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Pepper jelly recipe: easy homemade hot pepper jelly recipe

a jar of pepper jam_ This easy homemade hot pepper jelly recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from crackers and cream cheese to grilled veggies. Made with fresh peppers and simple ingredients, this jelly is a breeze to prepare and adds a bold kick to your favorite dishes. Whether you're canning or freezing it, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for adding a touch of heat to your meals!
This easy homemade hot pepper jelly recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from crackers and cream cheese to grilled veggies. Made with fresh peppers and simple ingredients, this jelly is a breeze to prepare and adds a bold kick to your favorite dishes. Whether you're canning or freezing it, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for adding a touch of heat to your meals!
Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rest 1 day
Serving Size 6 8oz-jars

Equipment

  • 6 8oz canning jars

Ingredients

Pepper jam recipe ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (225g) finely diced bell pepper (use a mix of colors)
  • 1 lb (450g) jalapeños - (about 10); remove seeds and veins from half for mild jelly, or leave them all for hot jelly
  • 5 cups (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ¼ cups (300ml) white or apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup (60ml) lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 ounces (85g) liquid fruit pectin (like Certo liquid fruit pectin)

Instructions

How to make homemade hot pepper jelly recipe

  • Chop the Peppers: Finely chop the bell pepper using a knife or a food processor. Place the diced peppers in paper towels and squeeze out the excess moisture to help the jelly set. Measure 1 ½ cups of loosely packed diced bell pepper.
  • Prepare the Jalapeños: Finely dice the jalapeños and squeeze out any extra liquid the same way. It’s a good idea to wear gloves when handling this many hot peppers.
  • Cook the Mixture: Place all the diced peppers into a large, deep pot. Add the sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Lower the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil, and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Add Pectin: Gradually stir in the liquid pectin while the mixture is boiling, and let it continue to boil for one more minute. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Stir well to distribute the pepper pieces evenly.
  • Fill the Containers: Pour the jelly into your containers and secure the lids tightly.
  • Optional Step: Flip the containers upside down for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent the pepper pieces from floating to the top. Afterward, turn them right side up and let them cool at room temperature for 24 hours.
  • Storage: Refrigerate the jalapeño jelly and enjoy it within 10 days, or freeze it for up to 4 months.
  • Canning Option: If you want to can the jelly, pour it into sterilized jars. Wipe the rims clean, and secure the lids and rings (make sure they’re washed in warm soapy water). Process the jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes (or longer if you’re at a higher altitude). Let the jars sit at room temperature for 24 hours, then store them in a cool, dry place for 6-10 months.
  • Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this jalapeño jelly over cream cheese with crackers, as a glaze for cauliflower wings, slathered on veggie burgers, or spread on sandwiches for an extra kick of flavor.

Notes

Gift-Giving Tip: If you're planning to gift your pepper jelly, consider using 4-ounce containers instead of the typical 8-ounce jars. This way, you can create twelve charming mini gifts instead of just six larger ones, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Troubleshooting: How to Fix Jelly That Didn’t Thicken

If your jelly hasn’t thickened properly, don’t worry—you can still salvage it! Simply pour the jelly back into a saucepan and heat it gently until it reaches a low boil. Once it’s boiling, stir in another package (or even just half a package) of pectin. Allow it to boil for another minute or two, then remove from heat and recheck for consistency. Repeat the process if needed, but typically one additional dose of pectin will help the jelly set properly.

High Altitude Canning Adjustments

When canning at higher elevations, it’s important to increase the processing time to ensure proper preservation. Here’s how much time to add based on your altitude:
•1,001 to 3,000 feet: Add 5 minutes to your canning time.
•3,001 to 6,000 feet: Increase the processing time by 10 minutes.
•6,001 to 8,000 feet: Extend the time by 15 minutes.
•8,001 to 10,000 feet: Add 20 minutes to the original processing time.
Always be mindful of your elevation to ensure food safety and correct preservation.

Using a Steam Canner

A steam canner can be used as an alternative to a water bath canner with similar results. The processing time should remain the same, but always double-check if you need to adjust the time based on your altitude, just like with a water bath canner.

How to Freeze Jalapeño Jelly

To freeze your jalapeño jelly for later use, pour it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. Secure the lids tightly. You can store the jelly in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or freeze it for up to 4 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it in the fridge.

Flavor Ideas for Jalapeño Jelly

•Fruit Pepper Jelly: For a fruity twist, you can swap out the bell peppers for fruits like chopped cranberries, strawberries, or raspberries. Be sure to blot out any excess moisture from the fruit before adding it to the mix. For an added layer of flavor, try incorporating a little lemon or lime zest to give the jelly a bright, zesty finish.
•No Sugar Jalapeño Jelly: If you’re looking for a sugar-free version, you can follow the Sure Jell recipe that uses their special no-sugar pectin. This allows you to enjoy all the spicy flavor without the added sweetness.

Easy pepper jam recipe variations 

Here are four extra delicious variations for your easy pepper jam recipe:
1. Garlic and Onion Pepper Jam: Sauté minced garlic and onions before adding the peppers for a savory twist. This variation pairs well with savory dishes and charcuterie boards.
2. Herb-Infused Pepper Jam: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro during cooking. This adds an aromatic touch and enhances the overall flavor profile.
3. Smoky Chipotle Pepper Jam: Replace jalapeños with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. This variation works great as a glaze for grilled meats.
4. Citrus Zest Pepper Jam: Add the zest of lemons or limes along with the juice to give your jam a bright, zesty flavor that complements the heat of the peppers.
These variations can help you tailor the jam to your taste and the occasions for which you're making it!
Doubling or Halving the Recipe
While it may be tempting to double the recipe to make a larger batch, it’s not recommended. Doubling the recipe can affect how the jelly sets, often resulting in a runnier consistency. Instead, make two separate batches to ensure the jelly sets properly. However, you can easily halve the recipe without any issues, making it perfect for smaller quantities.