Sugar free pepper jelly is the perfect blend of sweet heat without the guilt. It’s a versatile condiment that adds a spicy kick to everything from appetizers to main dishes. Whether you’re looking to cut back on sugar or simply want a healthier alternative, this recipe delivers bold flavor without compromising on taste.
We love how easy it is to make at home with simple ingredients you probably already have. This jelly pairs beautifully with cream cheese, grilled meats, or even as a glaze for roasted veggies. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those following low-carb or diabetic-friendly diets.
Let’s dive into a recipe that’s both delicious and diet-friendly, proving you don’t need sugar to enjoy a vibrant, flavorful pepper jelly. This homemade version will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft our Sugar Free Pepper Jelly, we use fresh and natural components that ensure bold flavor without added sugar. Here is the complete list of ingredients, arranged by order of use and preparation needs:
- 3 cups of chopped sweet red bell peppers (seeded and finely diced)
- 2 cups of finely chopped jalapeño peppers (seeds removed for milder heat)
- 1 cup of finely chopped green bell peppers
- 2 teaspoons of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of powdered pectin (helps set the jelly naturally)
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of granulated erythritol (or preferred sugar-free sweetener)
These ingredients combine to create a vibrant, spicy jelly perfect for adding a zesty, sugar-free kick to any dish. Each element contributes both texture and flavor depth while keeping the recipe low in carbohydrates and suitable for diabetic-friendly diets.
Ingredient Details Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet red bell peppers | 3 cups | Seeded, finely diced |
| Jalapeño peppers | 2 cups | Seeds removed, finely chopped |
| Green bell peppers | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 teaspoons | Minced |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Use raw for best flavor |
| Water | 1 cup | Room temperature |
| Powdered pectin | 2 tablespoons | Essential for jelly consistency |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness and heat |
| Granulated erythritol | 1/2 cup | Sugar-free sweetener alternative |
Note: Adjust jalapeños and sweetener quantities to suit your heat tolerance and sweetness preference. The use of erythritol ensures our jelly remains sugar-free without compromising on taste or texture.
Tools and Equipment
To create our delicious Sugar Free Pepper Jelly, having the right Tools and Equipment streamlines the process and ensures perfect texture and flavor every time. Below is a detailed list of essential items we use for preparing, cooking, and preserving the jelly:
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
We finely dice the sweet red peppers, jalapeños, and green bell peppers. A sharp knife helps maintain clean cuts and preserves the integrity of the peppers.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of ingredients like apple cider vinegar, water, powdered pectin, salt, and erythritol is critical for balanced flavor and successful gel formation.
- Large Stainless Steel Saucepan
We use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to cook the jelly mixture evenly. Stainless steel prevents unwanted metallic flavors and offers consistent heat distribution.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Stirring the mixture constantly avoids sticking and burning while evenly incorporating ingredients.
- Immersion Blender (optional)
For a smoother jelly texture, we sometimes lightly puree the cooked mixture using an immersion blender.
- Canning Jars with Lids and Bands
Heat-safe glass jars preserve freshness and allow for safe storage. We recommend half-pint or pint-sized jars.
- Canning Funnel
This handy tool helps pour hot jelly into jars cleanly, reducing spills and mess.
- Jar Lifter or Tongs
Safely handling hot jars during the water bath canning process is essential for safety and sanitation.
- Water Bath Canner or Large Pot
For proper sealing and sterilizing, we use a deep pot or dedicated water bath canner to process filled jars.
Tools and Equipment Checklist
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board & Sharp Knife | Preparing peppers and garlic |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Large Stainless Steel Saucepan | Cooking jelly mixture evenly |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Stirring to prevent sticking |
| Immersion Blender (optional) | Smoothing jelly texture |
| Canning Jars with Lids and Bands | Storing and preserving jelly |
| Canning Funnel | Cleanly filling jars |
| Jar Lifter or Tongs | Handling hot jars safely |
| Water Bath Canner/Large Pot | Processing jars for sealing and sterilization |
By equipping ourselves with these essential kitchen tools, we guarantee that our Sugar Free Pepper Jelly maintains its ideal consistency, flavor, and shelf life—making the entire process efficient and enjoyable.
