A simple homemade grape jelly or jam made from fresh grapes, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.
15 min prep
30 min cook
32 servings
50 kcal/serving
Ingredients
4 cups fresh Concord or red grapes (about 2 lbs)
1/2 cup water
3 cups granulated sugar
1 package (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
Instructions
Wash grapes and remove stems. Place grapes and water in a large pot. Crush grapes with a potato masher. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Strain grape mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, pressing to extract juice. Discard solids. Measure 3 cups of juice (if short, add water; if extra, save for another use).
Return juice to the pot. Stir in pectin until dissolved. Bring to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
Add sugar all at once, stirring to dissolve. Return to a full rolling boil and boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with a metal spoon.
Ladle hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal with lids and rings. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Let cool undisturbed for 24 hours. Check seals.
For jam: After crushing grapes, skip straining. Simmer until thickened, about 20 minutes. Then add pectin and sugar as directed, boil 1 minute, and proceed.
Tips
Use Concord grapes for classic flavor; red or black grapes also work.
Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate after opening.
To test if jam is set, place a spoonful on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it's ready.