Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to the canning process this sweet and spicy pepper jam is the perfect project for you. This recipe from Blain’s Farm & Fleet combines spicy jalapeno peppers with sweet bell peppers for the perfect combination. This is a very versatile jam that you can enjoy in many different ways.
Homemade hot pepper jelly makes the perfect unique gift for a loved one. This jam also goes great over goat cheese or cream cheese and crackers or vegetables for a simple yet delicious appetizer. Adding as a glaze over roasted or grilled meats makes for a great sweet and spicy flavor. This jam also goes good as a spread on a sandwich or wrap.
Follow this step-by-step pepper jam canning recipe:
1. Finely Chop Peppers: Begin by washing and finely chopping bell peppers and jalapeño peppers. You can add more or less jalapeños depending on how spicy you want the hot pepper jam.
If you want the peppers have a more vibrant color leave them on a towel for 15-20 minutes to drain excess moisture. If you skip this step, it will not affect the taste of the jam and is completely optional.
2. Cook Peppers: Place peppers into a saucepan over medium-high heat. Then stir in the apple cider vinegar and fruit pectin. Bring this mixture to a boil while continuously stirring.
3. Add Sugar: Once this mixture comes to a boil, add in the sugar and stir until fully combined. Once mixture returns to a boil allow to boil for one minute then remove from heat. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
4. Put in Jars: Use a canning funnel to pour jam into sterile mason jars. Allow about a 1/2 inch of space at the top of the jar for expansion. Cover jar with lid and screw on jar band. For canning, jar lids must be new and not used.
5. Canning Process: To can the jam, heat the water in the water bath canner according to the instructions. Place the jars on the rack and cover with lid. Once the water is boiling you can process that the cans for 10 minutes or follow instructions on canner.
If you do not want to do the water bath canning, you can also store in airtight container and freeze for up to 6 months.
6. Decorate and Label: After finishing the canning process you can add a label, so you know exactly what it is. Pro tip, add the date and the date the jam expires so you can be sure to use it up before it goes bad. If gifting jam, add a bow, ribbon, or decoration to make it fun and personalized.
7. Storage: After canning pepper jam it can last on the shelf for up to 18 months in a cool dark place. Once opened store jam in the refrigerator and it will last for 7-10 days.
If you enjoyed this pepper jelly recipe, check out our other Canning Articles for more recipes and canning tips!
