Easy Steps for Cooking Prickly Pear Jelly at Home

Updated
2 min read

Prickly pear jelly –Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that brings a unique and vibrant flavor to your kitchen: Prickly Pear Jelly. This jelly is not only exquisite in taste but also adds a beautiful color to your breakfast table. Let’s explore how you can make this delightful delicacy at home!

Image of Prickly Pear Jelly

Here’s a glimpse of what your finished product will look like! A beautiful, jewel-toned jelly that promises to be a feast for your eyes and your taste buds.

Prickly Pear Jelly

Ingredients for Prickly Pear Jelly

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:

  • 2 cups prickly pear juice (freshly squeezed or from bottled concentrate)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin

Instructions for Making Prickly Pear Jelly

Follow these steps to create your own delicious prickly pear jelly:

  1. Start by preparing the prickly pear juice. If using fresh fruit, carefully peel the fruit and blend it until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the juice.
  2. In a large pot, combine 2 cups of prickly pear juice, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Stir well.
  3. Next, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Add the fruit pectin and stir continuously until it is completely dissolved.
  4. Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, gradually add the sugar, continuing to stir. Bring it back to a full boil for exactly 1 minute while stirring vigorously.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on top.
  6. Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
  7. Seal the jars with lids and process them in a boiling water bath for about 5-10 minutes to ensure they are properly preserved.
  8. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, check the seals and store them in a cool, dark place.

Enjoy your homemade prickly pear jelly on toast, in sandwiches, or as a delicious topping for desserts. It’s a versatile treat that adds a touch of the exotic to everyday meals!