Christmas in July

Canning, canning, canning...Some of the items I am canning will be Christmas presents.  But let's not forget that summer is a great time to start making other Christmas gifts. I am starting work on my gifts as well as back-to-school items and items for my Etsy store.  One is actually a wedding present for my son-in-law's sister.  I will definitely post pictures. I am so excited about it.
What are you making this summer?

Berry-Fig Preserves

This year I made my Strawberry-Fig Preserves a little different. They are awesome.

6 cups cleaned, stemmed, quartered figs

4 cups sugar

2 (3oz.) packs of strawberry gelatin

*Cover the figs with 1 cup of sugar and refrigerate for a couple of hours.

*Mix figs with remaining ingredients in large boiler.
*Put clean lids and jars in another pot with enough water to cover.  Turn off when it begins to boil. Leave jars and lids in water until ready to fill.

*Bring to a boil over heat just above medium. Mash and stir very frequently.

*Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer at least 10 minutes. Stirring frequently.

*Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for 5 minutes. Keep stirring...(this is a good time to get your jars out and ready to fill.

*Remove from boiling water and fill with preserves. Leave 1/4 in space at top.

*Wipe jar tops with a damp clothe and place lids. Finger tighten the lids.

*Place in canning pot. Cover with water. Water should be 1-2 inches above tops of jars.

*Bring to a boil and boil for 10-15 minutes. (4 oz. jars 10, 8 oz. jars 13, pints 15)

*Put jars in a draft free area and let sit overnight.

*Check for seal (lid should not give when pressed in the middle). Place any unsealed jars in fridge. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.

These are also delicious with raspberry gelatin. Tomorrow I am trying a mixed berry. I will let you know how that tastes.