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Flavorful Dandelion Jelly Recipe with Lemon and Vanilla Bean

flavorful dandelion jelly - featured image

A delicate and flavorful homemade jelly made from dandelion petals infused with bright lemon and creamy vanilla bean, perfect for breakfast or tea time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups loosely packed dandelion petals, washed and free of green parts
  • 2 medium lemons, zested and juiced
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract as substitute)
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 package liquid pectin (about 1.75 ounces / 50 grams)
  • 6 cups water

Instructions

  1. Pick and prep dandelion petals: Gather about 4 cups of fresh yellow dandelion petals, rinse gently in cold water and drain well, avoiding any green parts.
  2. Steep the petals: In a large pot, combine the petals with 6 cups of water. Bring to a gentle simmer and let steep for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Strain the infusion: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or pot to remove solids. Press gently to extract liquid without bitterness.
  4. Return liquid to pot and add lemon and vanilla: Add zest and juice of 2 lemons, split vanilla bean and scrape seeds into pot, add pod as well. Bring to a boil and infuse for 5 minutes.
  5. Add sugar and pectin: Remove vanilla pod. Stir in 4 cups sugar gradually until dissolved. Pour in liquid pectin while stirring briskly. Return to full boil and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
  6. Test for setting point: Place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and tilt. If it wrinkles and holds shape, jelly is ready; if not, boil another minute and test again.
  7. Jar the jelly: Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and process in boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
  8. Cool and store: Remove jars and let cool completely. Store in a cool, dark place for up to one year.

Notes

Use only yellow dandelion petals to avoid bitterness. Liquid pectin provides better control over jelly setting. Stir continuously during boiling to prevent scorching. Test jelly setting on a chilled plate. Sterilize jars and lids properly before use. For more intense flavor, prepare petals and lemon zest the day before and refrigerate overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: dandelion jelly, lemon jelly, vanilla bean jelly, homemade jelly, wildflower jelly, spring jelly, easy jelly recipe, natural jelly