Cranberry Hot Pepper Jam Recipe for Bold Flavor Boost

There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of sweet and spicy flavors, especially when it comes to homemade preserves. Cranberry hot pepper jam is the perfect blend of tart cranberries and fiery peppers that will awaken your taste buds and add a burst of excitement to your meals.

This vibrant jam is not only visually stunning with its deep red hue but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to spice up your cheese board, add a zing to your sandwiches, or create a unique glaze for meats, this jam does it all.

Making your own cranberry hot pepper jam is easier than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to preserve the fresh flavors of the season. Plus, it makes for an impressive homemade gift during the holidays or any special occasion.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of creating this delicious jam, share some handy tips, and suggest creative ways to enjoy it. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of cranberry hot pepper jam!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors that come together in a beautifully textured jam. Using fresh cranberries means you get that natural tanginess, while the hot peppers add a playful kick that’s not overpowering but just enough to excite your palate.

Another reason to love this jam is its versatility. It pairs exceptionally well with cheeses, especially creamy varieties like brie or goat cheese.

It also makes a fantastic glaze for chicken, pork, or even roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s great for those who enjoy experimenting with flavor combinations in their cooking.

Best of all, this jam is straightforward to make. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can have a batch ready in just under an hour.

No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cranberries (about 12 ounces)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2-3 hot red peppers (such as Fresno or jalapeño, seeded for less heat)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper (for sweetness and color)
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Equipment

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for smoother jam)
• Heatproof jars or containers for storing jam
• Jar funnel (optional but helpful)
• Clean kitchen towels

Instructions

1. Prepare the peppers: Start by washing your hot peppers and removing the stems. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes. Finely chop the peppers and set aside.
2. Combine ingredients: In your saucepan, add the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, chopped hot peppers, red bell pepper, grated ginger, and salt. Stir everything together to mix well.
3. Cook the jam: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. The cranberries will burst, and the mixture will begin to thicken.
4. Check consistency: To test if your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and tilt it. If it thickens and doesn’t run immediately, it’s done. If it’s too runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
5. Optional blending: If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a blender and pulse until you reach your desired texture. Be careful as the jam will be hot.
6. Add lemon juice: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors and balance the sweetness.
7. Cool and store: Remove the pot from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly. Transfer the jam into clean, heatproof jars using a funnel if you have one. Let the jars cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
8. Refrigerate and enjoy: Your cranberry hot pepper jam will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the jars using a water bath method.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the heat level by choosing milder or hotter peppers according to your taste.

If you want a sweeter jam, increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons, but remember the cranberries are naturally tart, so balancing is key. You can also experiment with adding a cinnamon stick or a splash of orange juice for a unique twist.

For a chunkier texture, avoid blending the jam. Leaving whole cranberries and pepper pieces adds great visual appeal and texture, which pairs wonderfully on a cheese board.

Another variation is to swap apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a slightly different acidic note. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the balance of flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry hot pepper jam is a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a cheese platter featuring creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese for a perfect balance of flavors.

Use it as a glaze for roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or grilled sausages to add a sweet and spicy dimension to your meat dishes. It’s also excellent on toasted baguettes or swirled into cream cheese for a quick appetizer.

For a unique breakfast treat, spread this jam on warm buttermilk pancakes or waffles, or stir a spoonful into your morning yogurt or oatmeal for an exciting flavor boost.

Conclusion

Making your own cranberry hot pepper jam is a rewarding kitchen project that yields a deliciously unique condiment bursting with flavor. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between tart cranberries, fiery peppers, and subtle sweetness, creating a jam that’s as versatile as it is tasty.

Whether you’re adding it to your cheese board, glazing roasted meats, or simply enjoying it on toast, this jam brings warmth and excitement to every bite.

With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a batch of homemade jam that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to capture the seasonal flavors of cranberries and peppers, preserving them for months to come.

Give it a try this season—you might find it becoming a new favorite staple in your kitchen!

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