Muscadine Jelly Recipe recipe photo - Muscadine Jelly Recipe by Jan

Muscadine Jelly Recipe

Published: January 4, 2025 Prep Time: About 30 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: About 55 minutes Serves: 6 Difficulty: Medium Category: Preserves Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 4 cups muscadine grapes
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 package (1.75 oz) powdered pectin
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon butter
  • 6 half-pint canning jars with lids and rings

Instructions

  1. Wash and stem the muscadine grapes.
  2. In a large pot, combine grapes and water.
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Mash the grapes with a potato masher to release juices.
  5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing to extract all juice.
  6. Measure 3 cups of grape juice and return to the pot.
  7. Add pectin and butter, stirring to combine.
  8. Bring to a full rolling boil over high heat.
  9. Add sugar all at once and return to a full rolling boil.
  10. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  11. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.
  12. Ladle hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
  13. Wipe jar rims and apply lids and rings.
  14. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
  15. Remove from water and let cool completely before storing.

Special Notes

This traditional muscadine jelly recipe captures the unique flavor of these native Southern grapes. Muscadines have a thick skin and large seeds, so the straining step is essential for a smooth jelly. The pectin ensures the jelly sets properly, while the butter helps reduce foaming. This jelly is perfect for spreading on biscuits, toast, or using as a glaze for meats. The jelly will keep for up to 1 year when properly canned and stored. Muscadines are only available in late summer and early fall, so this is a seasonal treat. The jelly pairs beautifully with cheese and crackers or can be used in baking recipes.