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Irresistible Apple Cider Jelly Recipe Perfect for Fall Desserts

Apple Cider Jelly - featured image

This Apple Cider Jelly captures the essence of fall with its crisp, sweet apple flavor and shimmering golden appearance. Perfect for brunches, cheese boards, or holiday gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh apple cider
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 pouch liquid pectin
  • Optional: 2 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Equipment: Sterilize jars and lids by washing them in hot, soapy water, then boiling them for 10 minutes. Let them dry completely.
  2. Strain the Apple Cider: Pour the apple cider through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl to remove any pulp or sediment.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour the strained cider, add the sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir gently until the sugar is dissolved.
  4. Heat the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the Pectin: Once the mixture is boiling, add the liquid pectin while stirring constantly.
  6. Boil to Perfection: Continue boiling the mixture for another 1-2 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to check that the temperature reaches 220°F (104°C). Alternatively, test the jelly by dipping a spoon into the mixture—if the liquid coats the back of the spoon and drips off slowly, it’s ready.
  7. (Optional) Add Spices: If adding cinnamon sticks or nutmeg, stir them in now. Let the flavors infuse for 1-2 minutes before removing the sticks.
  8. Pour into Jars: Carefully pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars using a funnel. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top for expansion. Wipe the rims clean and seal the jars tightly with their lids.
  9. Cool and Set: Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. The jelly will begin to set as it cools, which can take up to 24 hours.

Notes

[‘Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor.’, ‘Liquid pectin is essential for achieving a smooth, gel-like consistency.’, ‘Monitor the temperature closely to ensure the jelly sets properly.’, ‘Avoid over-stirring after adding the pectin to prevent air bubbles.’, ‘If the jelly doesn’t set after 24 hours, reheat it, add more pectin, and try again.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider jelly, fall dessert, homemade jelly, apple jelly, autumn recipe