Description
This Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly combines the sweet tropical flavor of pineapple with the bold heat of jalapeños to create a unique, sweet and spicy condiment perfect for glazing meats, spreading on crackers with cream cheese, or adding a kick to your favorite dishes. Easy to make and preserve at home, this vibrant jelly bursts with flavor and adds a delightful zing to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Produce
- 2 cups diced fresh or canned pineapple (drained)
- 2 cups sliced jalapeños (about 1/4-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (1.75 oz) packet fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large saucepan or pot, combine the diced pineapple, sliced jalapeños, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 to 7 minutes to slightly soften the peppers and meld the flavors.
- Add sugar and seasonings: Stir in the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Return the mixture to a full boil, stirring frequently to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the ingredients are well combined.
- Add pectin and boil: Once boiling, quickly add the fruit pectin. Boil the mixture hard for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and to activate the pectin for proper gel setting.
- Remove foam and rest: Take the pot off heat and carefully skim off any foam from the surface. Let the jelly sit for 5 minutes to allow it to slightly thicken and for the pineapple and peppers to distribute evenly throughout the jelly.
- Jar the jelly: Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving approximately 1/4-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal with sterilized lids and bands to prepare for processing.
- Process jars: Process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, adjusting time as necessary for altitude. This step ensures preservation and safety of the jelly.
- Cool and set: Allow jars to cool completely undisturbed. Check that the jars have sealed properly. Let the jelly rest for at least 24 hours before using to allow it to fully set and develop maximum flavor.
Notes
- For a milder jelly, remove seeds from half or all of the jalapeños before slicing.
- This jelly pairs deliciously with cream cheese and crackers, as a burger topping, or as a glaze on grilled meats.
- Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
- Refrigerate after opening and consume within a reasonable time for best quality.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
