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