Cranberry Pepper Jelly
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Cranberry Pepper Jelly recipe. Combining the sweet-tart taste of fresh cranberries with a hint of spice, this jelly is perfect for spreading on crackers or pairing with cream cheese for a quick and festive appetizer. Make your next party unforgettable with this simple yet impressive addition to your cheese board or charcuterie spread.
This Cranberry Pepper Jelly is not just any spread; it's a burst of flavor that brings a festive touch to any gathering. Whether you're enjoying it with a savory cheese plate or as a unique gift, it adds a special twist that everyone will love.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Cranberry Pepper Jelly is a unique condiment that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and spicy flavors. The fresh cranberries provide a delightful tartness, while the chopped red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color that enhances its visual appeal. This jelly is not just about taste; it showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create an exceptional dish that complements a variety of meals and snacks.
When served on crackers or with cream cheese, the jelly transforms ordinary appetizers into a festive delight. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for all occasions, from holiday parties to casual gatherings, ensuring your food spread remains exciting and memorable.
Easily Homemade
Making Cranberry Pepper Jelly at home is a surprisingly simple process that can be mastered by anyone, regardless of culinary experience. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this delicious jelly right in your kitchen. The cooking process not only fills your home with an enticing aroma but also invites family and friends to witness the magic of homemade preserves.
With a little patience and attention, you'll find that home-cooked jelly is far superior to store-bought options. Not only do you control the ingredients, but you also have the satisfaction of knowing that you created something special that your loved ones will enjoy.
Perfect for Gifting
Cranberry Pepper Jelly also makes for a thoughtful, homemade gift during the holiday season. Its beautiful color and delightful flavor combination present well in jars and can easily be customized with decorative labels and ribbons. Sharing a jar of this unique jelly with friends and family conveys warmth and appreciation, making it a perfect choice for gift exchanges or as a hostess gift.
Personalizing your jars with notes or pairing them with cheese and crackers can amplify the gifting experience, allowing your loved ones to enjoy not just the jelly, but an entire spread that elevates their gatherings.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cranberry Pepper Jelly Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 ounces) fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large pot, combine the cranberries, chopped red bell pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Add Sugar and Pectin
Once boiling, add the sugar and fruit pectin. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Cook the Jelly
Let the mixture boil for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens. You can test the thickness by placing a small amount on a cold plate; it should set as it cools.
Add Spice
Stir in the red pepper flakes and mix well to incorporate.
Bottle and Store
Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars and seal tightly. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Pepper Jelly with crackers or as an accompaniment to meats and cheeses.
Storage and Shelf Life
After making your Cranberry Pepper Jelly, it's important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Once sealed in sterilized jars, the jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a year. Always be sure to refrigerate any opened jars and consume them within a few weeks for the best flavor and quality.
For longer storage, consider canning your jelly using proper canning techniques. This not only extends the shelf life but also gives you the ability to enjoy the flavors of your jelly year-round. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Pepper Jelly pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Serve it as a topping on a charcuterie board with a selection of cheeses and meats for a stunning appetizer. Its sweet and spicy flavor complements creamy cheeses like Brie and tangy options like goat cheese perfectly.
For a unique twist, use the jelly as a glaze for meats such as chicken or pork. Brushing it on during cooking allows the flavors to enhance the dish, creating a deliciously balanced meal that's sure to impress.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is Cranberry Pepper Jelly delicious, but it also boasts some nutritional benefits. Cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content and potential health benefits, including urinary tract health and anti-inflammatory properties. Red bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, essential for a healthy diet.
By combining these nutritious ingredients into a jelly, you create a condiment that not only adds flavor to your meals but also incorporates beneficial nutrients, making your culinary creativity both tasty and health-conscious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used but be sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before use.
→ How long does the jelly last?
Properly sealed, it can last in the refrigerator for up to a year.
Cranberry Pepper Jelly
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Cranberry Pepper Jelly recipe. Combining the sweet-tart taste of fresh cranberries with a hint of spice, this jelly is perfect for spreading on crackers or pairing with cream cheese for a quick and festive appetizer. Make your next party unforgettable with this simple yet impressive addition to your cheese board or charcuterie spread.
Created by: Emma
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 cups
What You'll Need
Cranberry Pepper Jelly Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 ounces) fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine the cranberries, chopped red bell pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Once boiling, add the sugar and fruit pectin. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Let the mixture boil for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens. You can test the thickness by placing a small amount on a cold plate; it should set as it cools.
Stir in the red pepper flakes and mix well to incorporate.
Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars and seal tightly. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 50
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Sugars: 12g