Preparation
To create our sugar free pepper jelly with the best flavor and texture, precise preparation is key. Let’s focus on carefully handling the peppers and accurately measuring every ingredient.
Preparing the Peppers
We start by washing all peppers thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Next, we dice the sweet red peppers, jalapeños, and green bell peppers into small, uniform pieces. This promotes even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the jelly.
For those who prefer less heat, we remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, as these contain most of the capsaicin. If you desire a spicier jelly, leaving some seeds in adds an extra kick.
Using a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board ensures clean cuts and reduces prep time. Remember to wear gloves while prepping peppers to protect your skin from irritation caused by chili oils.
Measuring the Ingredients
Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavor and achieving the perfect jelly consistency. We recommend using digital or precise measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add exactly what the recipe calls for.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet red peppers | 2 large, diced | Washed and seeded |
| Jalapeño peppers | 2, diced | Seeds removed or kept as desired |
| Green bell peppers | 1 medium, diced | Washed and seeded |
| Garlic cloves | 2, minced | Fresh for robust flavor |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 cup | Provides acidity and preservation |
| Water | ½ cup | Adds moisture for cooking |
| Powdered pectin | 1 tablespoon | Essential for jelly set |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances overall taste |
| Granulated erythritol | ¾ cup | Sugar substitute, adjust to taste |
When measuring powdered pectin, avoid packing the spoon to prevent excess, which can affect texture. For granulated erythritol, start with the recommended amount and adjust after tasting if you want it sweeter or less sweet.
Using this precise prep and measurement approach ensures our sugar free pepper jelly will turn out flavorful, perfectly textured, and ready to enjoy.
Cooking the Sugar Free Pepper Jelly
Now that we have our ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to cook the sugar free pepper jelly. This process transforms fresh peppers and sweetener into a vibrant, spicy jelly that’s perfect for any low-carb kitchen.
Combining Ingredients
First, we combine the diced peppers—including sweet red, jalapeño, and green bell peppers—with minced garlic in a large stainless steel saucepan. Next, we add the apple cider vinegar and water to the mix, which helps balance the heat with tang and sets the perfect acidity for preservation. Then, we stir in the granulated erythritol to provide sweetness without sugar, followed by a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavors.
Finally, we sprinkle in the powdered pectin, our natural thickening agent, ensuring the jelly will set properly while remaining sugar-free.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet red peppers | 2 cups, diced | Base flavor and color |
| Jalapeño peppers | 1/4 cup, diced | Adds spicy heat |
| Green bell peppers | 1 cup, diced | Balances heat and texture |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Enhances savory depth |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1/2 cup | Acidity and preservation |
| Water | 1 cup | Adjusts consistency |
| Granulated erythritol | 3/4 cup | Sugar-free sweetening |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Powdered pectin | 2 tbsp | Thickens jelly without sugar |
Cooking Process
With all ingredients combined in the saucepan, we bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. As the jelly heats, the pectin activates and the erythritol dissolves fully, integrating sweetness without crystallizing.
We continue to boil vigorously for 3 to 5 minutes, maintaining steady stirring. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance. If using an immersion blender, we can pulse gently just before boiling to smooth the jelly without losing the characteristic pepper bite.
Testing for Doneness
To test if our sugar free pepper jelly is ready, we use the traditional plate test: place a small spoonful of the hot jelly on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If the jelly wrinkles and holds its form without running back together, it’s done.
Another sign is the thickening of the jelly in the pot, which should coat the back of a clean spoon and clear the surface when stirred.
Together, these indicators assure us the jelly is perfectly cooked, set to cool, and ready to be enjoyed or canned for storage.
Canning and Storage
Proper Canning and Storage are crucial to preserve the vibrant flavors and perfect texture of our sugar-free pepper jelly. Following safe and effective methods ensures long-lasting freshness and food safety.
Sterilizing Jars
To prevent contamination and spoilage, we begin by thoroughly sterilizing the jars. Here’s our step-by-step process:
- Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water. Rinse well.
- Place jars in a large pot or canning kettle filled with water. Make sure water covers jars by at least 1 inch.
- Boil jars for 10 minutes to sterilize.
