How to make lilac Jelly from Garden flowers

Spring brings vibrant flowers and refreshing scents, and one of the standout blooms is the lilac. Not only is this flower beautiful to look at, but it can also be transformed into something scrumptious: lilac jelly! This unique jelly offers a floral flavor that’s subtle and sweet, making it an excellent addition to your brunch spread or a heartfelt gift. Ready to capture spring in a jar? Follow these simple steps to make and can lilac jelly!

Why Lilac Jelly?

Lilac jelly is has light floral notes that create a delightful flavor that complements a variety of foods—think toast, pastries, and even cheese platters. Studies have shown that floral flavors can enhance the overall enjoyment of a meal, making lilac jelly a creative addition to your culinary repertoire.

To get started, gather fresh lilacs and a few other key ingredients.

Gathering Your Ingredients

1. Fresh Lilacs

When selecting lilacs, pick clusters that are full and vibrant. Look for blooms that are deep purple or white, with no wilting. For the best flavor and aroma, harvest lilacs on a sunny morning after the dew has dried. This ensures the flowers are fresh and fragrant.

2. Additional Ingredients

Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• 2 cups lilac flowers (loosely measured)

• 2 1/2 cups water

• 1/4 cup lemon juice

• 6 tablespoons pectin

• 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional)

• 3 cups granulated sugar

  
  

With your ingredients ready, it's time to make the jelly!

Making the Lilac Jelly

Step 1: Prepare the Lilacs

Remove the lilac petals from the stems carefully. If any of the green portion is included it will add a bitterness to the jam that is undesirable.

Step 2: Boil the jelly

In a large pot, combine the water, juice, pectin and butter. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

In the same pot, add the sugar and lilacs. Stir these ingredients together to mix well. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Allow it to boil vigorously for exactly one minute.

Canning the Jelly

Now that your lilac jelly is ready, it's time to preserve it!

Step 4: Fill the Jars

While the jelly is still hot, carefully pour it into half pint canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. This helps ensure a proper seal.

Step 5: Process the Jars

Use a clean cloth to wipe the rims of the jars to remove any residue. Place lids and bands on until they are finger tip tight.

Step 6: Water Bath Canning

Fill a boiling water bath with enough hot water to cover the jars by 1-2 inches. Process the jars for 10 minutes if at sea level. Remember to adjust the processing time if you live above 1000 feet in altitude. Once processed, remove the lid, turn off the heat and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Carefully remove the jars and let them cool on a heat resistant surface.

Step 7: Storing Your Lilac Jelly

After the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it pops back up, the jar did not seal properly. Store properly sealed jars in a cool, dry, dark location. When canned correctly, lilac jelly can last up to 3 years before the nutritional value begins to decrease.

Enjoying Your Lilac Jelly

Now comes the best part—enjoying your homemade lilac jelly! Spread it over a warm scone or spoon it onto vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat. You can also use it as a glaze over grilled chicken for a delightful, tangy finish. The floral taste adds a unique twist to any dish, making every bite special.

Wrapping Up

Making lilac jelly is more than just cooking; it's about capturing the spirit of spring and savoring it all year long. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a sweet, floral treat that will brighten your table and make delightful gifts. So gather those lilacs and start your jelly-making adventure!

Feel free to share your own lilac jelly-making experiences and any tips you have in the comments below! Happy canning!