The first time I made pepper jelly, the mix of sweet peppers and vinegar filled my kitchen with a warm, spicy scent. It’s simple to make, bright in color, and adds that perfect sweet heat to any cheese board or appetizer. I love pairing it with baked brie bites with cranberry or spooned over cream cheese for an easy pepper jelly dip everyone loves.

Recipe Card

Best pepper jelly Recipe

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• Author: danyrecipes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 3 cups (3–4 small jars)
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This sweet and spicy pepper jelly recipe is a colorful homemade favorite that brightens any appetizer spread. It’s perfect with cream cheese and crackers, drizzled over baked brie, or brushed onto meats for a glossy, flavorful glaze.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups red bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1 cup green bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and minced
• 3 cups sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin
• Optional: pinch of red chili flakes or ½ cup diced pineapple

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Instructions

1. Finely chop all peppers and remove seeds if you prefer a milder jelly.
2. In a large saucepan, combine peppers, sugar, and vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Simmer for 10 minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.
4. Add the pectin and return to a rolling boil for 1 minute.
5. Carefully pour into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool.
6. Refrigerate or water-bath can for longer storage.

Notes

For a fruitier flavor, add a bit of pineapple or mango before simmering.

This jelly pairs beautifully with puff pastry appetizers or baked brie bites with cranberry.

Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months; refrigerate after opening.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Condiment / Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients (Main + Optional Add-ins)

You don’t need much to make this bright, sweet, and slightly spicy pepper jelly recipe. Here’s what I reach for:

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups red bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1 cup green bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeds removed for mild heat
• 3 cups sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin

Optional Add-ins

• A pinch of red chili flakes for extra kick
• ½ cup diced pineapple for a fruity twist
• A splash of lemon juice for brightness
• Fresh rosemary or thyme if you want an herby touch

This pepper jelly comes together with simple pantry staples no fuss, no fancy tools. It’s the kind of recipe that invites creativity, whether you prefer it mild, sweet, or boldly spicy.

How to Make It (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Finely chop the red and green bell peppers along with the jalapeños. Remove the seeds if you want a milder jelly or leave a few for a spicier version.

Step 2: Cook the Base

In a large saucepan, combine the chopped peppers, sugar, and vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes your kitchen will fill with that signature sweet-and-spicy aroma.

Step 3: Add the Pectin

Stir in the liquid pectin, then bring the mixture back to a rolling boil for 1 minute. This helps the jelly set perfectly once cooled.

Step 4: Fill and Cool

Carefully pour the hot jelly into clean jars. Wipe the rims, seal tightly, and let cool at room temperature. You’ll notice it thickening as it cools.

Step 5: Serve or Store

Once cooled, refrigerate or process in a water bath for long-term storage. I love serving this glossy jelly with puff pastry appetizers or a simple cranberry cream cheese dip for a colorful party platter.

Serving Ideas

This pepper jelly is one of those kitchen treasures that fits anywhere from cozy brunch boards to elegant holiday spreads.

• As a Dip: Spoon it over a block of cream cheese for a quick pepper jelly cream cheese dip, or swirl it into a warm pepper jelly cheese dip with melted brie or goat cheese.
• With Appetizers: Try it with wonton cup appetizers or flaky bisquick sausage balls for that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• As a Glaze: Brush it over roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even salmon for a glossy, flavorful finish.
• For Snacking: I love pairing it with spinach artichoke dip on a snack board creamy meets spicy in the best way.

Once you start using it, you’ll find new ways to drizzle, spread, and savor every bit of it.

Bringing It All Together

Making homemade pepper jelly always reminds me why I love small-batch recipes they’re simple, colorful, and full of flavor that store-bought just can’t match. A few peppers, some sugar, and a bit of patience turn into something sweet, spicy, and beautifully versatile.

Whether you spread it over cream cheese for an easy appetizer or glaze it on roasted meats, this recipe adds warmth to any table. Pair it with artichoke dip or mini caprese skewers for an effortless party platter that feels homemade and special.

If you enjoy cozy, creative recipes like this, come join me on Pinterest and Facebook that’s where I share my newest dips, spreads, and sweet-spicy favorites. Save this one for later or share it with someone who loves a little homemade heat!