Red Pepper Jelly Recipe (Easy Homemade Version)

If you’ve been searching for the perfect red pepper jelly recipe, you’re in the right place. This sweet, slightly spicy, glossy homemade jelly is one of those simple recipes that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make.

Whether you want a standout holiday appetizer, a homemade gift, or just something new to spread over cream cheese and crackers, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and packed with bold flavor.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make homemade red pepper jelly step by step, plus tips for canning, storing, and serving. I’ll also naturally integrate popular search terms like:

• Homemade Pepper Jelly Ideas
• Chili Jelly Recipe
• Peppered Jelly
• Preserving Peppers With Jelly
• Hot Cherry Pepper Jelly
• How To Make Chili Jelly
• Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly
• Red Bell Pepper Jelly

Let’s get started.

What Is Red Pepper Jelly?

Red pepper jelly is a sweet and mildly spicy jelly made from red bell peppers, vinegar, sugar, and pectin. It’s often served as an appetizer over cream cheese with crackers.

It’s sometimes called:

• Red Bell Pepper Jelly
• Peppered Jelly
• Chili Jelly Recipe (when using hot peppers)
• Hot Cherry Pepper Jelly (when using cherry peppers)

The flavor is sweet first, then slightly tangy, with a gentle heat at the end.

Why This Red Pepper Jelly Recipe Works

This version is:

• Easy for beginners
• Budget-friendly
• Perfect for gifting
• Great for holiday appetizers
• Ideal for preserving peppers with jelly

It uses simple grocery store ingredients and gives consistent results every time.

Ingredients for Red Bell Pepper Jelly

You only need a handful of ingredients:

• 4 large red bell peppers
• 1–2 jalapeños (optional for heat)
• 5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
• 1 packet powdered pectin
• ½ teaspoon salt

Why Red Bell Peppers?

Red bell pepper jelly has a natural sweetness and vibrant color. If you want more heat, you can swap in:

• Cherry peppers (for hot cherry pepper jelly)
• Fresno chilies
• Serrano peppers

How To Make Chili Jelly (Step-by-Step)

If you’ve ever wondered how to make chili jelly, the process is straightforward.

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Remove seeds and stems. Pulse peppers in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed.

You want texture, not liquid.

Step 2: Cook the Base

In a large pot:

• Add chopped peppers
• Pour in vinegar
• Add salt

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add Sugar

Stir in sugar completely. Return to a rolling boil.

Step 4: Add Pectin

Sprinkle in pectin while stirring constantly. Boil for 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Test the Set

Place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it gels after cooling for 30 seconds, it’s ready.

Step 6: Jar It

Pour into sterilized jars. Seal immediately.

That’s it. You’ve made homemade red pepper jelly.

Want another crowd-pleasing party bite? Try these bacon wrapped water chestnuts next—they’re the perfect sweet-salty match with this red pepper jelly recipe.

Homemade Pepper Jelly Ideas (How to Use It)

This is where it gets fun.

1. Classic Appetizer

Spread over cream cheese and serve with crackers.

2. Glaze for Meat

Brush over:

• Chicken
• Pork chops
• Meatballs

It caramelizes beautifully.

3. Sandwich Spread

Add to grilled cheese or turkey sandwiches.

4. Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Twist

Mix half red pepper jelly and half cranberry sauce for a holiday-ready cranberry hot pepper jelly flavor.

Preserving Peppers With Jelly (Canning Guide)

If you want long-term storage, proper canning is essential.

Water Bath Canning Method

1. Sterilize jars in boiling water.
2. Fill jars leaving ¼ inch headspace.
3. Process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
4. Let cool undisturbed for 24 hours.

According to the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning, proper acidity (from vinegar) is crucial for safe preservation.

For official food safety guidelines, visit:
https://nchfp.uga.edu/

Once sealed, jars last up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.

Variations: Hot Cherry Pepper Jelly & More

Hot Cherry Pepper Jelly

Use cherry peppers instead of bell peppers for a spicier version.

Chili Jelly Recipe (Extra Heat)

Add:

• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• Extra jalapeño

Low Sugar Version

Use low-sugar pectin and reduce sugar by 25%.

Peppered Jelly With Garlic

Add 1 minced garlic clove for savory depth.

Is Red Pepper Jelly Healthy? Calories & Nutrition Facts

Many people ask if red pepper jelly is healthy or weight loss friendly. Let’s break it down.

Calories in Red Pepper Jelly

Because it’s made with sugar, it’s considered a sweet condiment. A small serving (about 1 tablespoon) contains:

• Mostly carbohydrates
• Minimal fat
• Very little protein

It’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Is It a High-Protein Meal?

On its own, no. However, when paired with:

• Cream cheese
• Greek yogurt spreads
• Grilled chicken

It can be part of a balanced diet.

Nutrition Facts Overview

Red peppers provide:

• Vitamin C
• Antioxidants
• Small amounts of fiber

According to the USDA, red bell peppers are nutrient-dense vegetables rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene.

While this isn’t a weight loss food by itself, it can fit into a healthy meal plan when portion-controlled.

FAQs About Red Pepper Jelly Recipe

1. Why didn’t my red pepper jelly set?

Most common reasons:

• Not enough pectin
• Didn’t boil long enough
• Incorrect sugar ratio

2. Can I freeze red pepper jelly instead of canning?

Yes. Let cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 6 months.

3. How long does homemade pepper jelly last?

• Refrigerator: 3–4 weeks
• Properly canned: Up to 1 year

4. Can I make it without pectin?

Yes, but it requires longer cooking to reduce and thicken naturally.

5. What’s the difference between chili jelly recipe and red pepper jelly?

Chili jelly uses hot peppers as the main ingredient, while red bell pepper jelly focuses on sweetness with mild heat.

Final Thoughts on This Red Pepper Jelly Recipe

This red pepper jelly recipe is simple, affordable, and perfect for beginners. Whether you’re making homemade pepper jelly ideas for the holidays or preserving peppers with jelly for year-round use, this recipe delivers consistent results.

It’s sweet, slightly spicy, and endlessly versatile — from appetizers to glazes and sandwich spreads.

If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more budget-friendly preserves and easy homemade condiments on our site. And don’t forget to save this red bell pepper jelly recipe for your next gathering.