Description
This delightful Dreamsicle Jelly captures the nostalgic flavor of the classic orange cream treat in a luscious, sweet jelly form. Made with fresh or bottled orange juice, sugar, and fruit pectin, enriched with vanilla and a hint of lemon or citric acid for a balanced tartness, this jelly is perfect for spreading on toast or adding a burst of citrusy sweetness to desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Jelly Ingredients
- 4 cups orange juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to enhance citrus flavor)
- 1/4 tsp citric acid (optional, for extra tartness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, and fruit pectin. Stir thoroughly to help the pectin dissolve fully into the mixture.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning on the bottom of the pan.
- Cook the Jelly: Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, continue to cook it for 1 to 2 minutes while maintaining constant stirring to ensure even cooking and activation of pectin for proper setting.
- Add Flavorings: Remove from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract. If using, add lemon juice and citric acid now to enhance the citrus flavor and add tartness; mix well to distribute evenly.
- Test the Set: To check readiness, place a small spoonful of jelly onto a cold plate and let it cool for about a minute. Run your finger through it – if the jelly wrinkles and holds its shape, it is ready to be jarred.
- Jar the Jelly: Pour the hot jelly carefully into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars promptly with lids to preserve freshness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the jelly for at least 12 hours before serving to ensure full setting and flavor development.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best, freshest flavor, or bottled juice if convenience is preferred.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized before jarring to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- The optional lemon juice and citric acid help to balance sweetness and increase tartness, but can be omitted if a sweeter jelly is desired.
- Test the jelly set carefully to avoid jars of runny jelly; if it does not wrinkle when tested, cook for an additional minute and retest.
- Keep refrigerated after opening and consume within a few weeks for best quality.
