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    Home » Condiments » Pepper Jelly Recipe

    Pepper Jelly Recipe

    Published: Feb 16, 2023 by Megan Porta · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Make this pepper jelly recipe to spruce up your next piece of toast or peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Or serve with crackers and cream cheese for a delicious party appetizer!

    Hot pepper jelly jars, sitting next to a spoon and green peppers.

    Original post: October 2012 | Updated: February 2023

    Why This Recipe Works

    I have been making this pepper jelly recipe for years. It serves so many purposes in my delicious life. Read on for some of my favorite ideas for ways to use and serve this recipe, but for now you can take my word for it.

    The first time I made this jelly I was at my dad and stepmom’s house. I remember falling in love after taking my first taste of this nectar. It was spicy, peppery heaven in my mouth!

    If you are looking for new ways to enjoy jellies and jams, promise me you’ll give this hot pepper jelly recipe a try. It is a great appetizer that is also show-stopping, beautiful and totally delicious.

    Recipe Ingredients

    Hot pepper jelly ingredients lined up.

    Green bell pepper – For a sweeter end result and a burst of color, use orange or red bell peppers instead of green peppers.

    Jalapeño peppers – You may remove jalapeno seeds before adding to the recipe, or leave them in for a spicy jelly. If you are a super spice-lover, replace some of the green jalapeños with hot peppers such as habanero peppers.

    To create a red end result, use all red peppers along with red food coloring to create red pepper jelly. Note: Always wear rubber gloves when handling spicy peppers.

    Vinegar – Use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in this recipe.

    Fruit pectin powder – Pectin is a gelling agent, derived entirely from plants. It aids the jelly in gelling, so it is an important part of the recipe.

    Green food coloring – Adding food coloring creates a beautiful green jelly, but can be skipped if desired.

    Top view of mason jars filled with green jelly.

    How To Make Homemade Pepper Jelly

    In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the following ingredients. Place peppers in the bowl of a food processor first to easily dice before cooking, if desired. The food processor is not necessary and you may opt to chop peppers instead.

    • Green bell peppers
    • Jalapeno peppers
    • Sugar
    • White vinegar
    • Salt
    Pepper mixture and sugar in a saucepan.

    Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Wooden spoon stirring pepper mixture to form a jelly.

    Add:

    • Fruit pectin powder

    Bring to a boil to create a hot water bath. Remove from the heat and add 6 drops of green food coloring.

    Boiling jelly mixture in a saucepan.

    Use a ladle to transfer the pepper mixture into hot, sterilized jars to let the jelly set. Scrape any foam that has accumulated at the top.

    Seal mason jars tightly with hot lids and set in a cool place. The lids will pop as they seal. Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

    Recipe Notes

    • Make jalapeño pepper jelly even spicier by adding red pepper flakes or by using serrano peppers.
    • Feel free to use different types of peppers depending on sweetness and heat level you desire.

    Substitute Powdered Pectin For Liquid Pectin

    Liquid pectin can replace powdered pectin in this recipe! Use one packet of liquid pectin (each packet contains 3 ounces) for every 2 tablespoons pectin powder.

    Also, add the liquid pectin when the pan is removed from the heat and at the same time as the food coloring (if using).

    What To Do With Spicy Pepper Jelly

    • Spread the jelly over cream cheese that has been softened. Serve with salty crackers for a super easy appetizer.
    • Replace it with grape jelly in your next peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
    • Spruce up your next piece of toast with it.
    • Use as a glaze for pan fried pork chops!
    • Use as a dipping sauce for chicken wings.
    • These make such great gifts! Seal in half pint jars and put a fun label on it for holiday gifts.
    • Add a dish filled with this jam to a charcuterie board along with a variety of crackers, olives, cheese, salami and pickles.

    What To Eat With Pepper Jelly

    Pepper jelly is one of the most versatile condiments out there. There are so many tasty things to do with it! Read on for 24 delicious ideas about what to eat with green pepper jelly.

    Spoonful of hot pepper jelly being pulled from a mason jar.

    Water Bath Canning Without A Canner – A Step By Step Tutorial

    There’s no need to buy a water bath canner if you’re wanting to can a big batch or relish or jam! Use what you already have sitting in your kitchen. This technique works just as well.

    Step 1

    Carefully place jars (and their lids) into a large pot of cold water in a single layer. Turn the heat to medium high and bring to a full rolling boil. Do not stack jars and ensure they are all immersed in the water (open sides facing up) with approximately 2 inches of water extending up past the top of the jars.

