Red Pepper Jelly

This Red Pepper Jelly is a vibrant and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. Its sweet and spicy notes make it an excellent addition to your appetizer spread, served over cream cheese with crackers. Not only does it stand out on a holiday table, but it also makes for a thoughtful gift. Discover how easy it is to create this delightful jelly that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of sweet red bell peppers and a hint of jalapeño creates a unique flavor profile that pairs well with various dishes.
• Perfect for Gifting: Jars of homemade jelly make fantastic gifts during the holiday season or special occasions.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Serve this jelly over cream cheese for an instant hit at parties or gatherings.
• Long Shelf Life: Properly canned, this jelly can last for months, allowing you to enjoy it anytime.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Red Pepper Jelly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars
• Lids
• Hot water canner
• Large saucepan
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your jelly safely while ensuring freshness.
• Hot water canner: Helps in processing the jars to prevent spoilage and ensures proper sealing.
• Large saucepan: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

This Red Pepper Jelly makes a delicious holiday appetizer served over cream cheese with crackers. It also makes a gift idea. Learn how to make it with this simple recipe.

For the Jelly Base

• 3 cups finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 (1.75 ounce each) packages SURE-JELL powder pectin
• 5 cups white sugar

For Serving

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 box crackers

How to Make Red Pepper Jelly

Step 1: Prepare Your Jars

Begin by sterilizing six 8-ounce canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Start heating water in a hot water canner for processing.

Step 2: Cook the Peppers

Place the red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and jalapeño peppers into a large saucepan over high heat. Mix in the apple cider vinegar and Sure-Jell pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Add Sugar

Quickly stir in the sugar once boiling. Return to a rolling boil and boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.

Step 4: Fill Your Jars

Ladle the jelly into your prepared jars, filling each to 1/4 inch from the top. Cover with flat lids; then screw on the bands tightly.

Step 5: Process the Jars

Place the jars into the canning rack, slowly lowering them into the canner. Ensure that hot water covers the jars completely but is not boiling. Bring water to a boil and process for five minutes.

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely.

Step 7: Serve Your Appetizer

To serve, place a block of cream cheese on a plate. Spoon red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese and serve with crackers.

Enjoy your homemade Red Pepper Jelly as an appetizer or gift!

How to Serve Red Pepper Jelly

Red Pepper Jelly is a versatile and flavorful spread that enhances many dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious jelly.

With Cream Cheese

• Place a block of cream cheese on a platter and spoon the red pepper jelly over it for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

On Crackers

• Serve red pepper jelly on top of various crackers for a crunchy, savory snack. Choose plain or flavored varieties to add texture and taste.

As a Glaze

• Brush red pepper jelly over grilled meats such as chicken or turkey for a sweet and spicy glaze that enhances flavor.

In Sandwiches

• Spread red pepper jelly on sandwiches or wraps, especially with turkey, to add a pop of flavor that pairs well with deli meats.

With Cheese

• Pair red pepper jelly with assorted cheeses. It complements soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese beautifully, creating an irresistible cheese board.

In Salads

• Drizzle red pepper jelly over mixed greens or use it in dressings for salads to introduce sweetness and spice to your greens.

How to Perfect Red Pepper Jelly

Making Red Pepper Jelly can be simple, but perfecting it requires a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Choose Fresh Peppers: Use vibrant, fresh peppers for the best flavor and color in your jelly.
• Measure Accurately: Precise measurements of ingredients ensure the right consistency and sweetness in your jelly.
• Maintain Boiling Temperature: Keep the mixture at a rolling boil after adding sugar to achieve proper gelling.
• Skim Foam: Remove any foam from the surface before canning to ensure a clean presentation in jars.
• Check Seals: After cooling, check that the lids have sealed properly by pressing down in the center; it should not pop back up.

Best Side Dishes for Red Pepper Jelly

Red Pepper Jelly pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.

1. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can balance the sweetness of red pepper jelly while offering different textures and flavors.
2. Vegetable Crudités: Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide crunch and freshness that complements the jelly’s sweetness.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables bring out earthy flavors that contrast nicely with the sweet heat of red pepper jelly.
4. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges add natural sweetness and are delicious when dipped into red pepper jelly.
5. Hummus: This creamy dip provides a great base for spreading or dipping, pairing well with the flavors of red pepper jelly.
6. Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips offer a satisfying crunch that works well with both cream cheese and red pepper jelly combinations.
7. Olive Tapenade: The briny taste of olive tapenade contrasts nicely with the sweet notes of red pepper jelly, creating a delicious combination.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can be served alongside as an elegant complement to your red pepper jelly appetizer spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Pepper Jelly can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Boldly skip the sterilization: Failing to sterilize your jars can lead to spoilage. Always sterilize jars and lids before use.
• Boldly ignore the pectin instructions: Not following the pectin package directions can alter the jelly’s texture. Make sure to measure pectin accurately for best results.
• Boldly rush the boiling process: Boiling the mixture too quickly or not long enough can impact consistency. Ensure you reach a rolling boil and time it properly.
• Boldly overlook cooling time: Removing jars too soon from the canner can cause them to seal improperly. Allow them to cool completely after processing.
• Boldly misjudge serving size: Assuming everyone will eat just one cracker with jelly can lead to disappointment. Prepare extra servings, as this is a popular appetizer!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Make sure jars are sealed properly before refrigeration.

Freezing Red Pepper Jelly

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 year.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Red Pepper Jelly

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place jelly in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring between intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Pepper Jelly.

What is Red Pepper Jelly?

Red Pepper Jelly is a sweet and spicy condiment made from red bell peppers, sugar, and vinegar. It’s perfect as a topping for cream cheese or as part of various dishes.

How long does homemade Red Pepper Jelly last?

Homemade Red Pepper Jelly can last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator or up to 1 year if frozen properly.

Can I customize my Red Pepper Jelly recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño for heat or mix in other sweet peppers for different flavors.

Is Red Pepper Jelly suitable for gift-giving?

Yes, it makes an excellent gift! Just package it nicely in jars with labels and ribbons for a personal touch.

Can I use other types of peppers?

Yes! You can experiment with different bell peppers or even add a variety of chili peppers for unique flavor profiles in your jelly.

Final Thoughts

This Red Pepper Jelly recipe offers a delightful blend of sweetness and spice, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift. Experiment with flavors and textures by customizing ingredients according to your taste preferences!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Red Pepper Jelly

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 48 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant and zesty flavor of homemade Red Pepper Jelly, a delightful treat that elevates any appetizer spread or serves as a thoughtful gift. This easy-to-make jelly features the perfect balance of sweetness from red bell peppers and a kick from jalapeños, making it an irresistible addition to cream cheese and crackers. Enjoy it at holiday gatherings or special occasions; this versatile condiment is sure to impress your family and friends. With a long shelf life when properly canned, you can savor this delicious jelly whenever you desire.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño pepper
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 packages SURE-JELL powder pectin

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Instructions

1. Sterilize six 8-ounce canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions and heat water in a hot water canner.
2. In a large saucepan over high heat, combine red, green, and jalapeño peppers with apple cider vinegar and SURE-JELL. Stir constantly until it reaches a rolling boil.
3. Quickly add sugar, return to a rolling boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and skim off foam.
4. Ladle the mixture into sterilized jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Seal with lids and bands.
5. Process jars in the boiling water canner for five minutes before removing to cool completely.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Canning
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20g)
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg