This sweet and tangy Dreamsicle Jelly combines the fresh flavors of orange juice and vanilla, creating a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for spreading on toast, or adding to desserts.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20-30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour (including processing time)
Yield:Approximately 6-8 jars, depending on the size 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups freshly squeezed orange juice 🍊
4 cups sugar 🍬
2 vanilla beans, split and scraped 🌱
1 pat of butter 🧈
1 box pectin (optional)
Instructions
Strain the Juice:
Strain the freshly squeezed orange juice through cheesecloth to remove any pulp 🧃.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large pot, combine the orange juice, sugar, butter, vanilla bean scrapings, and the split vanilla beans 🍲.
Boil:
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat 🔥.
Add Pectin (if using):
If you’re using pectin, add the box now and stir until it returns to a boil. Let it boil for exactly 1 minute ⏱️.
Without Pectin:
If skipping pectin, ensure the mixture reaches 220°F and holds that temperature for 3 minutes 🌡️.
Remove from Heat:
Remove the pot from heat ⏹️.
Remove Vanilla Beans and Ladle Jelly:
Remove the vanilla beans, then ladle the jelly into prepared jars 🍮.
Seal Jars:
Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and tighten the bands 🧼.
Process the Jars:
Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes ♨️.
Cool and Flip:
Carefully remove jars and set them on a towel-lined countertop to cool for several hours, away from drafts 🌬️. Flip the jars upside down every 10 minutes, then turn them right side up to evenly spread the vanilla specks 🔄.
Check Seals:
Once cool, check the seals. Store any unsealed jars in the fridge, and the rest in your pantry ❄️.
Notes
If you prefer a smoother jelly, use pectin for a quicker setting process.
The vanilla specks throughout the jelly give it a beautiful texture and a hint of extra vanilla flavor.