Description
Dreamsicle Jelly is a delightful homemade citrus spread that captures the nostalgic flavor of the classic orange creamsicle. Made with fresh orange juice, sugar, and fruit pectin, this jelly has a perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a hint of vanilla to enhance its creamy notes. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast toast, desserts, or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Jelly Base
- 4 cups orange juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 cup water
Flavoring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to enhance citrus flavor)
- 1/4 tsp citric acid (optional, for extra tartness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, pour in the orange juice, sugar, and fruit pectin. Stir thoroughly until the pectin is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth mixture ready for cooking.
- Boil the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
- Cook Briefly at Boil: Once a rolling boil is reached, maintain the boil for about 1 to 2 minutes, which activates the pectin and helps the jelly set properly.
- Add Flavorings: Remove from heat momentarily and stir in the vanilla extract. If using, also add the lemon juice and citric acid to enhance the citrus tang and depth of flavor.
- Test Jelly Set: Place a spoonful of jelly on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it to check for wrinkles and firmness, confirming the jelly is ready.
- Jar the Jelly: Carefully pour the hot jelly into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving approximately 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal jars immediately with lids to preserve freshness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 12 hours to let the jelly fully set before use.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest, freshest flavor, or high-quality bottled juice if preferred.
- If you prefer a less sweet jelly, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but pectin setting may be affected.
- The optional lemon juice and citric acid enhance the tartness and balance sweetness but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Sterilize jars by boiling or using a dishwasher hot cycle to prevent spoilage.
- Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks for best quality.
- This jelly freezes well if you want to store it longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
