Homemade jelly

Photo provided by Pexels

Preserve the vibrant flavors of your favorite fruits with homemade jelly! Properly stored, this sweet spread can grace your toast and desserts for extended periods, offering a taste of summer year-round.

Storage Time

Unopened, properly processed jars can last 1-2 years in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, homemade jelly is best enjoyed within 3-4 weeks when refrigerated.

Temperature

Store unopened jars in a cool, dark pantry (ideally 10-18°C or 50-65°F). Refrigerate opened jars at 0–4°C (32–40°F).

Freezing

Homemade jelly can be frozen to extend its shelf life significantly. For best quality, freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before consuming. While freezing is safe, some slight texture changes might occur upon thawing, though the flavor generally remains excellent.

Signs of Spoilage

• Mold growth on the surface (fuzzy or discolored patches)
• Off-putting or fermented smell
• Unusual bubbling or effervescence in the jar
• Significant separation of liquid and solids that cannot be stirred back together