Recipe 1: Traditional Dreamsicle Jelly

Ingredients:

• 3 cups orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 box (1.75 oz) powdered pectin
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vanilla extract or vanilla-flavored coffee creamer (optional for creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Jars:
   • Sterilize 6-8 half-pint jars and lids in boiling water. Set them aside to dry.
2. Make Orange Base:
   • In a large saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest (if using), lemon juice, and water.
   • Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Add Pectin:
   • Stir in the powdered pectin until fully dissolved.
   • Let the mixture come to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.
4. Incorporate Sugar:
   • Add sugar all at once and stir until completely dissolved.
   • Return to a rolling boil and boil hard for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add Vanilla Flavor:
   • If using vanilla extract or creamer, stir it in after boiling.
6. Jar the Jelly:
   • Remove from heat and skim off any foam with a spoon.
   • Ladle the jelly into prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
   • Wipe jar rims clean, place the lids on, and screw bands until fingertip tight.
7. Process in Water Bath:
   • Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
   • Remove jars and let them cool for 24 hours. Check seals before storing.