Jellied Apples
A delightful jellied apple dessert featuring tender apples in a sweet lemony syrup, perfect for autumn gatherings or family dinners, topped with cherries, nuts, or raisins.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare and core the apples.
- Place apples in an enameled pan and sift sugar over them.
- Add 1/4 cup cold water and lemon juice.
- Cover the pan and bring to a boil.
- Remove the cover and continue cooking.
- Cook until the bottom of an apple is clear, turning with an egg whip or spoon so the other end is in the syrup.
- When the syrup is ready to jell, take up the apples and place them on a platter.
- Fill the center of each apple with cherries, dates, nuts, or raisins.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples. If you don't have lemon juice, vinegar can be a substitute to prevent browning. To ensure even cooking, stir the apples gently while they cook, allowing the syrup to coat all sides. If desired, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, which pairs beautifully with this classic American recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the jellied apples warm or at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a delightful dessert or can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat. For a complete meal, consider pairing with savory dishes like Sweet-Sour Pot Roast to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover jellied apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the apples in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Heat gently until warmed through, taking care not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jellied Apples contains roughly 108 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
While apples are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with pears or even peaches. Keep in mind that different fruits may require adjustments in cooking time, so monitor their texture closely as they cook.
How do I know when the syrup is ready to jell?
The syrup is ready when it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. A simple test is to drop a small amount on a cold plate; if it holds its shape, it's ready. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes of cooking after the initial boil.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the jellied apples a day ahead. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, fill the apples with your choice of cherries, dates, nuts, or raisins just before serving to keep the filling fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).