Grape Jelly Low Sugar Canning Recipe

Today, we’re diving into a delightful homemade treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family: Concord Grape Jelly! This recipe is pectin-free, allowing the natural sweetness and flavor of the grapes to shine through. It’s the ultimate gift for those who cherish the taste of classic preserves and will definitely add a touch of nostalgia to your breakfast table. Let’s get started on making this delicious jelly!

Step into Sweetness with Concord Grape Jelly

This Concord Grape Jelly is not only a fantastic spread for your morning toast, but it also makes for an exquisite addition to any cheese platter. Let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients:

2 cups Concord grapes, washed and stems removed
1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 cup water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Start by placing the fresh Concord grapes in a medium-sized pot. Add the water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to break down the grapes and release their juices.
After the grapes have softened, remove the pot from heat. You will need to strain the mixture to separate the grape skins and seeds from the juice. Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth for this process, pressing down on the solids to extract as much juice as possible.
Return the strained juice to the pot and add the sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, continue to cook for about 5-10 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for around 220°F, which is the point where jellies will set.
To test for doneness, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready to jar!
Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a little headspace. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature. If you want to preserve them long-term, process them in a hot water bath for 5-10 minutes.
Once cooled, store your homemade Concord Grape Jelly in the refrigerator or in a cool, dark pantry for later enjoyment!

Now that you have your own batch of Concord Grape Jelly, enjoy it on warm buttery toast, paired with your favorite cheese, or even as a sweet filling in desserts. It’s the perfect way to savor the vibrant flavor of Concord grapes throughout the year!