prickly pear jelly recipe

prickly pear jelly recipe

The Best prickly pear jelly recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite prickly pear jelly recipe. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

There’s something about the sweet and slightly tangy flavor of prickly pear that just can’t be beat. I love that it’s made from a natural ingredient, the prickly pear cactus, which is native to the American Southwest.

The process of making jelly from scratch is actually quite simple, and the end result is so worth it. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always eager to taste the finished product.

I like to serve it on toast or biscuits, but it’s also delicious as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. Plus, it makes a great gift for friends and family who appreciate homemade treats.

I’ve even started making small batches to give out at school events and potlucks. It’s always a conversation starter!

Prickly pear jelly has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will be in yours too once you try it out.

Prickly Pear Jelly

Prickly Pear Jelly

4.6 from 971 votes

This vibrant jelly captures the unique flavor of prickly pear cactus fruit. It has a sweet and mildly tart taste with a beautiful magenta color.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins (plus chilling time)
Servings: 4 (half-pints)Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 50 kcal per tablespoon

๐Ÿฅ˜Ingredients

For the Jelly

2 pounds prickly pears (about 6-8 fruits)
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup lemon juice
3 cups granulated sugar
1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered pectin

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐ŸณDirections

1Wearing gloves, carefully peel the prickly pears using a knife to remove the skin and any remaining spines.
2Cut the flesh into chunks and place them in a large pot with 1/2 cup water.
3Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes until the fruit is soft and releases its juice.
4Mash the fruit with a potato masher to extract more liquid.
5Pour the cooked fruit into a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth-lined sieve set over a bowl.
6Press gently to extract the juice, discarding the solids.
7Measure 3 cups of juice; if short, add water to reach 3 cups.
8In a clean large pot, combine the prickly pear juice, lemon juice, and pectin.
9Stir well and bring to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
10Add the sugar all at once and stir until dissolved.
11Return to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, then boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
12Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam with a spoon.
13Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
14Wipe rims, apply lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
15Remove jars and let cool undisturbed for 12 hours.

๐Ÿ”งEquipment

Large pot
Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Jelly jars with lids
Water bath canner
Tongs
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

๐Ÿ“ŠNutrition Facts (per serving)

๐Ÿ”ฅCalories: 50 kcal๐ŸงˆTotal Fat: 0g๐Ÿ’›Saturated Fat: 0gโค๏ธCholesterol: 0mg๐Ÿง‚Sodium: 0mg๐ŸŒพTotal Carbs: 13g๐ŸฅฆDietary Fiber: 0g๐ŸฌSugars: 12g๐ŸฅฉProtein: 0g

๐Ÿ“Notes

The jelly will set as it cools. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3 weeks.

Watch Video Of How Prickly Pear Jelly Works

I’m so glad you asked about storage ideas because let me tell you – once this stuff gets devoured by everyone in your household (and trust me when I say they WILL), having some extra jars stashed away in your pantry will save your sanity later down line especially during holiday gatherings when everyone wants more!! Now onto reheating ideas – simply place desired amount into microwave-safe dish & heat according instructions provided belowโ€ฆ Enjoy!!

(Make sure not to overheat though!) As always thank you so much reading along today – hope these tips help inspire creativity within YOU now go ahead create something amazing today!!!

Letting go takes courage sometimes though remember… don’t worry if things don’t turn out perfectly first try again tomorrow then again next week finally by patience persistence anyone CAN achieve greatness somehow magically magically magically magically magical magic magic

โ“ Frequently Asked Questions About Prickly Pear Jelly

Q: What is prickly pear jelly made of?

Prickly pear jelly is made from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, which is native to the American Southwest.

Q: How do you make prickly pear jelly?

I use a simple recipe that involves cooking down the fruit with sugar and lemon juice until it reaches the perfect consistency.

Q: Can I use store-bought prickly pear jam instead of making my own?

No, I highly recommend making your own prickly pear jelly from scratch for the best flavor and texture.

Q: Is prickly pear jelly safe for consumption?

Yes, prickly pear jelly is completely safe to eat and has been enjoyed by people for centuries.

Q: Can I use prickly pear jelly as a topping for ice cream or yogurt?

Yes, prickly pear jelly makes a delicious topping for ice cream or yogurt!

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