This homemade Orange Jelly with Honey is a refreshing and light dessert that combines the natural sweetness of fresh orange juice with a touch of honey. It’s a simple and elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and no need for gelatin, this dessert is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making it a wholesome choice for the entire family.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- Oranges: 5-6 medium (2½ cups or 600 ml of fresh juice)
- Honey: 2-3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Cornstarch: ½ cup (65 g)
Optional Garnish:
- Desiccated coconut
- Candied cherries
- Fresh mint leaves
Directions
Prepare the Orange Juice
- Squeeze 5-6 oranges to extract 2½ cups (600 ml) of fresh juice.
- Strain the juice through a fine sieve to remove pulp for a smooth texture.
Prepare the Mold
- Lightly grease a 25 cm x 15 cm mold with oil to ensure easy removal of the jelly once set.
Mix Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey, and cornstarch.
- Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
Cook the Mixture
- Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
Cool and Chill
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared mold and smooth the surface.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the jelly is fully set.
Serve
- Loosen the jelly from the mold by running a knife along the edges.
- Invert the mold onto a serving plate and cut the jelly into squares or shapes.
- Garnish with desiccated coconut, candied cherries, or fresh mint leaves.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a sprinkle of desiccated coconut and candied cherries for a tropical flair.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh seasonal fruits for added freshness.
- Drizzle with extra honey or a light orange glaze for enhanced sweetness.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert after a summer meal.
5 Cooking Tips
- Adjust the honey based on the natural sweetness of the oranges; sweeter oranges may require less honey.
- Whisk the mixture continuously while cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
- To avoid sticking, ensure the mold is well-greased or lined with plastic wrap.
- For added zest, incorporate a teaspoon of grated orange zest into the mixture before cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oranges: High in vitamin C, promoting immune health and skin vitality.
- Honey: A natural sweetener with antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
- Cornstarch: Provides a gluten-free thickening agent, making this dessert light and easy to digest.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No, contains honey (substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option).
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- A refreshing and light dessert perfect for any time of year.
- Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and adaptable for vegan diets.
- A vibrant, visually appealing treat that’s great for entertaining.
- Customizable with garnishes like coconut, cherries, or mint leaves.
Conclusion
This Orange Jelly with Honey is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness and tang of oranges in a light, refreshing dessert. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a stunning presentation with simple garnishes. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as an everyday treat, this recipe is sure to brighten your day. Try it today and savor the pure, fresh flavors of oranges in every bite.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use bottled orange juice? Yes, but fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor.
- What can I use instead of honey? Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Can I add other fruits? Yes, layer sliced fruits like kiwi or strawberries in the mold before pouring the mixture.
- How can I make it firmer? Increase the cornstarch slightly for a firmer jelly.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare and refrigerate up to a day in advance.
- Can I add orange zest? Absolutely, orange zest will enhance the flavor and add texture.
- How do I avoid lumps in the mixture? Whisk thoroughly before cooking and stir continuously while heating.
- What mold works best? Silicone molds or glass containers work well for easy removal.
- Can I freeze the jelly? Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture.
- How do I serve this dessert? Slice into squares or use cookie cutters for fun shapes, then garnish as desired.
Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing dessert that captures the essence of fresh oranges! 🍊✨