Quick Pepper Jelly
A vibrant, sweet and spicy pepper jelly that pairs perfectly with cheese, crackers, or as a condiment, ideal for quick snacks or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup apple jelly ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Combine apple jelly and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan.
- Cook, stirring over low heat until the jelly melts, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a small bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste. If you don't have apple jelly, you can substitute it with grape jelly or another fruit jelly for a different flavor profile. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a last-minute appetizer at your next gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pepper jelly as a delightful spread on toasted baguette slices or cream cheese for a simple appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Fat-Free Chips for a healthier snack option or can be drizzled over grilled meats for a sweet and spicy glaze. Consider using it alongside a cheese platter or as a topping for a Rainy Day Dinner dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pepper jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to reheat it, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it reaches the desired consistency. This jelly can also be served cold straight from the fridge, making it versatile for various occasions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Pepper Jelly contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pepper jelly in advance?
Yes, this pepper jelly can be made ahead of time. In fact, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors. Just make sure to store it in a sealed container to keep it fresh until you're ready to serve it.
What can I use instead of apple jelly?
If you don't have apple jelly, you can substitute it with other fruit jellies like grape or raspberry jelly. Each will impart a unique flavor to the pepper jelly while maintaining the sweet and spicy balance. Just ensure the substitute jelly has a similar consistency for the best results.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegan diets since it uses apple jelly, which is typically made from fruit juice and sugar. Just double-check the jelly's ingredients to ensure it doesn’t contain any animal-derived products, and you can enjoy this delicious spread without any issues.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).