How to Make Pear Jelly

Pear jelly is the perfect way to preserve the harvest of fresh pears. Whether you grow the pears yourself or purchase them at a farmer’s market or the grocery store, making this wonderful treat will not take more than a few hours of your time. When you’re done, you’ll be able to have the summer treat of pears even in the dead of winter.

Things You'll Need

  • 8 oz. canning or jelly jars with lids and rings
  • 6 pounds fresh, ripe pears
  • Powered pectin
  • 7 cups sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Water
  • Saucepan
  • Boiling water bath canner
  • Jelly juice strainer

Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the pears to remove any dust, dirt or pesticide residue. Slice the pears from the core. Place the sliced pears in a saucepan with a quarter cup of water. Heat over medium heat until the pears are soft. Mash with a potato masher if desired to realize as much juice from the pears as possible.

    • 2

      Strain the mashed pears through a jelly bag into a large bowl. If a jelly bag is not available, use a colander lined with cheesecloth over a large bowl.

    • 3

      Pour the juice back into the saucepan. Add the contents of one box of pectin slowly, making sure to dissolve all of the powder into the juice.

    • 4

      Bring the mixture to a boil and add the lemon juice. Add in the sugar one cup at a time until dissolved. Return to a boil for one minute or until the juice thickens.

    • 5

      Ladle the contents into clean jelly jars. Place a lid on each jar and seal with a jar ring.

    • 6

      Process the jelly for 10 minutes in a boiling water bath. Remove from the canner and let sit on a wire or wooden rack until cool. Check each lid for proper sealing. Refrigerate any jars that did not seal properly.