Make a show stopping condiment for a charcuterie board or jazz up your favorite snacks with this homemade red pepper jelly recipe.

Made with red bell peppers, a spicy jalapeno pepper, and sugar, this red pepper jelly is both sweet and spicy.

red pepper jelly recipe in small mason jars with lids

Recipe originally published on Our Zesty Life

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A Sweet and Zesty Jelly You’ll Relish

This versatile spread can be used on crackers with cream cheese, as a glaze over roasted veggies, or drizzled on grilled meats – the possibilities are endless.
Just a few fresh ingredients are all that is needed to create this fiesta for your taste buds.
Even if you are a novice cook, this recipe is simple and rewarding.
Package it in cute jars for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s always a hit.

sugar, red peppers, vinegar, salt, pectin, lemon, jalapeno and sugar assembled to make red pepper jelly recipe

Ingredients That Bring Sweet Heat

Red peppers and Jalapeno: This recipe features sweet red peppers for their vibrant color and natural sweetness, and a touch of jalapeno for customizable heat.

Sweet and Flavorful Ingredients: There is a perfect balance between sugar, vinegar, lemon juice and salt to create the ideal sweet-tangy flavor.

To Keep It Together: Pectin ensures the jelly will firm up to just the right consistency.

Creative Concoctions

Add ½ cup of diced mango for a tropical twist.
Swap the jalapeno for habanero if you dare. Or simply add or omit the jalapeno if you want it more or less spicy.
Stir in a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary for an interesting, earthy note.

ingredients in a pot to make red pepper jelly recipe

pureed ingredients in a pot for red pepper jelly recipe

How To Make Red Pepper Jelly

Prep peppers and jalapenos. Add all ingredients, except pectin, to a large pot.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook (according to recipe below)
Remove from heat, puree and add pectin. Bring to a boil.
Cool and add to prepared jars.

Savvy Suggestions

Don’t skip the pectin. It’s the key to just the right jelly consistency.
Be sure to skim the foam for a glossy and smooth finish.
Always use sterilized jars for freshness and long lasting jelly.

red pepper jelly recipe poured into small mason jars

Preservation Pro-Tips

If not processed for shelf-stability, this jelly must be kept refrigerated. While it’s best enjoyed within 2 months, it can often be safely refrigerated for up to 4 months.
This jelly can be frozen. Freeze jars for up to 6 months, but be sure not to fill the jars too full as you need to leave room for expansion.
If properly canned, these jars can last up to a year in a cool, dark pantry.

red pepper jelly recipe in a small jar on a charcuterie board

Seal the Deal – How To Process Pepper Jelly

Use a large pot that has a trivet or rack at the bottom to elevate the jars and prevent them from touching the pot directly.
Arrange jelly filled jars, with lids on, in the pot and carefully pour in boiling water until the jars are submerged by at least an inch.
Bring to a rolling boil. Maintain the boil for 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat and, using canning tongs, carefully lift the jars out of the water. Place them on a towel on the countertop to cool overnight.
Once cooled, check each lid by pressing down gently – it shouldn’t pop back. If a jar isn’t sealed properly, store it in the refrigerator.

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This sweet, spicy and delicious homemade red pepper jelly recipe is your ‘ticket win it’ in the flavor category. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does. Please comment and rate the recipe below.

5 from 1 vote