12 Delicious Apple Jelly Amazing Recipes
Venture into the sweet, tangy world of apple jelly with our roundup of 12 delicious recipes that promise to delight your taste buds! Whether you’re looking to preserve the essence of fall or simply craving a homemade spread that elevates your breakfast toast, these recipes are your ticket to jelly-making success. Dive in and discover your next kitchen adventure!
Homemade Apple Jelly

Perhaps there’s no simpler pleasure than spreading a spoonful of homemade apple jelly on warm toast, its sweetness a quiet reminder of autumn’s bounty. This recipe, with its minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, invites you to slow down and savor the process.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
- Water – 1 cup
Instructions
- Combine chopped apples and water in a large pot over medium heat. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until apples are soft.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract juice. Discard solids.
- Measure 3 cups of apple juice into a clean pot. Add sugar and lemon juice, stirring to dissolve.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high. Cook until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, about 25 minutes.
- Skim off any foam from the surface with a spoon. Tip: A small pat of butter added during boiling can reduce foam.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims with a damp cloth, then seal with lids.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a good seal. Tip: Let jars cool undisturbed for 24 hours to set properly.
After setting, the jelly will have a clear, vibrant hue and a firm yet spreadable texture. Try it swirled into yogurt or as a glaze for roasted meats to explore its versatility.
Spiced Apple Jelly

There’s something deeply comforting about the process of making spiced apple jelly, a reminder of how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. The warmth of the spices mingling with the sweet, tart apples creates a preserve that’s both nostalgic and wonderfully versatile.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
- Cinnamon – 1 tsp
- Cloves – ½ tsp
- Water – 1 cup
Instructions
- Combine apples and water in a large pot over medium heat. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until apples are soft.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract juice. Discard solids.
- Measure 3 cups of apple juice into a clean pot. Tip: For clearer jelly, avoid pressing too hard on the solids.
- Add sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cloves to the pot. Stir over low heat until sugar dissolves.
- Increase heat to high and bring to a rolling boil. Boil, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, about 10 minutes. Tip: Watch for the jelly to sheet off a spoon for doneness.
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Tip: A small pat of butter can help reduce foam.
- Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Seal and process in a water bath for 10 minutes if storing long-term.
Zesty and warmly spiced, this jelly sets into a soft, spreadable consistency that’s perfect on toast or as a glaze for roasted meats. The balance of sweet and tart, with a hint of spice, makes it a standout in any pantry.
Cinnamon Apple Jelly

Moments like these, when the morning light filters through the kitchen window, remind me of the simple joys in life, like the sweet, spiced aroma of cinnamon apple jelly simmering on the stove.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, peeled and chopped
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
- Cinnamon sticks – 2
- Water – 1 cup
Instructions
- Combine apples, water, and cinnamon sticks in a large pot over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft.
- Remove from heat. Discard cinnamon sticks. Mash the apples with a potato masher or blend for a smoother jelly.
- Strain the apple mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot, pressing to extract as much juice as possible. Tip: For clearer jelly, avoid squeezing the pulp too hard.
- Add sugar and lemon juice to the apple juice. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
- Increase heat to high and bring to a rolling boil. Boil, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, about 10-15 minutes. Tip: Watch for the jelly to sheet off a spoon for doneness if you don’t have a thermometer.
- Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with a spoon. Let cool slightly before pouring into sterilized jars. Tip: For an extra cinnamon flavor, add a small stick to each jar before sealing.
Every spoonful of this jelly is a burst of autumn, with its velvety texture and the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Try swirling it into oatmeal or spreading it on warm, buttered toast for a comforting treat.
Apple Jelly with Mint

