The Best Homemade Pepper Jelly Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade pepper jelly recipe is a game-changer, with its perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s easy to whip up and adds a pop of excitement to any dish.
- Versatile & delicious – Spread it on crackers, glaze meats, or even drizzle over cream cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Simple ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples, like peppers, sugar, and vinegar, create something truly special.
- Great for gifting – Jar it up with a cute ribbon, and you’ve got a homemade present that friends and family will rave about.
Recipe
Pepper jelly is a sweet and spicy condiment that’s perfect for pairing with cheese, crackers, or even as a glaze for meats. This homemade version is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño peppers (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 6 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (6 oz) pouch liquid pectin
- 1/2 teaspoon butter (to reduce foaming)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine bell peppers, jalapeños, vinegar, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
- Once boiling, stir in the butter and let the mixture boil for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the liquid pectin. Return to a boil and let it boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam.
- Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Seal with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Notes:
- Adjust the heat level by adding or reducing jalapeños.
- Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids
- Water bath canner
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 6 (8 oz) jars
Nutrition
Pepper jelly offers a blend of sweet and spicy flavors. It contains essential nutrients from its ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade pepper jelly with creamy cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, because the sweetness and spice pair perfectly. Crackers or crusty bread work great as a base, and they make it easy to enjoy every bite. You can even add a charcuterie board for a full spread that’s sure to impress.
Cheese Pairings
There’s something truly magical about pairing pepper jelly with cheese—it’s a combo that just works. I love how the sweet heat of the jelly balances the creamy richness of cheese. Sharp cheddar is my go-to; its bold flavor holds up beautifully against the jelly’s kick. Cream cheese is another favorite—spread it thick, top with jelly, and it’s instant bliss. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll grab some tangy goat cheese or a mild brie—both are dreamy with the jelly’s zing. Even gouda or provolone can shine in this pairing. It’s all about finding flavors that dance together, and trust me, they do.
Crackers and Breads
After enjoying pepper jelly with cheese, it’s natural to think about what else to pair it with—crackers and breads are perfect companions. I love spreading the jelly on buttery crackers or crusty baguette slices; the crunch balances the jelly’s sweetness. Whole-grain crackers add a nutty depth, while fluffy dinner rolls soak up the flavors. For a twist, try toasted sourdough or rye bread—their tanginess plays well with the heat. Don’t forget pita chips or water crackers for a lighter bite. Experiment to find your favorite combo, but trust me, you can’t go wrong with any of these!
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