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Prickly Pear Cactus Jelly

Prickly Pear Cactus Jelly: A Sweet Southwest Surprise

Prickly Pear Cactus Jelly is a vibrant, sweet-tangy preserve that adds a unique twist to your breakfast and charcuterie boards.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Jelly Base
  • 4 cups prickly pear puree Use ripe and unblemished pears
  • 2 cups sugar Adjust for lower sugar version
  • 1/4 cups lemon juice Freshly squeezed
  • 1 package low-sugar pectin Crucial for jelly consistency
Serving Suggestions
  • 12 pieces warm biscuits Delightful pairing
  • 1 board charcuterie board accents For colorful and flavorful touch

Equipment

  • Water Bath Canner
  • deep stock pot
  • clean glass jars
  • ladle
  • jar tongs

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Sterilize your jars in a water bath canner at 200°F for 10 minutes.
  2. Wear gloves, rinse prickly pears, cut in half, scoop pulp; blend until smooth.
  3. Mix prickly pear puree, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin in a stock pot.
  4. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently.
  5. Fill sterilized jars with jelly, leaving ½ inch headspace; clean rims and secure lids.
  6. Process jars in the water bath for 10 minutes; then remove and cool.
  7. Check seals after cooling; store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 13gSugar: 12gVitamin C: 10mg

Notes

Use gloves when handling prickly pears. Ensure fruit is ripe and measure ingredients carefully for best results.

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