Spiced Apple Jelly Delight

Apple or Crabapple Jelly Recipe

Prep Time: 55 minutes | Cook Time: 13 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour and 8 minutes

If you’re yearning for a delightful jelly that encapsulates the essence of apples or crabapples, this recipe is your ticket to fruity perfection. Crafted with love and precision, this Apple or Crabapple Jelly is a testament to the joy of homemade goodies.

Ingredients:

• 15 pounds of tart apples
• Water
• 1 1/2 cups of sugar
• Cloves (for that hint of spice)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples:

   • Begin by thoroughly washing 15 pounds of tart apples, ensuring they’re pristine and ready for transformation. No need to peel them; the skins add character.
   • Quarter the apples, allowing the natural flavors to meld during the cooking process.

2. Simmer to Softness:

   • In a preserving pan, place the quartered apples and just cover them with cold water. Simmer gently until the apples become soft and tender, releasing their succulent juices.

3. Drain and Extract:

   • Drain the softened apples through a jelly bag, allowing the juices to flow freely. It’s a gentle process; avoid forcing the juice through to maintain the clarity of the jelly.

4. Boil the Liquid Gold:

   • Measure out 32 fluid ounces of the extracted juice into a 12-quart pan. Bring it to a rolling boil for 5 minutes, allowing the essence of the apples to concentrate.

5. Sweeten the Deal:

   • Add 1 1/2 cups of sugar to the boiling juice. Continue the vigorous boil for an additional 5 to 8 minutes or until a droplet of the mixture jells on a cold plate. This is where the magic happens.

6. Jar and Seal:

   • Pour this heavenly concoction into hot, clean jars, sealing in the goodness. Each jar becomes a treasure trove of apple or crabapple bliss.

7. Repeat the Ritual:

   • Repeat the process, cooking 32 fluid ounces at a time, until every drop of that ambrosial juice has been used.

8. Bonus Creation – Apple Cheese:

   • Don’t let the pulp go to waste! Utilize it to craft a delectable apple cheese, ensuring nothing goes unused in your kitchen adventure.

9. Mint Apple Jelly (Optional Twist):

   • For those seeking an extra layer of flavor, consider the Mint Apple Jelly variation. Cook a few sprigs of fresh mint with the apples during the juice extraction process.
   • If fresh mint is elusive, a couple of drops of mint sauce can be a worthy substitute. Add a hint of green food coloring for visual appeal, and a few drops of mint sauce just before pouring into the jars. Exercise caution to strike the perfect balance – too much can overpower the delicate apple notes.

10. Spiced Apple Jelly (Another Optional Twist):

    • Embrace the warmth of spiced delight with the Spiced Apple Jelly. Tie a few whole cloves in a piece of muslin and drop them into the juice at the beginning of the cooking journey.
    • Remove the cloves only when the jelly is ready to be poured into the jars. This infusion adds a nuanced spiciness that elevates the jelly to a whole new level.

Serve your Apple or Crabapple Jelly on toast, pastries, or use it as a heavenly glaze for meats. This recipe yields approximately 30 1/2-pint jars, making it perfect for sharing the goodness with friends and family. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!