Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cranberry pepper jelly recipe! It’s a total game-changer in the kitchen. This sweet and spicy jelly is incredibly versatile—perfect for slathering on crackers, as a glaze on roasted meats, or even as a gift in a cute little jar. I remember the first time I made it for a holiday gathering; everyone was raving about it! I served it with a cheese platter, and it disappeared faster than I could refill it. Trust me, the combination of tart cranberries with a hint of heat from the peppers is just divine. You’re going to love how easy it is to whip up, and the compliments you’ll receive will be priceless!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best cranberry pepper jelly, and I promise you, it’s worth every bit of effort! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries: Make sure they’re vibrant and plump for the best flavor. You can find them in the produce aisle, usually around the holidays.
- 1 cup sugar: This will balance out the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
- 1 cup water: Essential for cooking down the cranberries and helping to create that luscious jelly texture.
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper: Sweet and crunchy, it adds a delightful texture and color to your jelly.
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeño pepper: This is where the magic happens! Adjust this amount based on how spicy you want your jelly to be—don’t be afraid to experiment!
- 1 packet fruit pectin: This helps the jelly set properly. Be sure to check the package instructions for any specific details.
That’s it! Simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Make sure to use the best quality you can find, and you’ll be amazed at the results!
How to Prepare the Cranberry Pepper Jelly Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious cranberry pepper jelly! It’s a simple process, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar by the time you’re done. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the ingredients: Start by putting the 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of water into a medium saucepan. Give it a little stir to mix everything up.
- Bring it to a boil: Heat the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll hear those cranberries start to pop—it’s a beautiful sound! Keep an eye on it, and don’t walk away.
- Simmer: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You want to cook it until the cranberries burst and soften. This is where the magic really starts happening!
- Add the peppers and pectin: Now, stir in your 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup of diced jalapeño pepper, and that all-important packet of fruit pectin. Make sure it’s well mixed in.
- Boil again: Keep it on the heat and bring it back to a rapid boil for 1-2 minutes. Stir constantly to keep everything combined and ensure the pectin activates properly. You’ll notice the mixture thickening up nicely.
- Jar it up: Carefully pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them up and let them cool at room temperature before moving them to the fridge.
And there you have it! Just a few simple steps to create something that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it. Trust me, you’re going to want to share this with everyone!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the heat: If you like a milder jelly, feel free to reduce the amount of jalapeño. Start with half of what’s called for, and taste the mixture before adding more!
- Ensure it sets: If your jelly doesn’t seem to set, don’t panic! You might need to boil it for a little longer. Just keep stirring and checking for that perfect jelly-like consistency.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and peppers will give you the best flavor. If they’re looking a bit sad at the store, it’s worth waiting for a fresher batch!
- Be cautious with boiling: When boiling, it can bubble up and splatter. So, keep your spatula handy and stir often to avoid any kitchen messes.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be a cranberry pepper jelly pro in no time! Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! While I’m not a nutritionist, I do want you to have an idea of what you’re getting with this delicious cranberry pepper jelly. Here’s an estimated breakdown per tablespoon:
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially the sugar and peppers, but this should give you a good ballpark figure! It’s a sweet and spicy treat, so just enjoy it in moderation. Whether you’re spreading it on a cracker or using it as a glaze, you’re indulging in something that’s not only tasty but also a delightful addition to your meals!
FAQ Section
How long does the jelly last in the fridge?
Great question! This cranberry pepper jelly can last in your refrigerator for about three weeks when stored in airtight jars. Just make sure to keep it sealed tight and always use a clean spoon when scooping it out to avoid any contamination. You’ll want to enjoy it while it’s fresh and bursting with flavor!
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available! Just keep in mind that they might release a bit more water as they thaw, which can affect the consistency of your jelly. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it thickens up just right, but it’ll still be delicious!
What can I serve with cranberry pepper jelly?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving this cranberry pepper jelly on a cheese platter with a variety of cheeses like cream cheese, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar. It also makes a fantastic glaze for grilled chicken or pork—just brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and spicy finish. You can even spread it on sandwiches or burgers for an extra kick. Trust me, it’ll elevate any dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: You can whip up this jelly in just 35 minutes, making it a breeze for any occasion!
- Great for gifting: Pack it in a cute jar and give it to friends or family—it’s a thoughtful homemade treat!
- Adds a unique twist: The sweet and spicy flavor profile elevates any dish, from cheese platters to grilled meats.
- Easy to customize: Adjust the heat level by playing with the jalapeño quantity—make it as mild or spicy as you like!
This cranberry pepper jelly is not just a condiment; it’s a conversation starter and a delightful treat that you’ll want to share with everyone!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this fabulous cranberry pepper jelly, let’s talk about how to enjoy it! One of my absolute favorite ways is to spread it on a buttery cracker with a slice of cream cheese on top. It’s a match made in heaven! You can also use it as a glaze for roasted chicken or pork—just brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet, sticky finish that your guests will rave about.
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a dollop to your favorite sandwich for an unexpected kick. It pairs wonderfully with turkey or ham, bringing an exciting twist to your lunchtime routine. And don’t forget about cheese platters! This jelly adds a pop of color and flavor that complements a variety of cheeses. The options are endless, and I promise, once you start using it, you’ll find new ways to incorporate it into your meals. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Cranberry Pepper Jelly Recipe: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and spicy cranberry pepper jelly that is perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeño pepper
- 1 packet fruit pectin
Instructions
- Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer until cranberries burst.
- Stir in diced peppers and pectin.
- Boil for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
- Allow to cool at room temperature before refrigerating.
Notes
- Adjust pepper quantity for desired heat.
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cranberry pepper jelly recipe, berry jelly, spicy jelly