Now, as the morning light filters through the kitchen window, there’s something deeply comforting about the thought of making apple jelly with mint. It’s a simple pleasure, a way to capture the essence of summer in a jar, with the crispness of apples and the freshness of mint coming together in a sweet, translucent preserve.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Sugar – 2 cups
- Water – 1 cup
- Fresh mint leaves – ¼ cup, packed
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Combine chopped apples, sugar, and water in a large pot over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the fresh mint leaves and lemon juice to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the mint to infuse its flavor into the jelly.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Let the mixture cool for 5 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing gently to extract all the liquid.
- Return the strained liquid to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to preserve.
Perhaps what makes this apple jelly with mint so special is its delicate balance of flavors—sweet yet refreshing, with a texture that’s smooth and slightly firm. Serve it alongside sharp cheeses or spread it on warm toast for a morning treat that feels like a gentle embrace.
Apple Jelly Jam

Wandering through the orchard of memories, the simple joy of making apple jelly jam brings a warmth that’s both comforting and nostalgic. It’s a recipe that whispers of autumn leaves and the sweet, tangy embrace of ripe apples.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 lbs
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
- Water – 1 cup
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Core and chop the apples into small pieces, leaving the skin on for natural pectin.
- In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the apples are soft, mash them gently with a potato masher to release more juice.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing lightly to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.
- Return the strained apple juice to the pot, add sugar, and stir until dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the jam reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface with a spoon for a clearer jam.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Seal with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to preserve.
Magical in its simplicity, this apple jelly jam sets into a glossy, tender spread with a balance of sweetness and tartness. Try it swirled into yogurt or as a delicate glaze over morning toast for a touch of homemade elegance.
Apple Jelly with Vanilla

Under the soft glow of the morning light, there’s something deeply comforting about the process of making apple jelly with vanilla. It’s a simple pleasure, a way to capture the essence of autumn in a jar, with each step feeling like a quiet meditation.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 lbs
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Water – 1 cup
- Vanilla bean – 1
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Cut the apples into quarters, leaving the skins and cores intact for natural pectin.
- Place the apple quarters in a large pot and add the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.
- Return the apple juice to the pot and add the sugar. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the pot, then add the pod.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the vanilla bean pod and skim off any foam from the surface of the jelly.
- Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
The jelly sets into a clear, shimmering preserve with the subtle warmth of vanilla. Try spreading it on warm toast or swirling it into yogurt for a touch of sweetness that feels like a hug in a spoon.
Apple Jelly with Cinnamon Sticks

Yesterday, as the golden light of late afternoon spilled into the kitchen, I found myself drawn to the simple, comforting process of making apple jelly with cinnamon sticks. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm embrace, a sweet reminder of autumn’s approach.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Sugar – 2 cups
- Water – 1 cup
- Cinnamon sticks – 2
Instructions
- Combine chopped apples, sugar, and water in a large pot over medium heat. Stir gently to mix.
- Add cinnamon sticks to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: The apples should become very soft and the liquid slightly thickened.
- Remove the pot from heat. Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes to handle safely.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing gently on the apples to extract all the juice. Discard the solids. Tip: For clearer jelly, avoid pressing too hard.
- Return the strained liquid to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cook for another 15 minutes or until the liquid reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer. Tip: This temperature ensures the jelly will set properly.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Seal immediately.
Bright and fragrant, this apple jelly carries the subtle warmth of cinnamon, perfect for spreading on morning toast or stirring into oatmeal. Its smooth texture and vibrant flavor make it a delightful addition to any pantry.
Apple Jelly with Lavender

Amidst the quiet of the morning, the thought of making something sweet and fragrant lingers, like the soft touch of lavender in a summer breeze. This apple jelly, infused with the delicate essence of lavender, is a simple yet profound way to capture the essence of the season in a jar.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 lbs
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
- Dried lavender – 1 tbsp
- Water – 4 cups
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly, then cut them into quarters without peeling or coring.
- Place the apple quarters in a large pot, add water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, until the apples are completely soft.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Let it drip overnight for the clearest jelly.
- Measure the apple juice and return it to the pot. For every cup of juice, add 3/4 cup of sugar.
- Add lemon juice and dried lavender to the pot, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, which should take about 20 minutes. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute, then pour into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Zesty and floral, this jelly sets into a soft, spreadable consistency with a balance of sweet and tart. Try it on warm toast or as a glaze for roasted meats to add a surprising twist to your meals.
Apple Jelly with Rosemary

