Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam

If you love bold flavors and unique twists on traditional recipes, this Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam is for you! It’s sweet, spicy, and tangy all in one a versatile condiment that will take your dishes to the next level. From cheese boards to glazed meats, this jam is as stunning as it is delicious. Plus, it’s an excellent gift idea for the holiday season!

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What Makes Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam So Special? 🎉

• Sweet & Spicy Harmony: The combination of fresh cranberries and hot peppers creates a balanced flavor that’s both sweet and spicy, with a touch of tanginess from vinegar and lemon.
• Perfect for the Holidays: Cranberries are a winter favorite, making this jam ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any seasonal celebration.
• Incredible Versatility: This jam pairs wonderfully with cheeses, crackers, and sandwiches, and makes an outstanding glaze for roasted meats.
• A Beautiful Gift: Homemade jam is a thoughtful and unique gift that’s sure to impress anyone on your list.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

To make this Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam, gather these simple ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh cranberries – The star of this jam! Their natural tartness brings out the flavors of the peppers and sugar.
• 2-3 hot peppers (jalapeños or serrano) – Adjust the heat level to your liking. Remove seeds for a milder kick, or keep them in for an extra spicy jam.
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy depth and helps preserve the jam.
• 1/4 cup lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors and adds a hint of acidity.
• 4 cups sugar – Balances the heat and tartness while giving the jam its syrupy, glossy texture.
• 1 pouch (3 oz) liquid pectin – Essential for achieving the right jam consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions 📋

Ready to make your own sweet and spicy jam? Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries and Peppers 🌶️

1. Rinse the Cranberries
   Start by rinsing 4 cups of fresh cranberries thoroughly under cool water. Remove any soft or damaged berries, as you want the freshest cranberries for your jam.
2. Finely Chop the Peppers
   Using 2-3 hot peppers (jalapeños for a milder heat or serrano peppers for extra spice), finely chop them. For less heat, remove the seeds before chopping. The amount of pepper is up to you—taste as you go if you’re unsure!
3. Set Aside
   Once prepped, set the cranberries and peppers aside. Now it’s time to get the mixture started.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture 🍲

1. Combine Ingredients
   In a large pot, add the cranberries, chopped hot peppers, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Stir to mix everything together.
2. Bring to a Boil
   Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add the Sugar 🍬

1. Gradually Add Sugar
   Once the mixture is boiling, gradually add 4 cups of sugar, stirring constantly. Adding the sugar slowly helps it dissolve smoothly and evenly.
2. Cook Until Berries Burst
   Continue cooking the mixture for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice that the cranberries will start to burst, creating a thick, ruby-red mixture. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens and the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Pectin 💧

1. Stir in the Pectin
   After the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened, add 1 pouch (3 oz) of liquid pectin. Stir well to incorporate it fully.
2. Bring to a Boil Again
   Once the pectin is in, return the mixture to a boil for 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial to activate the pectin, ensuring the jam sets properly once cooled.
3. Remove from Heat
   Take the pot off the heat and prepare to jar your jam.

Step 5: Jar the Jam 🍯

1. Sterilize Your Jars
   While the jam is cooking, make sure your jars are clean and sterilized. This step is essential for safe canning and long-lasting jam. Sterilize by boiling the jars in water for 10 minutes, then let them air dry.
2. Ladle the Jam into Jars
   Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace at the top. This allows for expansion as the jam cools.
3. Wipe the Rims and Seal
   Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth, then seal with lids and rings.

Step 6: Process the Jars 🫙

1. Boiling Water Bath
   To ensure the jam is shelf-stable, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Place the jars in a pot of boiling water, making sure they are fully submerged, and cover with a lid.
2. Remove and Cool
   After 10 minutes, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a towel. Allow them to cool, undisturbed, until the lids seal (you’ll hear a satisfying pop as each one seals!).
3. Check the Seals
   Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used first.

How to Serve Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam 🍽️

• With Cheese and Crackers: Pair this jam with a charcuterie board. It goes wonderfully with soft cheeses like brie, cream cheese, and goat cheese, adding a tangy, spicy kick.
• As a Meat Glaze: Use it as a glaze or topping for meats like roasted chicken, pork, or turkey. The sweet and spicy flavors complement savory meats beautifully.
• In Sandwiches: Spread a little jam on sandwiches or wraps, especially those with turkey or ham, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Over Cream Cheese: For an easy appetizer, spoon the jam over a block of cream cheese and serve with crackers or crusty bread. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser!

Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Pepper Jam 👩‍🍳

• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the number of peppers based on your heat preference. Jalapeños provide moderate heat, while serrano peppers add a bit more intensity. You can also mix and match for a balanced flavor.
• Check for Desired Consistency: The jam will thicken as it cools, but if you like a thicker jam, cook it a bit longer before adding the pectin.
• Make it Zesty: For extra zing, add a bit of orange zest to the cranberries and peppers before cooking. The citrus flavor pairs beautifully with cranberries and gives the jam a festive feel.
• Label Your Jars: If you’re making this jam as a gift, label each jar with the name and date. It makes for a personal, thoughtful touch.

Variations to Try

• Add Bell Peppers: If you prefer a milder jam, try adding diced bell peppers along with the hot peppers. It adds sweetness and color without the extra heat.
• Pineapple-Cranberry Jam: Substitute some of the cranberries with pineapple for a tropical twist. The sweetness of pineapple complements the spicy peppers beautifully.
• Herb-Infused Jam: For a unique flavor, add a sprig of rosemary or thyme during cooking. Remove the herb before jarring for a subtle, aromatic hint.

Storage and Shelf Life 📆

Properly canned, this jam will last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2-3 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions ❓

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh. Just thaw them slightly before cooking.

2. What if my jam doesn’t set?
If your jam is too runny, you can re-cook it with a bit more pectin to thicken it. Or, use it as a sauce—it’s still delicious!

3. Can I use powdered pectin instead of liquid?
Yes, but powdered pectin may require a different cooking time and method. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.

Final Thoughts on Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam 🌟

This Hot Pepper Cranberry Jam is a holiday delight that combines sweet, tart, and spicy flavors in perfect harmony. Whether you’re spreading it on crackers, using it as a glaze, or gifting it to friends, this jam is guaranteed to impress! Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors that only homemade jam can deliver.