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Easy Floral Dandelion Jelly Recipe with Lemon and Vanilla Bean for Homemade Gifts

floral dandelion jelly - featured image

A simple and fragrant jelly made from fresh dandelion petals, bright lemon juice, and aromatic vanilla bean. Perfect for homemade gifts or a delightful spread on toast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh dandelion petals (no stems or green parts)
  • 4 cups water (950 ml)
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (60 ml)
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped (seeds plus pod)
  • 4 cups granulated sugar (800 g)
  • 1/4 cup liquid pectin (60 ml)

Instructions

  1. Collect about 4 cups of fresh dandelion petals on a dry day. Avoid any with green parts or stems. Rinse gently under cold water and pat dry.
  2. Place the petals in a large pot and add 4 cups (950 ml) of water. Split and scrape the vanilla bean, adding both seeds and pod to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
  3. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot. Press gently on the petals to extract flavor. Discard petals and vanilla pod.
  4. Stir in 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice and 4 cups (800 g) granulated sugar into the warm liquid until sugar dissolves.
  5. Return mixture to the pot and bring to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Add 1/4 cup (60 ml) liquid pectin and stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes. Boil hard for exactly 1 minute.
  6. Test the jelly by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate and tilting it. If it wrinkles and holds shape, it is ready. If not, boil for another 30 seconds and test again.
  7. Ladle hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and let cool to room temperature.
  8. Store jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or process in a hot water bath for longer shelf life.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Do not skip the vanilla bean pod for authentic aroma. Stir constantly during boiling to prevent sugar scorching. Test jelly set early to avoid overcooking. For longer storage, process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Variations include adding fresh herbs, reducing sugar, or using a slow cooker for steeping.

Nutrition

Keywords: dandelion jelly, floral jelly, homemade jelly, lemon jelly, vanilla bean jelly, homemade gifts, easy jelly recipe, backyard foraging