- Keep jars hot until ready to fill by leaving them in the hot water.
- Simmer lids in hot water (not boiling) for 5 minutes to soften sealing compound. Avoid boiling lids to maintain their integrity.
- Use a clean towel or jar lifter to remove jars carefully, draining excess water.
This process eliminates bacteria and ensures a safe seal during canning.
Filling and Sealing Jars
After cooking the jelly to the perfect consistency, immediate filling and sealing maintain freshness and prevent spoilage:
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Fill jars | Use a funnel to fill hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace | Avoid spilling jelly on rims |
| 2. Remove air bubbles | Run a non-metallic spatula or bubble remover around jar sides | Ensures vacuum seal formation |
| 3. Wipe rims | Clean jar rims with a damp cloth to remove residue | Guarantees airtight seal |
| 4. Apply lids and rings | Place sterilized lids on jars and screw on rings finger-tight | Do not overtighten to allow air escape during processing |
| 5. Process jars | Submerge filled jars in boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes | Adjust time for altitude if needed |
Once processed, we carefully remove jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Listen for the satisfying “pop” sound indicating a perfect seal.
For optimal storage:
- Store sealed jars in a cool dark place.
- Properly canned sugar-free pepper jelly can last up to 1 year.
- Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks.
By mastering Sterilizing Jars and filling and sealing techniques, we lock in bold flavor and vibrant texture of our sugar-free pepper jelly while ensuring food safety.
Serving Suggestions
Our sugar free pepper jelly is incredibly versatile and adds a bold, spicy-sweet kick to numerous dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this guilt-free condiment:
Elevate Your Appetizers
- Spread a generous spoonful on cream cheese or goat cheese for an easy and impressive party plate.
- Use as a glaze on cocktail meatballs or brush over grilled chicken wings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Serve alongside a cheese platter paired with crackers and fresh fruits.
Enhance Main Courses
- Brush on grilled pork chops or salmon during the last few minutes of cooking for a flavorful glaze.
- Stir into a marinade with olive oil and herbs to add complexity to roasted vegetables.
- Spoon over a warm bowl of cooked quinoa or rice to introduce a zesty layer of flavor.
Add a Layer of Flavor to Sandwiches & Wraps
- Spread sugar free pepper jelly on sandwiches with turkey, ham, or roast beef to brighten flavors with a hint of spice.
- Use as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or chicken tenders.
A Sweet and Spicy Companion to Breakfast
- Drizzle over scrambled eggs or an omelet.
- Spread on low-carb toast or mix into plain yogurt for a spicy twist in the morning.
Table: Popular Pairings and Uses for Sugar Free Pepper Jelly
| Pairing Category | Serving Idea | Taste Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Cheeses | Cream cheese, goat cheese | Creamy contrast to spicy sweetness |
| Meats | Grilled chicken, pork chops, smoked ham | Adds glaze and savory heat |
| Vegetables | Roasted asparagus, grilled zucchini | Brightens earthy flavors |
| Breakfast Dishes | Scrambled eggs, yogurt | Sweet heat to balance richness |
| Snacks & Appetizers | Crackers, meatballs, chicken wings | Bold flavor enhancer |
Tips for Serving
- Always serve your sugar free pepper jelly at room temperature to fully enjoy its texture and vibrant flavors.
- Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance—add more for a spicy punch or less for a milder experience.
- Pair with mild and creamy foods to balance the jelly’s bold heat and preserve your palate’s freshness.
“A jar of sugar free pepper jelly is like a secret weapon in the kitchen. It effortlessly transforms everyday meals into flavorful experiences without any guilt.”
Feel free to experiment with combinations and keep a jar handy to instantly add a zesty lift to your favorite recipes.
Tips for Success
To make our Sugar Free Pepper Jelly Recipe turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips carefully. These guidelines ensure optimal flavor, texture, and preservation without added sugar.
1. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Peppers
Using fresh sweet red, jalapeño, and green bell peppers directly impacts the jelly’s vibrant flavor and natural sweetness. Avoid soft or wrinkled peppers as they reduce the overall quality.
