Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pounds ripe plums, any variety
- 6 cups water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 box (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
- 5 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foaming)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and pit the plums. Cut them into quarters and place them in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add the water and lemon juice.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the plums are very soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Pour the cooked plum mixture into a jelly bag or a colander lined with several layers of cheesecloth set over a bowl. Let the juice drip naturally for at least 4 hours or overnight. Do not squeeze the bag or cheesecloth, as this will make the jelly cloudy.
- Step 4: Measure 4 cups of the plum juice into a clean pot. Add the pectin, butter (if using), and cinnamon (if using). Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- Step 5: Add the sugar all at once and continue stirring constantly. Return to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down and boil hard for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and skim off any foam with a metal spoon. Immediately pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe jar rims clean, place lids and rings on jars, and process in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes (adjust time for altitude). After processing, remove jars from the canner and let cool completely. Check seals before storing.
Notes
- Store properly sealed jars of plum jelly in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year.
- If your jelly sets too firmly, a quick zap in the microwave (in a microwave-safe bowl) will soften it for easier spreading.
- Spread this vibrant plum jelly on scones with clotted cream for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Don't be tempted to squeeze the plum pulp to get more juice; patience is key for a clear and beautiful jelly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American