    Jars being boiled in a large saucepan.

    Step 2

    When the jelly is prepared and ready for canning, set it out next to the saucepan with the jars. One by one, use a tongs to remove hot jars from the boiling water.

    Tongs pulling a mason jar out of boiling water.

    Fill with the hot jelly. Fill to about 1/2 inch from the top, wipe rim of each jar with a clean cloth and screw band on top. Screw as tightly as possible. Use an oven mitt for this step since the jars will be hot.

    Step 3

    After all jars have been filled and lidded, carefully return them to the boiling water and let boil for 10 minutes. Turn the burner off and remove the jars from the water once it has cooled down a bit. You may use a jar lifter for this step or carefully use a tongs and large spoon in tandem to pull and lift at the same time.

    Step 4

    Transfer jars to a flat surface and let sit for a few hours or overnight, or until the lids have sealed. You will hear an audible popping noise when a jar seals. Store sealed jars in a cool dark place until ready to use. Once the seal has been broken, store in the refrigerator.

    Top view of crackers lined up with cream cheese and hot pepper jelly.

    FAQ About Bell Peppers

    Are bell peppers good for you?

    Bell peppers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A and fiber. They also contain antioxidants, protecting against cardiovascular and other diseases.

    Are bell peppers spicy?

    Bell peppers are used for enhancing flavors in dishes and are not a hot or spicy pepper.

    Are bell peppers good for dogs?

    Bell peppers are safe for dog consumption. They are a healthy alternative snack to share with your pup. 

    Where to store bell peppers?

    Bell peppers should be stored in the crisper drawer in your refrigerator. When store properly, they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. After they have been cooked and stored, they will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

    Homemade Jam Recipes

    • Apple Pie Jam
    • Rhubarb Peach Jam
    • Mixed Berry Jam
    • Cherry Berry Jam
    Side view of green jelly jars lined up.

    Will you help add value to Pip and Ebby?
    If you make this recipe and love it, stop back and give it a 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and leave a comment. THANK YOU!

    Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe

    Make this pepper jelly recipe to spruce up your next piece of toast or peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Or serve with crackers and cream cheese for a delicious party appetizer
    3.63 from 8 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Condiments
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes
    Servings: 32
    Calories: 154kcal
    Author: Megan Porta

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup green bell peppers cored and ground
    • 3/4 cup jalapeno peppers ground
    • 6 cups granulated sugar
    • 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1.75 oz fruit pectin powder
    • 6 drops green food coloring optional

    Instructions

    • In a large saucepan, combine the green peppers, jalapeño peppers, sugar, vinegar and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • Add the pectin and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and add the food coloring. Pour the jelly, while hot, into sterilized, hot half-pint mason jars.
    • Seal tightly with hot lids and set in a cool place. The lids will pop as they seal. Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Serve with cream cheese and crackers.

    Notes

    What To Do With Spicy Pepper Jelly

    • Soften a block of cream cheese and pour the jelly over the top. Serve with crackers for a super easy appetizer.
    • Replace it with grape jelly in your next peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
    • Spruce up your next piece of toast with it.
    • This is such a great gift idea! Seal in jars and put a fun label on it for holiday gifts.
    • Add a dish filled with this jam to a charcuterie board along with a variety of crackers, olives, cheese, salami and pickles.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 40mg | Potassium: 14mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 1mg
    Did you make this recipe?If you loved this recipe, please rate the recipe and leave a comment below!
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Kelsey

      January 25, 2023 at 4:29 pm

      2 stars
      I followed the instructions to a T and even took Mike’s suggestion with the gelatin. it tastes and smells like straight vinegar. My first time making a jam/jelly. What could I have done wrong?

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        January 28, 2023 at 12:07 pm

        I’m sorry to hear that, Kelsey! So frustrating when you’re looking forward to a recipe. I have made this recipe several times and have never had this outcome so I’m stumped. Beyond the smell of vinegar (is it a new bottle, regular white vinegar?) was the color and consistency what you were expecting?

        Reply
    2. Mary

      December 17, 2022 at 5:56 am

      5 stars
      Love this recipe made some lastnight I will be making more in a day or two…

      Reply
    3. mike (The Jelly Man)

      September 13, 2022 at 12:26 pm

      I make and sell lots of jelly and jams at the farmers markets. Some gel better than others. If it doesn’t set you can save it by dumping it back in your pot, slowly bring it to a boil and add a package of unflavored gelatin and bowl about two minutes and it will usually set.

