is set, place a spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through the jelly—if it wrinkles and doesn’t run back together, it’s ready.
- If it’s too runny, continue boiling for an additional 5-10 minutes, then retest.
5. Fill and Seal the Jars
- Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes.
- Carefully ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and screw the rings on tightly.
6. Process the Jars (Optional)
- For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This helps ensure the jelly is sealed properly and can be stored for up to a year.
- Remove the jars and let them cool completely on a towel or rack, ensuring they are sealed properly.
Storage:
- Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread on toast, muffins, or bagels for a sweet breakfast treat.
- Use as a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich filling.
- Pair with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a charcuterie board.
- Stir into yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity twist.
Tips for Success:
- If you want a smoother jelly, make sure to strain the juice thoroughly and use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- You can experiment with adding other fruit juices (like apple or pear) to create a unique jelly flavor.
- Ensure that the sugar and pectin are fully dissolved before boiling to avoid grainy texture.
This Concord grape jelly is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a must-have pantry staple for any lover of classic spreads!
