Mountain Dew Jelly Recipe

Discover how to create a unique treat with our Mountain Dew Jelly recipe. This delightful jelly captures the distinct citrusy flavor of Mountain Dew soda in a spreadable form, perfect for adding a twist to your breakfast toast or gifting to friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Mountain Dew soda
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 box powdered fruit pectin (about 1.75 oz)
• Green food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare Your Supplies:

1. Sterilize Canning Jars: Place canning jars and lids in boiling water for sterilization. Keep them warm until ready to use.

Cooking Process:

2. Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix Mountain Dew and powdered fruit pectin until pectin dissolves.
3. Boil the Mixture: Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
4. Add Sugar: Pour in all sugar at once, stirring until completely dissolved.
5. Boil Vigorously: Return mixture to a rolling boil. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Remove from Heat: Skim off any foam using a metal spoon.
7. Optional Coloring: For a vibrant look, add a few drops of green food coloring.

Jarring and Processing:

8. Fill Jars: Ladle hot jelly into hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
9. Secure Jars: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids on jars, and tighten bands.
10. Water Bath: Process jars in boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Adjust time for altitude as needed.
11. Cool and Seal: Remove jars and let cool on a towel-lined countertop. Check seals after 24 hours.

Storage and Enjoyment:

12. Store Safely: Store your Mountain Dew jelly in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
13. Savor the Flavor: Spread on toast or use in recipes to enjoy the unique taste of homemade Mountain Dew jelly.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy Mountain Dew Jelly spread on warm toast, English muffins, or croissants for a delightful breakfast treat.
2. Recipe Enhancement: Use the jelly as a filling for thumbprint cookies or as a topping for cheesecake to add a unique flavor twist.
3. Gift Idea: Package the jelly in decorative jars with labels and ribbons for a thoughtful homemade gift idea, perfect for holidays or special occasions.
4. Accompaniments: Serve alongside a cheese board with sharp cheddar or cream cheese for a sweet and tangy flavor contrast.

Storage Tips:

1. Cool and Dry Storage: Store sealed jars of Mountain Dew Jelly in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain flavor and quality.
2. Refrigeration: Once opened, refrigerate the jelly to preserve freshness and flavor. Use within a few weeks for optimal taste.
3. Freezing: While not typically necessary, you can freeze Mountain Dew Jelly in freezer-safe containers for long-term storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
4. Check Seals: Ensure each jar is properly sealed after processing and check seals before storing. A properly sealed jar will have a lid that does not flex when pressed at the center.
5. Labeling: Label each jar with the date of preparation to track freshness and ensure you consume the jelly within recommended storage times.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can maximize the enjoyment and shelf life of your homemade Mountain Dew Jelly. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast or gifting it to friends, this unique jelly is sure to be a hit!

Variations:

1. Citrus Blend Jelly:
   • Combine Mountain Dew with other citrus juices like lemon, lime, or orange for a citrusy twist. Adjust sugar accordingly based on the tartness of the juices.
2. Minty Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Infuse the jelly with a hint of mint by adding a few fresh mint leaves during the boiling process. Remove the leaves before jarring the jelly.
3. Spicy Jalapeno Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Add finely chopped jalapeno peppers to the jelly mixture for a sweet and spicy kick. This variation pairs well with cheeses or as a glaze for meats.
4. Berry Fusion Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Mix in fresh or frozen berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to the jelly mixture. Cook the berries with the Mountain Dew and adjust sugar as needed.
5. Herbal Infusion Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Steep herbs like lavender, rosemary, or thyme in the Mountain Dew before adding pectin and sugar. Strain the herbs before continuing with the recipe.
6. Vanilla Bean Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean pod and add them to the jelly mixture for a subtle vanilla flavor. This variation complements desserts and breakfast pastries.
7. Cinnamon Spice Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Stir ground cinnamon into the jelly mixture for a warm, comforting flavor. Sprinkle extra cinnamon on top of the jelly before sealing the jars for added aroma.
8. Ginger Zing Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Grate fresh ginger into the Mountain Dew before cooking to infuse the jelly with a spicy, aromatic flavor. Strain the ginger pieces before jarring.
9. Coconut Lime Mountain Dew Jelly:
   • Replace part of the Mountain Dew with coconut water and add lime zest for a tropical twist. Adjust sugar levels to balance the flavors.
10. Pineapple Punch Mountain Dew Jelly:
    • Mix in pineapple juice or chunks for a sweet and tangy jelly reminiscent of a tropical drink. Adjust sugar to taste based on the sweetness of the pineapple.

Experiment with these variations to create unique batches of Mountain Dew Jelly that suit your taste preferences and culinary creativity. Each variation adds a different dimension to this fun and flavorful homemade jelly!

FAQs:

1. Can I use diet Mountain Dew for this recipe?
   • Using diet Mountain Dew may affect the consistency and flavor of the jelly due to differences in sugar content. It’s recommended to use regular Mountain Dew for best results.
2. What does powdered fruit pectin do in this recipe?
   • Powdered fruit pectin acts as a thickening agent that helps the jelly achieve its gel-like consistency when combined with sugar and boiled.
3. How long does it take for the jelly to set after processing?
   • Mountain Dew Jelly typically sets within 24 hours after processing. It may take slightly longer in cooler environments.
4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
   • The amount of sugar is crucial for achieving the proper texture and preserving the jelly. Altering the sugar amount may affect the jelly’s set and shelf life.
5. Why is it important to sterilize canning jars and lids?
   • Sterilizing jars and lids helps prevent contamination and ensures the jelly remains safe to consume for an extended period.
6. How do I know if my jars are properly sealed?
   • After processing and cooling, check the lids for a concave indentation in the center. Press down on the lid; it should not flex or make a popping sound if properly sealed.
7. Can I double or halve this recipe?
   • Yes, you can adjust the recipe by doubling or halving the ingredients. Ensure you maintain the correct proportions of Mountain Dew, pectin, and sugar for best results.
8. What can I do if my jelly doesn’t set properly?
   • If the jelly does not set after 24 hours, you can try re-cooking it with additional pectin or using it as a syrup for pancakes or desserts.
9. How long can I store Mountain Dew Jelly?
   • Properly sealed jars of Mountain Dew Jelly can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.
10. Can I omit the food coloring?
    • Yes, food coloring is optional and can be omitted without affecting the taste or texture of the jelly. Adjust the appearance according to personal preference.

These FAQs address common queries about making, storing, and customizing Mountain Dew Jelly, ensuring you have all the information needed to create and enjoy this unique homemade treat.