prickly pear cactus jelly recipe
The Best prickly pear cactus jelly recipe
I love making prickly pear cactus jelly. It is one of those recipes that always gets people talking when I bring it out. My kids think the bright pink color is so fun, and my husband loves spreading it on his morning toast. It is a perfect recipe for using up fresh cactus fruit from the farmers market, and it makes a great gift for neighbors and friends. Plus, prickly pears are full of antioxidants and fiber, so I feel good about serving this to my family. It is a simple way to add something special to breakfast or a cheese board.
Prickly Pear Cactus Jelly
This homemade jelly is made from fresh prickly pear cactus fruit. It has a sweet and slightly tart flavor with a beautiful deep pink color.
🥘Ingredients
For the Jelly
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Prickly Pear Cactus Jelly Works
This prickly pear cactus jelly is always a good idea for any occasion. It works well for family gatherings because it adds a pop of color and a unique flavor that everyone loves. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Prickly Pear Cactus Jelly
1. Do I need to remove the seeds from the prickly pears?
No, you do not need to remove the seeds before cooking. The seeds are hard and will be strained out along with the pulp when you make the juice. Just crush the fruit and simmer it, then strain everything through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
2. Can I use bottled prickly pear juice instead of fresh fruit?
Yes, you can use bottled prickly pear juice if fresh fruit is not available. Just make sure it is 100% pure juice with no added sugar. You will need 4 cups of juice to follow this recipe.
3. How long does this jelly last?
When properly canned in a boiling water bath, the jelly will last up to 1 year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use within 3 months.
4. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the sugar to 3 cups, but the jelly may be softer and not set as firmly. For a sugar free version, you need to use a special low sugar pectin and follow the instructions on that package.
5. Why is my jelly not setting?
If your jelly is runny, it may not have been boiled long enough or the pectin may be old. Make sure you bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, and boil for exactly 1 minute. Also check that your pectin is not expired.
