Homemade Plum Jelly

Learn how to make Homemade Plum Jelly that is both sweet and tangy, perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts. This delightful jelly captures the essence of ripe plums and is ideal for various occasions, from breakfast to holiday gifts. With only a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a batch that showcases the unique flavors of plums while allowing you to customize sweetness levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses straightforward steps, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy your homemade plum jelly on bread, pancakes, or as a filling in pastries.
• Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar content based on your taste preferences or use honey for a healthier option.
• Perfect for Gifting: Share jars of this delicious jelly with family and friends—it’s a thoughtful homemade gift!
• Long Shelf Life: When properly canned, this jelly can be stored for up to six months in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Homemade Plum Jelly, gather essential tools that will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Colander
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Metal spoon
• Clean jars for storage

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Essential for boiling the plums and extracting juice efficiently.
• Colander: Helps strain the plum mixture quickly, separating juice from pulp.
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth: Provides an extra level of filtration for a clear jelly texture.

Ingredients

For this easy Homemade Plum Jelly, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 5 pounds ripe plums
• 1-1/2 cups water
• 1 (1.75 ounce) box fruit pectin
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 6-1/2 cups granulated sugar

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Homemade Plum Jelly

Step 1: Prepare the Plums

1. Slice the plums in half and remove and discard the pits. Don’t bother peeling the plums.
2. Place the halved plums into a large stockpot. Add 1-1/2 cups of water.

Step 2: Cook the Plums

1. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, cover and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Strain the Juice

1. Pour the mixture through a colander into another pot to separate juice from pulp.
2. For clearer juice, strain again using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Allow it to drain for at least 30 minutes before discarding excess fruit.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. You should have about 5-½ cups of plum juice; pour it back into your large pot.
2. Add one box of fruit pectin and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.

Step 5: Boil the Mixture

1. Bring the mixture to a hard rolling boil.

Step 6: Add Sugar

1. Stir in 6-½ cups of granulated sugar all at once.
2. Continue boiling vigorously for one minute.

Step 7: Final Steps

1. Remove from heat and skim any foam off the top with a metal spoon.
2. Ladle the hot jelly into clean jars immediately while it’s still hot.

This process will yield approximately six jars (8 oz.) of delicious homemade plum jelly that can be enjoyed within six months when stored properly in your refrigerator!

How to Serve Homemade Plum Jelly

Homemade plum jelly is a delightful addition to any meal. Its sweet and tangy flavor can enhance various dishes, making it a versatile condiment in your kitchen.

On Toast or Bread

• Spread on Toast: A classic way to enjoy homemade plum jelly is by spreading it generously on warm toast.
• Jam Sandwiches: Use plum jelly as a filling for sandwiches, paired with cream cheese or peanut butter.

With Cheese

• Cheese Platters: Serve alongside a variety of cheeses for a beautiful cheese board that balances sweetness and savory flavors.
• Cheese Pairing: Try it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delightful contrast.

In Desserts

• Drizzle over Ice Cream: Add a spoonful of plum jelly on top of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
• Fruit Tarts: Use it as a glaze for fruit tarts, adding shine and flavor to the fresh fruit topping.

As a Marinade or Glaze

• Grilling Glaze: Brush plum jelly on meats like chicken or pork while grilling for a sweet caramelized finish.
• Salad Dressing: Mix with vinegar and olive oil to create a unique salad dressing that complements bitter greens.

How to Perfect Homemade Plum Jelly

Making homemade plum jelly can be simple, but there are ways to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Bold Fruit Selection: Use ripe, high-quality plums for the best flavor. Overripe plums can affect the jelly’s texture and taste.
• Bold Pectin Usage: Always follow the pectin instructions closely; not using enough can lead to runny jelly.
• Bold Boiling Time: Ensure you bring the mixture to a hard rolling boil after adding sugar. This step is crucial for proper setting.
• Bold Foam Removal: Skimming off the foam helps achieve a clear jelly without air bubbles, improving presentation.
• Bold Jar Preparation: Sterilize jars properly before filling them with hot jelly to prevent spoilage.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Plum Jelly

Serving homemade plum jelly alongside well-chosen side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Savory Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits make an excellent base for spreading plum jelly; their buttery flavor complements the sweetness beautifully.
2. Roasted Veggies: Pairing with roasted vegetables provides a fantastic contrast, especially when seasoned with herbs.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooeyness of grilled cheese pairs well with the fruity notes of the jelly, creating an indulgent combination.
4. Pork Tenderloin: A savory pork dish glazed with homemade plum jelly adds depth and sweetness that enhances the meat’s flavor.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Sweeten up your stuffed peppers by serving them with a side of plum jelly; it offers a unique twist on this classic dish.
6. Baked Brie: Warm baked brie topped with plum jelly creates an unforgettable appetizer perfect for gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade plum jelly can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using ripe plums: Using under-ripe plums can result in a jelly that lacks flavor. Always choose fully ripe fruits for the best taste and sweetness.
• Skipping the pectin: Pectin is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Don’t omit it; make sure to follow the instructions on your fruit pectin box carefully.
• Ignoring foam removal: Leaving foam in your jelly can affect its appearance and texture. Always skim off any foam after boiling for a cleaner finish.
• Inadequate straining: Not straining the juice properly can leave bits of fruit in your jelly, affecting the final product. Use cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer for a smooth texture.
• Improper jar sterilization: Failing to sterilize jars can lead to spoilage. Ensure all jars are washed and sterilized before filling with jelly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store homemade plum jelly in clean glass jars with tight lids.
• It will keep in the fridge for up to six months, ensuring you always have delicious jelly on hand.

Freezing Homemade Plum Jelly

• You can freeze plum jelly for longer storage.
• Use freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some space at the top as jelly expands when frozen.
• Frozen jelly will maintain its quality for about one year.

Reheating Homemade Plum Jelly

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place jelly in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds, stirring each time until melted and smooth.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low flame in a small saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make homemade plum jelly without pectin?

You can use natural fruit pectin by adding apples or citrus peels along with your plums. This will help achieve the desired consistency without store-bought pectin.

Can I use less sugar when making plum jelly?

Yes! You can reduce sugar by using honey or other sweeteners. However, this may affect the gel strength and overall flavor profile.

How long does homemade plum jelly last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade plum jelly lasts up to six months. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

What is the best way to use leftover plum puree?

Leftover puree can be used in smoothies, pancakes, or even as a topping for yogurt. It’s a versatile addition!

What type of plums are best for making plum jelly?

Ripe red or purple plums are ideal for making homemade plum jelly due to their sweetness and rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

Homemade plum jelly is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can adjust sweetness levels or even experiment with different fruits. This recipe offers a delightful way to preserve summer’s bounty, so gather your ingredients and give it a try!