Pepper jelly recipe is a bold, sweet, and spicy preserve made with a mix of vibrant peppers, sugar, vinegar, and pectin. This versatile condiment can be used in a variety of ways—from glazing meats to spreading over cream cheese for an easy appetizer. With its jewel-toned color and irresistible flavor, homemade pepper jelly makes a perfect addition to your pantry and an excellent gift for food lovers.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Sweet and Spicy Balance: The blend of sugar and peppers creates a unique flavor that’s both exciting and delicious.
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Homemade Goodness: No preservatives or additives—just fresh ingredients and bold taste.
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Versatile Usage: Works as a glaze, dip, spread, marinade, or condiment.
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Perfect for Gifting: Its vibrant color and long shelf life make it great for holiday baskets or hostess gifts.
Ingredients List
Essential Ingredients
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1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
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1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
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¼ cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for mild heat)
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1½ cups apple cider vinegar
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1 package (3 oz) liquid fruit pectin (such as Certo)
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5 cups granulated sugar
Optional Add-ins
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1 tsp red pepper flakes (for added heat)
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½ tsp salt (to balance flavor)
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A few drops of red or green food coloring (optional for presentation)
Timing & Yield
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Cooling Time: 12–24 hours (for setting)
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Total Time: About 1 hour active time + overnight setting
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Yield: About 5 half-pint jars
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pepper Jelly Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
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Wash and dry all peppers.
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Remove stems, seeds, and ribs.
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Finely chop using a sharp knife or pulse in a food processor (do not over-process).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Pot
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In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine chopped peppers, vinegar, and sugar.
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Stir well and bring to a full rolling boil over high heat.
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Boil for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Add Pectin
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Stir in liquid pectin and continue boiling hard for 1 full minute.
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Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the surface.
Step 4: Optional Color Boost
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If desired, add 1–2 drops of food coloring for a vibrant red or green jelly.
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Stir well until the color is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Ladle Into Jars
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Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace.
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Wipe rims clean, place lids on top, and screw on bands until fingertip tight.
Step 6: Process the Jars
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Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (start timing once water returns to a boil).
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Carefully remove jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
Step 7: Check the Seal
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After jars cool, check that the lids have sealed by pressing the center of each lid.
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If it springs back, the jar is not sealed and must be refrigerated.
Tips for Success
Use Gloves for Hot Peppers
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When handling jalapeños or any hot peppers, wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.
Chop Evenly
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Finely chopping the peppers ensures even distribution in the jelly and a smoother consistency.
Don’t Overboil
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Follow boiling times carefully—overcooking can cause your jelly to not set properly.
Use Fresh Pectin
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Make sure your pectin is within its expiration date for best results.
Skim the Foam
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Removing foam gives your jelly a clearer, more professional look.
Flavor Variations to Try
Pineapple Pepper Jelly
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Add ½ cup finely chopped pineapple for tropical sweetness.
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Excellent with pork or grilled shrimp.
Habanero Pepper Jelly
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Use 1–2 habanero peppers for a fiery-hot version.
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Best used sparingly as a glaze or mixed into sauces.
Cranberry Pepper Jelly
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Add ½ cup cranberry juice and reduce vinegar slightly.
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Great for Thanksgiving appetizers.
Garlic and Herb Pepper Jelly
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Add 1–2 cloves of minced garlic and a sprig of thyme or rosemary for a savory depth.
Smoked Pepper Jelly
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Roast the peppers before chopping for a subtle smoky flavor.
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Ideal for grilled meats and BBQ sauces.
Serving Suggestions
Over Cream Cheese
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Spoon jelly over a block of cream cheese and serve with crackers for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
As a Glaze
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Brush on grilled chicken, pork chops, or salmon during the last few minutes of cooking.
In Sandwiches
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Spread on turkey or ham sandwiches for a sweet-spicy kick.
On a Cheese Board
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Serve alongside brie, cheddar, or goat cheese to balance the richness.
As a Marinade Ingredient
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Mix with soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic for a bold meat marinade.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Convenience
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Prepare in large batches and store sealed jars in the pantry.
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Perfect for holiday prep or hostess gifts.
Refrigerated Storage
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Once opened, refrigerate the jelly and use within 3–4 weeks.
Freezing Option
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You can freeze pepper jelly in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
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Leave ½ inch of headspace to allow for expansion.
Water Bath Canning Basics
Why It’s Important
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Water bath canning ensures your jelly is shelf-stable and safe from bacteria.
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Especially important when using low-acid ingredients like peppers.
Equipment Needed
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Canning pot or deep stockpot with rack
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Jar lifter and funnel
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Sterilized jars and lids
Safety Tips
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Always use tested recipes.
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Do not skip the water bath process unless storing in the refrigerator only.
Nutritional Overview (Approximate)
Per tablespoon serving:
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Calories: 55
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Carbohydrates: 14g
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Sugar: 13g
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Fat: 0g
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Protein: 0g
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Fiber: 0.2g
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Sodium: 2mg
Note: Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the variety and amount of peppers used.
FAQs
Can I use powdered pectin instead of liquid?
Yes, but the method changes slightly. Use according to package instructions and adjust the cooking time and sugar as directed.
How spicy is this jelly?
With jalapeños and bell peppers, it’s mildly spicy. To make it hotter, add more jalapeños or include seeds and membranes.
What happens if my jelly doesn’t set?
Don’t worry. It can still be used as a glaze or sauce. You can also reprocess it with a bit more pectin or cook longer.
Can I use vinegar other than apple cider?
Yes, white vinegar is a good substitute. However, flavored or balsamic vinegars may affect the jelly’s flavor and color.
How long does sealed pepper jelly last?
Properly processed and sealed jars can last 12–18 months when stored in a cool, dark place.
Conclusion
Pepper jelly recipe is a sweet, spicy, and incredibly versatile condiment that every home cook should have in their recipe collection. Whether you serve it over cream cheese, brush it onto grilled meats, or stir it into marinades and sauces, it adds instant flavor and excitement to any dish. Making it at home is surprisingly easy and deeply rewarding. Once you try this simple pepper jelly recipe, you’ll be hooked—and so will everyone you serve it to.