In the heart of summer, the kitchen transforms into a sanctuary of sweetness and sunshine. That’s when I first experienced Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY, a delightful creation that perfectly captures the joyful essence of long, sun-soaked days. This simple, yet exquisite recipe boasts just five ingredients and can be made effortlessly in the microwave, making it a quick go-to option for family gatherings or memorable homemade gifts. Not only does it bring a burst of vibrant flavor that dances between sweet and tart, but it also allows you to savor the goodness of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Imagine spreading this glorious kiwi jelly on warm, buttery toast or dolloping it atop your favorite dessert! Are you ready to dive into nostalgia and create a jar of sunshine in your home?
Why is Kiwi Jelly a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Core: This recipe requires just five ingredients, making it incredibly accessible for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
Bright, Refreshing Flavor: The blend of kiwi and lime provides a unique sweet-tart balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on toast, as a cheesecake topping, or stirred into yogurt for a fruity kick!
Quick and Easy: With a microwave method, you can whip this up in no time, saving you precious moments in the kitchen.
Perfect for Gifting: Homemade jars of jelly make heartfelt gifts, perfect for any occasion—and who doesn’t love a personal touch?
Ready to explore even more delightful recipes? Dive into my Peanut Butter Jelly or try the scrumptious Lasagna Soup New for more home-cooked goodness!
Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly Ingredients
• Get ready for a burst of flavor with these simple ingredients!
For the Jelly
- Kiwifruit – Fresh, ripe kiwis give the jelly its delicious sweetness and tang.
- Lime Juice – Fresh lime juice brightens the flavor, adding a zesty kick.
- Crushed Pineapple – A handy canned option that sweetens the mix and adds tropical aroma.
- Liquid Pectin – Crucial for helping your jelly set to perfection. Use the liquid form for easy microwave preparation.
For the Color (Optional)
- Green Food Coloring – Use sparingly to enhance the jelly’s vibrant green hue for a beautiful presentation.
With Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY, you’ll create a delightful treat that’s simple and quick to make!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and peeling 4–5 ripe kiwifruits. Carefully slice and chop the kiwis into small pieces, ensuring they’re evenly sized for better cooking. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped kiwis with one can of crushed pineapple, including its juice, and two tablespoons of fresh lime juice. Mix in a cup of sugar, stirring until well combined.
Step 2: Microwave the Mixture
Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high for 10-12 minutes. Every two minutes, pause to stir the mixture, allowing the sugar to dissolve fully. You’ll know it’s ready when it comes to a vigorous boil, bubbling and frothing. Make sure to use a sufficiently large bowl to prevent overflow during this process.
Step 3: Incorporate the Pectin
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, carefully remove it from the microwave using oven mitts. Stir in the liquid pectin, which is essential for helping Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY set beautifully. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to enhance its vibrant appearance, mixing thoroughly to achieve an even color.
Step 4: Jar the Jelly
Pour the hot kiwi jelly mixture into sanitized jars or freezer-safe containers while it’s still warm. Be cautious not to touch the hot mixture directly. Leave about half an inch of space at the top of each jar for expansion as the jelly cools. Secure the lids gently but do not tighten them too much at this stage.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature on a clean kitchen towel or cooling rack. Once cooled, let them sit undisturbed overnight, but no longer than 24 hours, to achieve the perfect jelly consistency. This resting period is crucial for the jelly to thicken properly, resulting in a delightful spread for your toast.
Step 6: Store the Jelly
After the resting period, place the cooled jars in the refrigerator if you plan to use them within a month. For longer storage, transfer them to the freezer. Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY can be enjoyed fresh or frozen, maintaining its delightful flavor and texture!
What to Serve with Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly
Imagine a charming breakfast table filled with fresh flavors and family favorites, perfectly complemented by a delectable jar of kiwi jelly.
- Warm, Buttery Toast: The smooth, sweet jelly spreads effortlessly, enhancing the snack with delightful fruity flavors.
- Fluffy Pancakes: Drizzle this vibrant jelly atop pancakes for an extra burst of fruitiness. It’s a breakfast treat that brightens anyone’s morning!
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer kiwi jelly with yogurt and granola for a refreshing, texture-filled breakfast or snack. It’s an invigorating way to start your day!
- Cheesecake Topping: Use the kiwi jelly as a stunning topping for cheesecake, adding a lively and fresh flavor contrast to creamy richness.
- Fruit Salad Enhancer: Stir a spoonful of jelly into a bowl of mixed fruits for a sweet, tangy glaze that elevates every bite.
- Homemade Ice Cream Swirl: Incorporate the jelly into homemade vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful fruity swirls for summer treat moments.
- Refreshing Sparkling Water: Mix a teaspoon of kiwi jelly into sparkling water for a refreshing drink, offering tropical vibes with every sip.
Make Ahead Options
These Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine chopped kiwis, crushed pineapple, and lime juice, then store it in the refrigerator covered. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to finish, microwave the mixture as directed for 10-12 minutes, incorporating the liquid pectin and food coloring right after it comes to a rolling boil. This means you can whip up a delicious, homemade jelly with minimal effort, making it just as delightful as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Grandma Mildred’s Kiwi Jelly
- Right Ripe Kiwis: Ensure your kiwis are ripe; they should give slightly when pressed. Unripe fruit will result in a less flavorful jelly.
