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Homemade Dandelion Jelly in a jar with dandelion flowers

Dandelion Jelly

A bright and floral jelly that captures the essence of spring, perfect for spreading on toast or as a dessert topper.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 half-pint jars
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Dandelion Jelly Ingredients
  • 4 cups dandelion petals, fresh and yellow only Discard greens and stems. Pick in areas free from pesticides.
  • 3 cups water
  • 3 cups granulated sugar Use less for a healthier option.
  • 1 large lemon, juiced About 2–3 tablespoons for brightness.
  • 1 package powdered pectin About 1.75 ounces or 4 teaspoons of liquid pectin.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla or a cinnamon stick Optional for flavor while simmering.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Harvest and prep petals. In the cool of morning, pick bright yellow dandelion heads. Rinse petals gently in cold water to remove tiny visitors and grit. Spread on a towel to drain and pat dry.
  2. Make the dandelion infusion. Combine petals and 3 cups of water in a medium pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let steep for 20 minutes.
  3. Strain and measure. Pour the infusion through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl, pressing the petals to release every drop. Measure the liquid.
  4. Prepare jars and lids. Sterilize 6 half-pint jars and lids by boiling them or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle.
Cooking
  1. Cook the jelly. Pour the dandelion infusion back into the pot. Add lemon juice and powdered pectin, whisking until dissolved. Bring to a full, rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Boil to set. Once boiling, add sugar all at once and stir vigorously. Boil hard for 1–2 minutes while stirring constantly.
  3. Jar the jelly. Ladle the hot jelly into prepared jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, apply lids, and screw on bands fingertip-tight.
  4. Process for safety. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes. Remove jars and let cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
  5. Rest and enjoy. Let the jelly cure for 24 hours before opening to allow flavors to mellow.

Notes

Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate opened jars and use within 1 month. Jelly can be frozen for up to 6 months; thaw in the refrigerator before using.