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A group of glass jars filled with red and green homemade preserves or jelly, sealed with metal lids, are stacked on a wooden surface with a white tiled background.

Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe

This hot pepper jelly recipe is a family favorite that connects me back to my mom and grandma, who taught me the basics of canning.
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Processing Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
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Ingredients

  • 3 bell peppers
  • 2-3 hot peppers
  • 5 cups white sugar
  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • 1 package pectin

Instructions

  • Finely chop the bell peppers and hot peppers using a sharp knife or food processor. If you’re using jalapeños or serrano peppers, wear rubber gloves and remove the ribs and seeds to control the heat level.
  • Squeeze out any excess liquid with a strainer or paper towels so the mixture isn’t too watery.
  • Place the chopped peppers in a large saucepan, then add the sugar and vinegar to the pot, stir well, and bring to a full rolling boil over high heat. Keep an eye on it—the mixture foams up quickly.
  • Stir in the pectin, then continue boiling for 15 minutes while stirring often. The mixture should thicken and the flavors will deepen.
  • Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized half pint jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean with a towel, place jar lids on top and secure with a screw band.
  • Process the jars in a boiling-water canner for 10 minutes. Remove carefully with a jar lifter and set on tea towels to cool completely. Check that all lids have sealed before storing in a cool dark place.

Notes

  • Use a food processor for quick chopping, but don’t over-process or the mixture will get mushy.
  • Always wear rubber gloves when handling jalapeño peppers or habanero peppers to protect your skin from the heat.
  • If your jelly doesn’t set, reheat the mixture and add a bit more powdered pectin or liquid pectin.
  • Make red and green batches for a festive Christmas look—perfect for holiday gift giving.
  • For a smoother jelly, strain the mixture before adding the pectin.