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        September 14, 2022 at 11:10 am

        Thank you for sharing that tip, Mike!

        Reply
    4. Amanda

      August 29, 2022 at 9:23 pm

      1 star
      Like other commenters this did not set! I followed the instructions to a t. Definitely something wrong with the recipe. I’ll go to the recipe in the pectin box—those never fail.

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        September 01, 2022 at 12:32 pm

        Hi Amanda, I’m sorry that you were having trouble with the recipe. That’s frustrating when you are excited to enjoy it. I will tell you that this recipe is not a thick jelly, it’s a thinner type consistency. You definitely could add some more pectin to achieve the consistency you were looking for.

        Reply
    5. Chef cheryl molenda

      August 28, 2022 at 4:15 pm

      1 star
      I did everything exact including measurements and i have pepper syrup instead of jelly-.- very disappointed as i make jam all the time but this was a complete waste of time and product . My aunt used to make pepper jelly all the time- just wish i could have found her recipe instead of this one. I do remember she used pectin instead of sure jel but not trying again 😔

      Reply
    6. Sherrie

      August 17, 2022 at 6:41 am

      A friend gave me some as a gift. I LOVE IT…am going to try to make some on my own.

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        August 17, 2022 at 11:28 am

        That’s a thoughtful gift, Sherrie! I hope you enjoy making it yourself and having more of it around!

        Reply
    7. Alyssa

      July 20, 2022 at 3:50 pm

      How many half pints does this recipe make?

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        July 22, 2022 at 12:00 pm

        Hi Alyssa, I believe it was 4-5 of them!

        Reply
    8. Susan Tolley

      July 29, 2017 at 8:27 pm

      In order to be sure your jelly will gel, before you start this recipe, place a saucer in the freezer. After you add your pectin, boil at least 3 minutes at a hard boil (one that can’t be stirred down). Remove saucer from freezer, drop about 5 or 6 drops of your jelly onto the saucer. wait about 10 to 15 seconds and run your finger through the jelly. If it is gelled then it is ready to jar up and process in a hot water bath, if not continue to let it boil 1 minute at the time until it gels on the saucer.

      Reply
    9. Donna Miller

      May 10, 2017 at 10:16 pm

      My local grocery has jalapeños on sale for 37cents a lb…am going to sisters in Mo first week in June.. Will it be all right to go ahead and clean and ground peppers now, then pack them on ice to take to Mo? Will it change the heat of thr pepper?

      Reply
    10. Bev

      October 20, 2015 at 8:15 pm

      Megan I had the same thing happen to me where it didn’t gel right. I read your comment about making sure that it simmered for a full 10 minutes and I even did the water bath for 10 minutes to make sure it would gel. I still have it sitting on my counter and it’s been over 24 hours. I gave some to my brother and he put his in the frig and it still hasn’t jelled. What can I do next time different? I made 12 jars, so I’m good for this year, but next year I’ll plant some more jalapenos and I’ll want to make this again.

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        October 21, 2015 at 12:49 am

        Hi Bev! I’d say cook it for a few minutes longer to ensure that it gels. Jellies can gel quickly, so I wouldn’t go too much past the 10-minute mark. Try 12 minutes and see how that goes! I hope this helps. I’ve made this recipe to these exact directions a handful of times and it has turned out perfectly every time. Hoping for the best for your next try! Thanks for reading!
        Megan

        Reply
      • christina gaffney

        July 22, 2020 at 3:06 pm

        i would say you have a wonderful syrup now, won’t this be yummy on some waffles or pancakes, i’m ready to do this myself so excited

        Reply
      • Mollyann

        December 17, 2022 at 1:03 pm

        5 stars
        my mom taught me as a girl and there were times jelly would take up to 2’weeks to set. homemade of course is usually a softer set as well.

        Reply
    11. Megan Porta

      October 07, 2014 at 11:52 pm

      Oh no, Bec! So sorry to hear that! Did you make sure the mixture was simmering for a full 10 minutes? If so, try a few minutes longer next time. I promise this recipe is worth it!!!
      Megan

      Reply
    12. Bec

      October 07, 2014 at 10:14 am

      Unfortunately mine didn't gel – is there anything I can do? Jars sealed well, but didn't gel overnight. Seems the peppers all rose to the top of the jars too. ?

      Reply
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