Pepper Jelly Recipe Easy and Delicious to Make Fast

If you love the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, then making your own pepper jelly is a delightful kitchen adventure you’ll want to embark on. This easy pepper jelly recipe transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful spread that can jazz up everything from crackers and cream cheese to grilled meats and sandwiches.

Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those fresh peppers from your garden or farmer’s market haul.

Imagine a glossy, jewel-like jelly bursting with the zing of peppers and the subtle sweetness of sugar, all perfectly set with a touch of pectin. Homemade pepper jelly also makes a thoughtful gift, bringing a personal touch to any food lover’s pantry.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to brighten your meals and impress your guests with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pepper jelly recipe stands out because it’s simple, quick, and uses everyday ingredients. You don’t need fancy tools or exotic spices to create a jelly that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.

Here’s why you’ll adore making it:

• Versatility: Perfect for appetizers, glazing, or even as a condiment.
• Customizable heat level: Adjust the types and amounts of peppers to suit your spice tolerance.
• Long shelf life: Properly canned, your jelly will last for months, giving you a tasty treat anytime.
• Fun and rewarding: Making jelly at home is a satisfying process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas.

Ingredients

• 2 cups finely chopped mixed peppers (use a combination of sweet bell peppers and hot peppers like jalapeños or serranos)
• 1 1/2 cups white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (powdered)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest for added brightness

Equipment

• Large saucepan for cooking the jelly
• Cutting board and sharp knife for chopping peppers
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or whisk for stirring
• Heat-safe jars with lids for canning
• Water bath canner or large pot for sterilizing jars
• Jar lifter or tongs for handling hot jars

Instructions

1. Prepare the peppers: Wash and finely chop your peppers, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. Combine sweet and hot peppers for a balanced flavor. If you want a milder jelly, use more bell peppers and fewer hot peppers.
2. Mix ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped peppers, sugar, vinegar, and salt. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
3. Bring to a boil: Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
4. Add pectin: Gradually stir in the fruit pectin powder. Keep stirring constantly and bring the mixture back to a full boil for exactly 1 minute.
5. Remove from heat: Take the saucepan off the stove. If using, add the lemon zest now and stir it in thoroughly.
6. Prepare jars: While cooking, ensure your jars and lids are sterilized and hot. Use a water bath canner or boiling water to sterilize jars properly.
7. Fill jars: Carefully ladle the hot jelly into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
8. Seal jars: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids on, and screw on bands until fingertip tight.
9. Process jars: Place filled jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Process for 10 minutes to seal the jars safely.
10. Cool and store: Remove jars carefully and let them cool on a towel or rack. You’ll hear the satisfying “pop” of sealed lids as they cool. Store in a cool, dark place and enjoy within a year.

Tips & Variations

“Always taste your peppers before deciding how many to use — some might be hotter than expected!”

• Adjust sweetness and heat: Increase sugar for a sweeter jelly or add more hot peppers for extra spice.
• Use different peppers: Try using habaneros, Fresno, or even sweet banana peppers to create unique flavor profiles.
• Add fruit: Toss in a cup of diced pineapple or mango for a tropical twist on your pepper jelly.
• Make it vegan-friendly: Ensure your pectin is plant-based and avoid any animal-derived additives.
• Storage tips: Refrigerate after opening and consume within a month for best quality.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Pepper jelly is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Spread on crackers with cream cheese: A classic appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Glaze for grilled chicken or pork: Brush it on during the last few minutes of grilling for a flavorful shine.
• Stir into salad dressings: Add a spoonful to vinaigrettes for a sweet-spicy kick.
• Mix with mayonnaise: Create a zesty sandwich spread or burger topping.
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables: Enhance simple roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts with a touch of pepper jelly.

For more easy and tasty recipes that complement your homemade jelly, check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, or try the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian dinner, the 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals is a great place to start.

Conclusion

Making your own pepper jelly is a delightful way to bring a burst of flavor and color to your kitchen creations. This easy recipe ensures that even beginners can enjoy the satisfaction of homemade preserves without the hassle.

The balance of sweet and spicy makes this jelly a versatile condiment that elevates simple dishes and impresses guests. Plus, with shelf-stable jars, you can prepare gifts or have a ready supply of tasty jelly all year round.

Whether you enjoy it as a dip, a glaze, or a unique addition to your favorite recipes, this pepper jelly is bound to become a staple in your pantry. Give it a try and discover the joy of crafting your own delicious spreads at home!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Pepper Jelly Recipe Easy”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A quick and simple pepper jelly perfect for appetizers or glazing. This recipe combines sweet and spicy flavors in a delicious spread.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT15M”, “totalTime”: “PT25M”, “recipeYield”: “4 cups”, “recipeIngredient”: [“4 cups chopped mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow)”, “2 cups granulated sugar”, “1 cup apple cider vinegar”, “1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin”, “1 teaspoon salt”, “1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes”, “1/2 teaspoon garlic powder”, “1/2 teaspoon onion powder”, “1/4 cup water”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Combine chopped peppers, sugar, vinegar, and water in a large pot.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add fruit pectin, salt, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Boil hard for 1 minute while stirring constantly.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Remove from heat and skim off any foam.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Seal jars and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “80”, “proteinContent”: “0.3g”, “fatContent”: “0g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “21g”}}