There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade grape jam, bursting with sweet, fruity flavor. Making your own jam not only allows you to control the ingredients, but it also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or even as a topping for desserts, this simple recipe will have you savoring the taste of summer all year long.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of fresh grapes ( Concord or any sweet variety)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grapes:
- Rinse the grapes thoroughly and remove the stems. In a large pot, crush the grapes using a potato masher or fork to release their juices.
- Cook the Grapes:
- Place the crushed grapes over medium heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grapes are soft and the juices are released.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another pot to separate the juice from the skins and seeds. Press down to extract as much juice as possible.
- Make the Jam:
- Return the strained juice to the pot. Add the sugar, lemon juice, and pectin. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
- Boil and Thicken:
- Once boiling, continue to cook for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches your desired thickness. You can test the consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate and letting it sit for a minute; run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it’s ready.
- Add Vanilla (Optional):
- If using, stir in the vanilla extract just before removing the pot from heat.
- Jar and Store:
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims with a clean cloth and seal with lids. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating or processing for long-term storage.
Enjoying Your Jam
Once your grape jam has cooled, spread it generously on your favorite bread, pancakes, or use it as a filling for pastries. Store any unused jam in the refrigerator for up to a month, or process the jars for longer shelf life.
Homemade grape jam is a delightful way to preserve the essence of grapes, turning them into a sweet treat you can enjoy any time!
