Homemade Red Pepper Jelly – Sweet, Spicy & Delicious
If you’re looking for a homemade condiment that’s sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy, this Red Pepper Jelly recipe is a wonderful addition to your kitchen. Made with colorful bell peppers, jalapeños, apple cider vinegar, and sugar, this vibrant jelly delivers a delicious balance of flavors that works beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes.
One of the best things about homemade red pepper jelly is its versatility. Spread it over softened cream cheese and serve with crackers for an easy holiday appetizer, brush it onto grilled chicken or pork as a flavorful glaze, or add a spoonful to your favorite sandwich for a sweet and spicy kick.
This recipe combines three cups of finely chopped red bell peppers with green bell peppers and jalapeños. The red peppers provide sweetness and beautiful color, while the jalapeños add a gentle heat. Apple cider vinegar contributes the tanginess that balances the sugar, and powdered pectin helps the mixture develop its characteristic jelly texture.
To prepare the jelly, combine the chopped peppers with apple cider vinegar and pectin in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring, then add the sugar. Return it to a full boil and follow the recipe instructions for cooking and filling the jars. National Center for Home Food Preservation
For consistent pepper pieces, a vegetable chopper can make preparation quicker and easier, especially when making several jars for gifts.
The finished jelly is especially delicious as a simple cream cheese appetizer. Place an eight-ounce block of cream cheese on a serving plate, spoon red pepper jelly over the top, and surround it with your favorite crackers.
Homemade Red Pepper Jelly also makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Its cheerful red color, sweet heat, and many serving possibilities make it a condiment worth keeping on hand for appetizers, entertaining, and everyday meals.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or adding flavor to dinner, this sweet and spicy pepper jelly is a delicious way to enjoy fresh peppers.
Related Recipes:
Print
Red Pepper Jelly
- Total Time: :35
Ingredients
- 3 cups finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 (1.75 ounce each) packages SURE-JELL powder pectin* – This means one full package plus one half package of pectin.
- 5 cups white sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 box crackers
Instructions
- Begin by sterilizing six 8-ounce canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Begin heating your water in a hot water canner for processing.
- Place the red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and jalapeño peppers into a large saucepan over high heat. Mix in the apple cider vinegar and Sure-Jell pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly. Then, quickly stir in the sugar. Return to a rolling boil and boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat and skim off any foam.
- Then, quickly ladle the jelly into your prepared jars, filling each to 1/4 inch from the top. Cover with flat lids; then screw on the bands tightly.
- Place the jars into the canning rack, and slowly lower the jars into the canner. The water should cover the jars completely, and should be hot but not boiling. Bring water to a boil and process for five minutes.
- Remove the jars and allow them to cool completely.
- To serve the Red Pepper Jelly Appetizer Simply, place the block of Cream Cheese on a plate. Then, spoon the red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese. Serve with crackers.
- Prep Time: :20
- Cook Time: :15
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stove Top + Canner