Crab Apple Jelly Recipe

crab apple jelly recipe

Crab Apple Jelly Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Crab apple jelly is a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn in a jar. Made from the tart and flavorful fruit of the crab apple tree, this jelly is perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or gifting to friends and family. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create your own batch of homemade crab apple jelly that will impress everyone who tries it.

Ingredients

– 4 lbs crab apples
– 4 cups water
– 4 cups sugar
– 1 lemon

Instructions Step by Step

1. Wash the crab apples thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves.
2. Cut the crab apples into quarters, leaving the seeds and cores intact.
3. Place the crab apples in a large pot and add the water.
4. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the crab apples are soft.
5. Mash the crab apples with a potato masher or fork to release the juices.
6. Line a colander with cheesecloth and place it over a large bowl.
7. Pour the crab apple mixture into the colander and let it drain for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Measure the crab apple juice, then pour it into a clean pot.
9. Add sugar and the juice of one lemon to the pot.
10. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar.
11. Continue boiling until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer or passes the gel test.
12. Skim any foam off the top of the jelly.
13. Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
14. Seal the jars with lids and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.

Tips

For a twist on traditional crab apple jelly, try adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during the cooking process. This will add a warm and spicy flavor to the jelly that pairs well with the tartness of the crab apples.
Store your crab apple jelly in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the jelly and use within a few weeks for the best flavor. Serve your crab apple jelly on scones, biscuits, or as a glaze for roasted meats.

In conclusion, crab apple jelly is a delicious and versatile treat that is easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a flavorful jelly that will impress your friends and family. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of homemade crab apple jelly.