If you’ve never tried homemade pepper jelly, you’re in for a delicious surprise! This vibrant, sweet-and-spicy jelly is perfect for spreading on crackers with cream cheese, glazing meats, or adding a fiery twist to your favorite dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can make a batch of this golden-red goodness right in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into how to make the best pepper jelly recipe today!
🫙 What Is Pepper Jelly?
Pepper jelly is a sweet and spicy preserve made from a blend of bell peppers, chili peppers, sugar, and pectin. It’s a Southern favorite — glossy, colorful, and packed with bold flavor.
You can make it mild, medium, or extra hot depending on the types of peppers you use. The result? A perfect balance of heat and sweetness that elevates everything from cheese boards to grilled chicken.
🌶️ Ingredients You’ll Need
To make about 4 (8-ounce) jars of pepper jelly, gather these simple ingredients:
1 cup finely chopped red bell peppers
1 cup finely chopped green bell peppers
¼ cup finely chopped jalapeño peppers (or more for extra heat)
1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
5 cups granulated sugar
1 (3-ounce) pouch liquid pectin (such as Certo or Sure-Jell)
A pinch of salt
💡 Pro Tip: You can swap jalapeños for habaneros if you love it spicy — just be cautious, they’re much hotter!
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your own pepper jelly in minutes:
🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Wash, seed, and finely chop your peppers. You can use a food processor for this step, but don’t puree — you want small, even pieces for texture.
🫕 Step 2: Cook the Peppers
In a large saucepan, combine chopped peppers, vinegar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes. This softens the peppers and blends the flavors.
🍯 Step 3: Add Sugar
Stir in all the sugar and bring the mixture back to a full, rolling boil — one that doesn’t stop bubbling when stirred. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
💡 Tip: Sugar is what gives the jelly its shine and sweetness, so don’t reduce it too much.
🧪 Step 4: Add the Pectin
Quickly stir in the liquid pectin, and return to a full boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. Then remove the pot from heat.
💡 Pro Tip: Timing is key here — boiling too long can make the jelly too firm; too short, and it may not set.
🫙 Step 5: Jar the Jelly
Carefully pour the hot jelly into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace.
Wipe rims clean, apply lids, and tighten bands just fingertip-tight.
If you plan to store them long-term, process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Otherwise, refrigerate once cool.
❄️ Storage
Refrigerator: Lasts up to 1 month.
Pantry (sealed jars): Up to 1 year.
Freezer: Store for up to 6 months (leave space for expansion).
💡 Tip: The flavor deepens after a few days, so let it sit before serving for the best taste.
🍽️ How to Use Pepper Jelly
Pepper jelly isn’t just for toast — it’s one of the most versatile condiments you can make! Try it with:
✨ Cream cheese & crackers — the ultimate easy appetizer.
🥩 Glazed over meats — perfect on grilled chicken, pork chops, or salmon.
🥪 Sandwich spread — adds a kick to turkey or ham sandwiches.
🥗 Salad dressing — whisk into olive oil and vinegar for a spicy vinaigrette.
🧀 Cheese boards — pairs beautifully with Brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar.
🌿 Flavor Variations
Want to get creative? Try these delicious twists:
Mango Pepper Jelly: Add ½ cup pureed mango for tropical sweetness.
Pineapple Pepper Jelly: Mix in crushed pineapple for a tangy flavor.
Smoky Jalapeño Jelly: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or use chipotle peppers.
Herb-Infused Jelly: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary before jarring.
🔥 Expert Tips for Perfect Pepper Jelly
Use gloves when chopping hot peppers to protect your hands.
Keep stirring to avoid scorching the sugar.
Test for set: Drop a spoonful on a cold plate — if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready!
Brighten the color with a few drops of red or green food coloring (optional).
Label your jars — they make great gifts! 🎁
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in under 30 minutes
Only 6 ingredients
Stores beautifully for months
Perfect for gifting or entertaining
Customizable from mild to fiery-hot
🌶️ Conclusion: Try This Pepper Jelly Recipe Today!
Sweet, tangy, and full of personality — this homemade pepper jelly will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you spread it on cream cheese, glaze your meats, or give it as a homemade gift, it always brings a burst of flavor that wows everyone.
So grab your peppers and a pot — and try this pepper jelly recipe today! 🌶️✨