2. Adjust Heat Intelligently
We recommend starting with the jalapeños seeded if you prefer milder heat. Remember this:
“Pepper seeds contain most of the capsaicin, so removing seeds controls spiciness without sacrificing flavor.”
Feel free to increase jalapeño quantity if you enjoy a bolder kick.
3. Measure Ingredients Precisely
Accurate measurement ensures the pectin sets the jelly properly and the balance of vinegar and erythritol highlights the flavor. Use dry and liquid measuring tools for best results.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tool | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Peppers | Kitchen scale / cups | Even texture and flavor |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Liquid measuring cup | Acidity for preservation |
| Powdered Pectin | Measuring spoon | Proper gel formation |
| Granulated Erythritol | Measuring cup | Balanced sweetness without sugar |
4. Stir Constantly During Cooking
When bringing the mixture to a rolling boil, keep stirring vigorously. This prevents sticking and burning on the pan bottom and helps activate the pectin evenly for smooth consistency.
5. Use the Plate Test for Doneness
To make sure our jelly is perfectly set, dip a cold plate into the boiling jelly and let it cool for 1 minute. Run your finger through the jelly on the plate:
- If it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back, the jelly is ready.
- If it’s still runny, continue boiling and test every few minutes.
6. Sterilize Jars Thoroughly
Proper jar sterilization is critical for shelf stability. We always:
- Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water.
- Boil them in water for 10 minutes.
- Keep jars hot until filling to avoid temperature shock.
7. Leave Correct Headspace When Filling
Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. This space allows for expansion during processing and creates a vacuum seal for safe storage.
8. Process Jars with a Boiling Water Bath
Process filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This kills bacteria and preserves the jelly’s freshness and shelf life.
9. Store Jars in a Cool, Dark Place
To maintain optimal flavor and texture, store sealed jars away from direct light and heat sources. After opening, refrigerate and use jelly within 3 weeks.
By keeping these Sugar Free Pepper Jelly success tips in mind we ensure every batch bursts with bold spicy flavor and ideal texture—all while being a healthy sugar-free alternative.
Conclusion
Making sugar-free pepper jelly at home is a rewarding way to enjoy bold flavors without added sugars. With the right ingredients and tools, we can easily create a versatile condiment that fits perfectly into low-carb and diabetic-friendly lifestyles.
This jelly not only enhances a variety of dishes but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional sweet spreads. By following careful preparation and canning steps, we ensure a delicious product that lasts and delights.
Let’s embrace this flavorful recipe as a staple in our kitchens and enjoy the spicy kick it brings to every meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sugar-free pepper jelly?
Sugar-free pepper jelly is a spicy condiment made without traditional sugar, often using sugar substitutes like erythritol. It’s low-carb, diabetic-friendly, and adds bold flavor to various dishes without guilt.
What ingredients are used to make sugar-free pepper jelly?
Key ingredients include sweet red peppers, jalapeños, green bell peppers, garlic, apple cider vinegar, water, powdered pectin, salt, and granulated erythritol as the sweetener.
Can I adjust the heat level in sugar-free pepper jelly?
Yes, you can adjust heat by varying the amount of jalapeño peppers or removing seeds for less heat, personalizing the jelly to your taste.
What tools are essential for making sugar-free pepper jelly?
Essential tools are a cutting board, sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons, a large stainless steel saucepan, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, and canning jars with accessories for safe storage.
How do I know when the jelly is cooked properly?
Perform the classic plate test by placing a small drop of jelly on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, the jelly is ready.
How should I store sugar-free pepper jelly?
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place where they can last up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within several weeks to maintain flavor.
Is sugar-free pepper jelly suitable for diabetics?
Yes, it uses sugar substitutes like erythritol, making it a suitable low-carb option for diabetic-friendly diets.
What are some serving suggestions for sugar-free pepper jelly?
Use it to enhance appetizers, main dishes, sandwiches, wraps, and even breakfast items. It pairs well with cream cheese, grilled meats, and eggs.
Why is precise measuring important when making pepper jelly?
Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavor, sweetness, and jelly consistency, helping pectin activate properly for the perfect texture.
Do I need to sterilize jars for storing pepper jelly?
Yes, sterilizing jars by washing and boiling prevents contamination, ensuring shelf stability and safety for long-term storage.