Best Easy Cherry Jelly Recipe with Sure Jell
Jelly is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on toast, scones, or even as a topping for desserts. Cherry jelly, in particular, offers a burst of sweet and tangy flavors that are simply irresistible. If you’re looking for an easy and foolproof recipe to make your own cherry jelly, look no further. This recipe using Sure Jell is quick, simple, and guarantees a delicious end result.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups of fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
– 4 cups of granulated sugar
– 1 package of Sure Jell fruit pectin
– 1/2 cup of lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Sterilize your jelly jars by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Place the lids and bands in a separate pot of simmering water while you prepare the jelly.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped cherries and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and become soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and Sure Jell fruit pectin until well combined. Add the sugar mixture to the saucepan with the cherries, stirring constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved.
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once it reaches a full boil, continue boiling for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface of the jelly.
6. Carefully ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills or drips. Place the lids and bands on the jars, tightening the bands just until they’re snug.
7. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a wire rack for 24 hours.
Now that you have your delicious homemade cherry jelly, it’s time to enjoy it! Spread it on warm toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are endless.
Here are some frequently asked questions about making cherry jelly with Sure Jell:
Q1: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Q2: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
A2: The sugar in this recipe not only adds sweetness but also helps with the jelly’s texture and preservation. It’s not recommended to reduce the amount of sugar.
Q3: How long does the cherry jelly last?
A3: When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, cherry jelly can last up to a year.
Q4: Can I use a different brand of fruit pectin?
A4: Yes, you can use a different brand, but the instructions and proportions may vary. Read the package instructions carefully.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Q6: How can I tell if the jelly is properly set?
A6: You can perform a “wrinkle test” by placing a small amount of jelly on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s set.
Q7: Can I use this recipe for other fruits?
A7: Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for various fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or peaches.
Now that you have all the information and a fantastic recipe at hand, it’s time to try making your own cherry jelly with Sure Jell. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!