Jam or Jelly Recipe

American · Condiment · 35 min total

A simple, classic fruit jam or jelly that captures the essence of fresh fruit. This recipe uses pectin for a reliable set and can be made with your favorite fruit.

Ingredients

• 4 cups crushed fruit (for jam) or 4 cups fruit juice (for jelly)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (bottled)
• 1 package (1.75 oz) powdered pectin
• 5 cups granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare fruit: For jam, wash and crush fruit thoroughly. For jelly, extract juice by simmering fruit with water and straining.
2. In a large pot, combine prepared fruit or juice with lemon juice and pectin. Stir well.
3. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
4. Add sugar all at once and return to a full rolling boil. Boil exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with a metal spoon.
6. Ladle hot jam/jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims, apply lids and bands.
7. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude). Remove and cool undisturbed for 24 hours.
8. Check seals; store unsealed jars in refrigerator.

Tips

• Use ripe but not overripe fruit for best pectin content.
• For low-sugar pectin, follow package instructions as sugar amount differs.
• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate after opening.

More about Jam or Jelly →