Just as the first light of dawn gently touches the kitchen counter, there’s something profoundly comforting about the process of making apple jelly with rosemary. It’s a simple yet elegant preserve that captures the essence of autumn in a jar, blending the sweetness of apples with the earthy aroma of rosemary.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Sugar – 2 cups
- Rosemary – 2 sprigs
- Water – 1 cup
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Combine chopped apples, water, and rosemary sprigs in a large pot over medium heat. Tip: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are completely soft.
- Remove the pot from heat. Discard the rosemary sprigs. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Tip: For clearer jelly, avoid pressing too hard on the apple solids.
- Add sugar and lemon juice to the strained apple juice. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Return the pot to medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer. Tip: The jelly is ready when a small amount dropped on a cold plate wrinkles when pushed with a finger.
- Remove from heat. Skim off any foam from the surface. Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Seal the jars and let cool at room temperature.
With its velvety texture and a hint of rosemary’s piney notes, this apple jelly is a delightful spread on morning toast or a sophisticated glaze for roasted meats. The balance of sweet and herbal flavors makes it a versatile addition to any pantry.
Apple Jelly with Thyme

Evenings like these call for something sweet yet subtly herbal, a preserve that captures the essence of both garden and orchard. Apple jelly with thyme is just that—a delicate balance of fruit and herb, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 lbs
- Water – 4 cups
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
- Fresh thyme – 6 sprigs
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly, then chop them into quarters without peeling or coring.
- In a large pot, combine the chopped apples and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.
- Measure the apple juice; you should have about 4 cups. If not, add water to reach this amount.
- Return the juice to the pot. Add sugar, lemon juice, and thyme sprigs. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Cook until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the thyme sprigs and skim off any foam from the surface.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Mellow and fragrant, this jelly sets to a soft, spreadable consistency with a bright apple flavor underscored by thyme’s earthy notes. Try it dolloped on warm biscuits or as a glaze for roasted meats.
Apple Jelly with Cardamom

Under the soft glow of the morning light, there’s something deeply comforting about the process of making apple jelly with cardamom. It’s a simple pleasure, turning the crispness of apples into something sweet and spiced, a jar of warmth to savor slowly.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Water – 2 cups
- Sugar – 3 cups
- Cardamom pods – 6, crushed
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chopped apples and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, until apples are soft.
- Strain the apple mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.
- Return the apple juice to the pot. Add sugar, crushed cardamom pods, and lemon juice. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Cook until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Let the jelly cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace.
- Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure preservation. Remove and let cool completely before storing.
Vibrant with the warmth of cardamom, this jelly sets into a soft, spreadable consistency. Try it swirled into yogurt or as a glaze for roasted meats, where its sweet and spicy notes can truly shine.
Apple Jelly with Star Anise

Lingering in the quiet of the morning, the thought of making something sweet and spiced feels like a gentle embrace. This apple jelly, subtly perfumed with star anise, is a simple pleasure that whispers of autumn’s approach.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 cups, chopped
- Water – 2 cups
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Star anise – 2 whole pods
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Combine chopped apples and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the apple mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.
- Return the apple juice to the pot. Add sugar, star anise, and lemon juice. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, or until the jelly reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the star anise pods. Pour the jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Seal and let cool to room temperature.
Delicate and fragrant, this jelly captures the essence of apples with a hint of spice. Spread it on warm toast or stir into oatmeal for a comforting start to the day.
Conclusion
Overwhelmed by the variety? These 12 apple jelly recipes offer something for every taste and occasion, from classic to creative twists. We hope you’re inspired to try one (or more!) and share your kitchen adventures with us. Don’t forget to comment with your favorite and spread the joy by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!