Few things are as delightful as homemade jelly, especially when it’s made from wild, foraged fruits. This beach plum jelly recipe is a true gem from the shores of the Northeast, capturing the tangy, sweet essence of summer in every jar. With its vibrant color and luscious flavor, it’s perfect for those who crave something unique and delicious. Whether you spread it on a slice of toast or pair it with a sharp cheese, this jelly will take your taste buds on a journey.
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.
- 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.
Recipe Variants
- Spiced Beach Plum Jelly: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves to the juice for a warm, spiced twist on the classic recipe.
- Low-Sugar Beach Plum Jelly: Replace half the sugar with a low-calorie sweetener suitable for canning, and use low-sugar pectin to ensure a proper set.
FAQ
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.
Making your own beach plum jelly at home is not just about the delicious end product; it’s also about preserving a tradition. The bright, tart flavor and stunning color of this jelly are a perfect way to celebrate the bounty of the season. So grab some plums and enjoy a taste of summer with every bite!
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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