Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a homemade jelly that's as vibrant as it is delicious? This cranberry raspberry jelly recipe is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, making it ideal for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or adding a touch of elegance to your holiday gatherings. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the result is a homemade treat that’s far superior to anything you'll find in a store. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet stunning recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 box (1.75 oz) powdered pectin (ensure it's the correct type for jelly making)
- 7 half-pint jars with lids and rings (sterilized)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fruit
Start by combining the cranberries and raspberries in a large saucepan. If using frozen fruit, there's no need to thaw them beforehand.
Step 2: Making the Jelly Base
Add the water and sugar to the saucepan with the fruit. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Bringing it to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This is crucial for activating the pectin and setting the jelly properly.
Step 4: Adding the Pectin
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, stir in the powdered pectin vigorously. Continue to boil hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly. This one-minute boil is critical for the jelly's setting.
Step 5: Filling the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jelly into the prepared, sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth.
Step 6: Sealing the Jars
Place the lids and rings onto the jars, tightening them fingertip tight. Do not overtighten.
Step 7: Processing the Jars (Optional)
For longer shelf life, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step helps create a vacuum seal, ensuring the jelly stays fresh. If you skip this step, store the jelly in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.
Step 8: Cooling and Enjoying
Let the jars cool completely. You should hear a satisfying "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check for proper sealing by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it doesn't flex, your jelly is sealed and ready for storage.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Jelly:
- Use ripe fruit: The flavor of your jelly will be directly affected by the quality of the fruit you use. Choose ripe, flavorful cranberries and raspberries for the best results.
- Sterilize your jars: This is a vital step in ensuring the safety and long shelf life of your homemade jelly. Wash jars and lids thoroughly in hot soapy water, then sterilize them by boiling in water for 10 minutes.
- Don't skimp on the pectin: Using the correct amount of pectin ensures your jelly will set properly.
- Stir constantly: This prevents the mixture from burning and ensures even cooking.
Variations:
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a zesty twist.
- Orange zest: Similarly, a teaspoon of orange zest adds a wonderful citrus note.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or cloves adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients and serving size, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Sugar: High in natural sugars from the fruit.
This cranberry raspberry jelly recipe is a delightful way to showcase the vibrant flavors of autumn. It’s a perfect gift for friends and family, or simply a delicious treat for yourself. Enjoy the process of creating something delicious and share the joy of homemade goodness!