- Microwave Safety: Use a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent the mixture from boiling over. This will save you from messy clean-ups!
- Stir Consistently: Stir every two minutes while microwaving to dissolve sugar fully and prevent burning. Consistency is key for Grandma Mildred’s FAMILY FAVORITE KIWI JELLY!
- Sanitize Jars Properly: Make sure your jars are washed and dried completely to avoid any contamination. This helps the jelly set properly.
- Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze for longer. Proper storage maintains the jelly’s vibrant flavor and texture.
Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with Grandma Mildred’s delightful kiwi jelly—it’s all about personal touches that elevate this family favorite!
- Berry Bliss: Swap kiwi for mixed berries like strawberries or blueberries for a colorful and sweet-tart jelly.
Make your jelly a fruity medley! The natural sweetness of berries pairs beautifully with the tartness of lime, creating an explosion of flavors.
- Tropical Twist: Replace crushed pineapple with crushed mango for a different tropical flair.
Mango lends a lush, creamy texture to the jelly while keeping that summer vibe alive. Imagine spreading it on warm toast—we can almost taste it!
- Zesty Orange: Use fresh orange juice instead of lime juice for a bright citrus flavor.
Orange offers a gentle sweetness with floral notes that compliment the kiwi’s tang, making for a lively breakfast treat!
- Minty Fresh: Mix in fresh mint leaves during the cooking process for a refreshing twist.
Adding mint—just a few leaves—lifts the flavors of the kiwi jelly to new olfactory heights, which is delightful for summer days.
- Ginger Kick: Stir in grated ginger for a warm, spicy note that adds depth.
Ginger introduces a warming sensation that beautifully contrasts the sweet and tangy elements of the jelly. It’s an unexpected delight!
- Heat it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous and want a spicy kick.
This fiery twist can surprise your taste buds in the best way. It’s a daring flavor journey that makes breakfast exciting!
- Natural Sweetener: Substitute sugar with honey or agave nectar for a more natural sweetness.
Both honey and agave bring their unique flavors, lending a lovely floral sweetness while retaining the jelly’s integrity.
- Vibrant Green Naturally: Go for natural food coloring made from spinach or spirulina instead of artificial dye.
Embrace health! Not only will this enhance the jelly’s green hue, but it’ll add an extra boost of nutrition too.
The beauty of this kiwi jelly lies in its versatility—you can enjoy it in countless ways! Now that you’re ready to dive into creativity, don’t forget to check out my scrumptious Crock Pot Angel recipe for another family faves option!
How to Store and Freeze Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly
Fridge: Store in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, ensuring the lids are not overly tight to allow for expansion.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the kiwi jelly in freezer-safe containers, leaving half an inch of space at the top. It can be kept frozen for up to 1 year.
Reheating: If frozen, thaw the jelly in the refrigerator overnight before use. Give it a good stir to restore its smooth texture, perfect for spreading!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the jelly at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Always refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ripe kiwis?
When choosing kiwis, opt for those that are slightly soft to the touch, as this indicates ripeness. A ripe kiwi will have a lush green flesh and should not have dark spots all over, which may signal overripeness. Fresh, unblemished kiwis will yield the best flavor for your jelly!
How should I store Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly?
You can store the jelly in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Make sure the lids are not too tight to allow for expansion. For longer storage, place the jars in the freezer, where the jelly will keep well for up to 1 year. Just remember to leave about half an inch of space at the top for expansion!
Can I freeze Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the cooled jelly into freezer-safe containers, leaving half an inch of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion. Seal the jars tightly and label them with the date. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir it well before serving!
What if my jelly doesn’t set properly?
If your kiwi jelly hasn’t set, don’t worry! It could be due to insufficient cooking time or not enough pectin. To fix it, simply reheat the jelly in a pot on the stove until it reaches a rolling boil again. Stir in a bit more liquid pectin according to the package instructions, then rejar and let it cool. This should help achieve that perfect jelly consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
While Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly is a delightful treat for humans, it contains sugar and lime juice, which aren’t suitable for pets, especially dogs. Always keep such treats out of reach of your furry friends. Additionally, if anyone in your household has a fructose intolerance or citrus allergy, consider using another fresh fruit alternative to ensure everyone can enjoy it safely.
Can I use other fruits instead of kiwi in this jelly recipe?
Yes! You can substitute kiwi with other fruits like strawberries, peaches, or even a mix of your favorites. Just make sure to use fruits that are ripe and sweet, as they will balance out the acidity of the lime juice. Adjust sugar levels as needed based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose, and enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Grandma Mildred’s Family Favorite Kiwi Jelly: Sweet Joy Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and peel the kiwifruits, chop into small pieces, and mix with crushed pineapple and lime juice in a bowl.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Remove from microwave, stir in liquid pectin and green food coloring if using, mixing until well combined.
- Pour mixture into sanitized jars, leaving half an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Let the jars cool to room temperature, then rest undisturbed overnight.
- Store the jelly in the fridge for up to a month or freeze for longer storage.
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