How to Create Homemade Canned Cranberry Jelly- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Prepare Canned Cranberry Jelly

Canning cranberry jelly is a delightful way to preserve the vibrant flavors of this tart and tangy fruit. Not only does it make a perfect spread for toast or bagels, but it also adds a delightful touch to a variety of recipes. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing canned cranberry jelly, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious treat all year round.

Ingredients

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

– 4 cups fresh cranberries
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup orange juice (optional, for added flavor)

Equipment

To prepare canned cranberry jelly, you will need the following equipment:

– A large pot
– A fine-mesh strainer
– A wooden spoon
– A ladle
– Canning jars and lids
– A canning jar funnel
– A pot or canner for boiling water bath

Instructions

1. Prepare the cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
2. Cook the cranberries: In a large pot, combine the cranberries, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
3. Simmer the mixture: Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Strain the mixture: Using a fine-mesh strainer, strain the cooked cranberries, pressing on them with the back of a wooden spoon to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the cranberry skins.
5. Add orange juice (optional): If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, stir in the orange juice into the strained cranberry juice.
6. Prepare the jars: Wash the canning jars, lids, and funnels in hot, soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and place them in a pot of boiling water to sterilize.
7. Fill the jars: Using a ladle, fill the sterilized jars with the cranberry juice, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
8. Seal the jars: Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth, place a lid on top, and screw on the ring until finger-tight.
9. Process the jars: Place the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner. Make sure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 10 minutes.
10. Cool the jars: Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack for 12-24 hours. Check the seals by pressing on the center of the lids; if they don’t move, the jars are sealed properly.

Congratulations! You have successfully prepared canned cranberry jelly. Now you can enjoy this delightful spread throughout the year, or share it with friends and family as a thoughtful gift.