A Sweet Twist on Classic Jelly

Dreamsicle Jelly is exactly what it sounds like — bright citrusy orange flavor blended with smooth vanilla. It tastes like the classic orange creamsicle you loved as a kid, but in jelly form! Spread it on warm biscuits, fluffy pancakes, or even swirl it into yogurt for a dreamy treat.

Why You’ll Love Dreamsicle Jelly

• Unique flavor – tastes like a creamsicle in jelly form.
• Simple ingredients – made with just orange juice, sugar, and vanilla beans.
• Versatile – delicious on bread, biscuits, desserts, or even as a glaze for cakes.
• Make-ahead friendly – preserves beautifully for months.

Ingredients

• 4 cups freshly squeezed orange juice (strained)
• 4 cups sugar
• 2 vanilla beans, split and scraped
• 1 pat of butter
• 1 box pectin (optional)

Instructions

1. Strain the orange juice through cheesecloth to remove pulp and solids.
2. In a large pot, combine strained orange juice, sugar, butter, vanilla bean scrapings, and pods.
3. Bring mixture to a hard boil over high heat.
4. If using pectin: add the box of pectin, stir, and return to a hard boil for 1 minute.
5. If not using pectin: boil until mixture reaches 220°F and hold for 3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and discard vanilla bean pods.
7. Ladle jelly into prepared jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
8. Wipe rims, apply lids, and screw bands tightly.
9. Process jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes.
10. Remove and place jars on a towel-lined counter in a draft-free area. Let cool several hours.
11. Every 10 minutes while cooling, turn jars upside down and back upright to distribute vanilla specks evenly.
12. Once cool, check seals. Store sealed jars in pantry; refrigerate unsealed jars and use within 2 weeks.

Tips for Perfect Dreamsicle Jelly

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice won’t give the same bright citrus taste.
• The pat of butter helps reduce foaming while boiling.
• Vanilla beans are key! Don’t substitute with extract until after cooking — it won’t hold up to the heat.

Do I need pectin for this jelly?

No — you can make it either way. Pectin makes the jelly set faster, while the no-pectin method relies on reaching the right temperature.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled juice without pulp or added sugar will work in a pinch.

How long does it last?

Sealed jars last up to 12 months in a cool, dark pantry. Opened jars should be refrigerated and used within 2–3 weeks.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes! A little lemon zest or even a splash of vanilla extract at the end can deepen the flavor.