Plum Jelly
Sweet and tangy plum jelly offers a vibrant fruit flavor with a smooth, glossy texture, perfect for spreading on toast or using as a versatile homemade preserve.
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 cups fresh plum juice
- 7 1/2 cups sugar ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix Sure Jell and fresh plum juice together in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a hard boil over medium-high heat.
- Add all the sugar at once to the boiling mixture.
- Return to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.
- Boil for 1 minute while stirring continuously.
- Remove the pot from heat.
- Skim off any foam from the surface.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your plum jelly, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of vanilla extract for depth. If you don't have Sure Jell, you can use another pectin brand, but follow their specific instructions. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage. For a lower sugar option, look for recipes like Sugar Free Old Fashion Apple Pie that can guide you on natural sweeteners.
Serving Suggestions
Plum jelly is a delightful spread for toast, biscuits, or pancakes. It pairs beautifully with Easy Beef Stew Pot Pie for a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or using it as a glaze for meats. For a refreshing drink, mix it into sparkling water or use it in cocktails.
Storage & Reheating
Store your plum jelly in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the jars and consume within a few weeks. To reheat, gently warm the jelly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plum Jelly contains roughly 423 calories, with 9g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (182% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 20g 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 frozen plums for this recipe?
Yes, frozen plums can be used, but ensure they are thawed and drained well before juicing. This will help maintain the jelly's consistency and flavor. Fresh plums yield the best results, but frozen ones are a convenient alternative if fresh are unavailable.
How do I know when the jelly is set?
Perform the spoon test: after boiling, dip a spoon into the jelly and let it cool for a few seconds. Then, run your finger through the jelly on the spoon; if it holds its shape and doesn't run back together, it's set. If not, boil for another minute and test again.
What can I do if my jelly doesn't set?
If your jelly doesn't set, you can reprocess it. Simply measure the jelly, add more Sure Jell according to the package instructions, and reboil. Make sure to thoroughly mix and follow the heating instructions. Alternatively, consider using it as a syrup or sauce instead.
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).