Introduction

Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam is a sweet, tangy, and spicy homemade preserve that brings a delightful twist to your breakfast and snack options. This vibrant jam combines fresh cranberries, jalapeños, and a touch of vinegar to create a flavor profile that balances tartness with heat perfectly. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or using it as a glaze for meats, this jam is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate your dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s a unique combination of sweet and spicy, making it ideal for those who love flavors with a kick. Second, it uses fresh ingredients like cranberries and jalapeños, providing a healthy touch. Third, it’s incredibly versatile, serving as a sweet and spicy cranberry spread or an exciting glaze for grilled meats. Fourth, it’s easy to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes. Fifth, it makes a fantastic gift for friends and family during the holidays. Lastly, it pairs beautifully with cheese, enhancing your cheese boards, making it a perfect addition to your next gathering.

Ingredients for Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

Gather these items:

• 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed
• 2–3 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded for mild heat
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ cup water (optional)

How to Make Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Finely chop the peppers and measure the cranberries. Pulse briefly in a food processor if desired for a smoother texture.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, peppers, sugar, vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Step 3: Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until cranberries pop and the mixture thickens.
4. Step 4: Test for set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
5. Step 5: Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal, and cool completely.
6. Step 6: Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate after opening.

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

Keep these in mind:

• Perfect for cheese boards, glazes, or breakfast spreads.
• This jam balances tartness and heat beautifully for any occasion.
• Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your heat preference for a homemade spicy cranberry jam recipe that suits your taste.
• Ensure that all jars are properly sterilized to increase the shelf life of your cranberry pepper preserve.

Best Ways to Serve Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

This jam is incredibly versatile. Try it as a spicy cranberry jam spread on toast or bagels for breakfast, or use it as a glaze on grilled chicken or pork for dinner. It also pairs perfectly with cream cheese on crackers, making it a fantastic addition to your appetizer spread.

How to Store and Reheat Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

After making your jam, it’s essential to store it correctly to maintain its flavor. Once cooled, store the jam in a cool, dark place or refrigerate after opening. The jam can last for several months if sealed properly, allowing you to enjoy its sweet heat whenever you like. If you need to reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over low heat until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

What’s the secret to perfect Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam?

The secret lies in balancing the sweetness of the cranberries with the heat of the peppers. Start with fewer jalapeños if you’re unsure about the spice level, and adjust to your liking.

Can I make Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam ahead of time?

Absolutely! This jam can be made in advance and stored in sterilized jars. It makes for an excellent make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or gift-giving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your mixture is boiling before reducing the heat. Always test for set before transferring to jars to ensure the right consistency. Remember to sterilize your jars properly for longer shelf life.

Variations of Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam You Can Try

For a twist on this classic jam, consider using different types of peppers such as serrano or habanero for added heat. You can also mix in fruits like orange or pineapple for a unique cranberry jam with a kick. Another fun idea is crafting a cranberry pepper chutney by adding spices like ginger or cinnamon.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Easy Avocado Toast Recipe or learn how to make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. If you’re interested in preserving, you might find our Homemade Tomato Sauce recipe helpful!

Delicious Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe to Savor

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This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam is a sweet, tangy, and spicy homemade preserve made with fresh cranberries, jalapeños, and a touch of vinegar.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 cups 1x
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed
• 2–3 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded for mild heat
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ cup water (optional)

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Instructions

1. Finely chop the peppers and measure the cranberries. Pulse briefly in a food processor if desired for a smoother texture.
2. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, peppers, sugar, vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until cranberries pop and the mixture thickens.
4. Test for set by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
5. Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal, and cool completely.
6. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate after opening.

Notes

• Perfect for cheese boards, glazes, or breakfast spreads.
• This jam balances tartness and heat beautifully for any occasion.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg