If you’ve ever wandered the sandy shores of the Northeast during late summer, you might have spotted the vibrant little fruits that inspire this Beach Plum Jelly Recipe. These tiny wild plums are a true treasure, bursting with a sweet-tart flavor that’s unlike anything else. Every time I make beach plum jelly, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood vacations, barefoot on the beach with the salty air swirling around me.
This Beach Plum Jelly Recipe captures the magic of those seaside days and turns it into something you can enjoy year-round. Whether you’re looking for a homemade gift idea, a special spread for your morning toast, or just a fun kitchen project, this jelly fits the bill perfectly. It’s not only a great way to use up a harvest of beach plums but also a beautiful, jewel-toned treat that brightens up any table.
Table of contents
Why This Beach Plum Jelly Recipe Works
What makes this Beach Plum Jelly Recipe truly shine is its simplicity and authenticity. Beach plums naturally have the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, which means you don’t have to add much to create a fantastic jelly. The unique, slightly floral notes of the fruit come through without being overwhelmed by sugar or additives. Plus, making jelly at home allows you to control the texture and sweetness level to suit your taste.
Another reason this recipe stands out? It’s incredibly versatile. You can make it with or without added pectin, depending on how firm you like your jelly. You can also adjust the sugar if you prefer a more naturally tart flavor. Plus, if you can’t find beach plums locally, I’ll share a few ways to substitute or blend other fruits to get close to the original flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a first-time jelly maker, you’ll find this recipe approachable, rewarding, and absolutely delicious.
Recipe Card
Beach Plum Jelly Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium6
servings30
minutes1
hour45
kcalThis beach plum jelly recipe captures the unique tangy-sweet flavor of wild beach plums. Perfect for spreading on toast, serving with cheese, or gifting, this jelly is a burst of summer in a jar!
Ingredients
4 lbs beach plums, washed and stemmed
4 cups water
7 cups granulated sugar
1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered pectin
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Prepare the Plums:
Place beach plums in a large pot and add water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the plums soften and burst, stirring occasionally. - Extract the Juice:
Pour the mixture through a jelly bag or a fine-mesh strainer to collect the juice. Let it drain naturally for at least an hour. Do not press or squeeze the bag, as it may result in cloudy jelly. - Cook the Jelly:
Measure out 5 cups of the extracted juice and pour it into a clean pot. Add the lemon juice and pectin, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. - Add Sugar & Boil:
Quickly add the sugar, stirring constantly. Return to a rolling boil and let it boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and skim off any foam. - Jar the Jelly:
Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims, apply lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
Notes
- Storing: Unopened jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. Once opened, keep in the refrigerator and use within 3 weeks.
- Yield: Yield may vary slightly based on the juice extracted from your plums.
Tips for the perfect Beach Plum Jelly Recipe
- Choose Ripe Plums: Ripe beach plums yield the best flavor. Look for plums that are firm but slightly soft to the touch.
- Skim off foam carefully: Skimming the foam off the top while the jelly cooks will give you a crystal-clear finish and a prettier final product.
- Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot: This helps the jelly cook evenly and prevents scorching, which can give the jelly a burnt taste.
- Test for Set: To check if the jelly will set, spoon a little onto a cold plate and place it in the freezer for 1 minute. If it wrinkles when you push it, it’s ready.
- Use Powdered Pectin: This plum jelly recipe with pectin ensures a proper set, so don’t skip this ingredient.
Fun Twists: Variants of the Beach Plum Jelly Recipe
Beach Plum and Raspberry Jelly
Blending beach plums with raspberries results in a beautiful, deep ruby color and an added layer of tart sweetness. Use half beach plums and half raspberries, cooking them down together before straining. The natural tartness of the raspberries complements the unique flavor of beach plums perfectly.
Spiced Beach Plum Jelly
If you love cozy, warm spices, you’ll adore this variant. Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, and a star anise to the pot while boiling your beach plums. The spices infuse into the juice subtly, offering a comforting, fall-inspired twist on the traditional Beach Plum Jelly Recipe.
Lemon Beach Plum Jelly
For an extra bright and zesty flavor, add fresh lemon zest and a few tablespoons of lemon juice to your beach plum mixture. This variant is especially refreshing in the summertime and pairs wonderfully with scones or as a glaze for roasted chicken.
Honey-Sweetened Beach Plum Jelly
Swap out some or all of the sugar for raw honey. Honey brings a rich, floral undertone that enhances the beach plums’ natural earthiness. Be aware that using honey may slightly change the texture, so a little extra pectin might be necessary for a firm set.
Beach Plum and Mint Jelly
Infuse the cooking liquid with a handful of fresh mint leaves for a crisp, refreshing flavor that’s unlike anything else. Strain the mint out with the fruit pulp for a jelly that’s perfect alongside lamb or as a unique spread on your summer charcuterie board.
FAQs
Beach plums are small, wild plums native to the Northeastern coast of the United States. They have a tart flavor that makes them perfect for jellies and preserves.
Yes, you can substitute with regular plums, but the flavor will be different. You may need to adjust the sugar level to achieve the desired sweetness.
You can test the set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and letting it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
If your jelly hasn’t set after 24 hours, you can recook it. Add more pectin and bring it back to a rolling boil for 1 minute.
Properly canned and sealed jars can be stored at room temperature for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 weeks.
Closing Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade jams and jellies, and this Beach Plum Jelly is no exception. Its vibrant color, unique flavor, and versatility make it the perfect addition to your pantry or a thoughtful gift for friends and family. I love how it transports me to the coast with each bite, offering a sweet yet tart experience that pairs wonderfully with everything from toast to meats. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a first-timer, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
To add more options of spreads in your breakfast, check out the recipe of the Peach Jam Recipe and the Pear Butter Crock Pot Recipe!
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