Apple Cider Jelly

Nothing says cozy fall vibes quite like a jar of homemade Apple Cider Jelly. This delightful spread captures the essence of autumn in a sweet and tangy form, perfect for slathering on toast, biscuits, or using as a glaze for meats. Making your own apple cider jelly is easier than you might think and allows you to enjoy the flavors of the season in a whole new way.

**Apple Cider Jelly**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 gallon of apple cider
– 2 cups of sugar
– 1/4 cup of lemon juice
– 1 packet of powdered fruit pectin

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Cider:** In a large pot, pour the apple cider and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced by half. This will intensify the flavors of the cider.

2. **Add Sugar and Lemon Juice:** Once the cider has reduced, stir in the sugar and lemon juice. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The sugar will help thicken the jelly, while the lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy note.

3. **Incorporate Pectin:** After 30 minutes, sprinkle the powdered fruit pectin over the cider mixture while continuously stirring. Let the mixture boil for an additional 2 minutes to activate the pectin, which will help the jelly set properly.

4. **Test for Doneness:** To check if the jelly is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and tilt the plate. If the jelly wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s done. If it’s still too runny, continue cooking and retest every few minutes until the desired consistency is reached.

5. **Can the Jelly:** Once the jelly has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal the jars with lids, and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.

6. **Cool and Store:** After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath using canning tongs and place them on a towel-lined surface to cool. As they cool, you may hear the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing. Once completely cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Cider Jelly on freshly baked bread, scones, or even as a glaze for roasted meats. This versatile jelly makes a lovely gift for friends and family, capturing the essence of fall in a jar. Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or cloves for a unique twist on this classic recipe. Happy jelly-making!