If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful condiment that brings a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes to your table, you’re going to fall in love with this Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of fresh cranberries mingled with the gentle warmth of jalapeños and the sweetness of red bell pepper, making each bite sparkle with holiday cheer or simply brighten up any meal. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or want to surprise your guests with something homemade and unforgettable, this jam is a quick and simple way to add an exciting twist to your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best thing about this Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe is that it uses straightforward ingredients you can find easily, yet each plays a crucial role in building its unique flavor profile. The tartness of cranberries, the sweetness of red bell pepper, and the spicy kick of jalapeños come together perfectly, with other staples adding depth and balance.
- 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: These little ruby gems bring the bold, tart foundation that defines the jam’s character.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Essential for sweetening and helping the jam set with a lovely consistency.
- 1/2 cup water: Provides the necessary liquid base for the cranberries to burst and release their juices.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness and enhances preservation.
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped: Offers a mild sweetness and vibrant color that lighten the texture.
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely minced: The star source of heat; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, pulling the whole jam together.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional): Adds warmth and a slight zing to elevate the complexity.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A final touch of acidity that sharpens and brightens the flavors just before finishing.
How to Make Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Simmer the Cranberries
Begin by placing the cranberries, sugar, water, and apple cider vinegar into a medium saucepan. Over medium heat, cook the mixture while stirring occasionally. Soon the cranberries will start to pop and release their juices, creating a lovely, bubbling syrup. This step usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes and is where the base flavor sets in beautifully.
Step 2: Add Peppers and Seasonings
Next, it’s time to bring the heat and color into the mix. Stir in the finely chopped red bell pepper and jalapeños along with the salt and optional grated ginger if you’re using it. Turn the heat down to low and let the jam simmer gently for another 10 to 12 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture should thicken up to that perfect jam-like consistency while letting all the flavors marry perfectly.
Step 3: Finish with Lemon Juice and Cool
Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice which gives the jam a bright finish and balances the sweetness and heat. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool for 10 to 15 minutes—the cooling also helps it thicken further. Once cooled, transfer your homemade jam to jars and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to two weeks, ready to add warmth and zest to your meals.
How to Serve Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe
Garnishes
When serving your Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe, consider garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or basil. These add visual appeal and introduce fresh herbal notes that complement the spicy-sweet jam beautifully, making your presentation all the more inviting.
Side Dishes
This jam is incredibly versatile and shines alongside roast turkey or chicken, where its vibrant flavors cut through the richness of the meat. It also pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like cream cheese or brie, perfect for a cheese board or simply spread over warm crackers. For a fun twist, use it as a glaze on grilled pork chops or mix into salad dressings for a punch of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the usual jar! Spoon your Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe into small ramekins or decorative bowls at your holiday table or house party. Combine it with whipped ricotta or mascarpone for a creamy spread, or dollop it onto crostini topped with goat cheese and a drizzle of honey—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe is made, keep it stored in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, so you can enjoy it over multiple meals or snacks without worry.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead of time or save a batch for later, freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. When frozen, it will maintain its taste and texture well for up to three months. Just make sure to leave a little headspace in your container as the jam may expand when frozen.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated jam, gently warm it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This softens the texture and brings out the aroma, making it perfect for spreading or glazing again. Avoid overheating to preserve the fresh flavors and vibrant color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones and are a convenient option when cranberries aren’t in season. Just thaw them slightly before cooking.
How spicy will the jam be if I include the seeds in the jalapeños?
Leaving the seeds in adds quite a bit more heat since that’s where a lot of the spice is concentrated. If you prefer milder heat, it’s best to remove the seeds, but feel free to adjust based on your taste buds.
Is it necessary to add the ginger?
The ginger is optional but highly recommended if you want a little extra zing and warmth. It complements the pepper and cranberry nicely, adding a subtle depth to the jam.
Can I can this jam for long-term storage?
While this recipe is perfect for refrigeration and freezing, traditional water bath canning is possible but requires careful sterilization and processing for safety. If you want to preserve it long-term, be sure to follow approved canning guidelines closely.
What are some other ways to use this Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe?
Try it as a sandwich spread to add a sweet and spicy kick, mix it into marinades, or swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for a surprising twist. Its bright flavors make it quite a versatile condiment beyond the classic pairings.
Final Thoughts
If you want to brighten up your meals with something homemade, exciting, and full of personality, the Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s simple to make, packed with flavors that surprise and delight, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed how such an easy recipe can become a fast favorite in your kitchen and beyond.
Print
Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam is a vibrant and spicy twist on traditional cranberry jam, combining fresh cranberries with red bell pepper, jalapeños, and a hint of ginger for a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and heat. Ideal as a condiment, it pairs wonderfully with cream cheese, crackers, roast turkey, or as a glaze for pork or chicken.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely minced (or leave seeds for more heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to burst, about 8–10 minutes.
- Add peppers and seasonings: Add the finely chopped red bell pepper, minced jalapeños, salt, and grated fresh ginger if using. Simmer on low heat for 10–12 more minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Finish and cool: Stir in the lemon juice and remove the saucepan from heat. Let the jam cool for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat intensity of the jam.
- This jam pairs exquisitely with cream cheese and crackers, perfect for holiday appetizers.
- It also makes a delicious glaze or accompaniment for roast turkey, pork, or chicken dishes.
