If you are looking for the best Cranberry Jalapeno Jam recipe, look no further! I was pleasantly surprised with how delicious this jam is despite how sour cranberries can be. It is perfectly balanced and works great on poultry, biscuits, and even sandwiches!
Cranberry and lime is a classic combination. I initially thought adding lime juice and zest to the jam would make it too sour but it adds a wonderful twist. This recipe is not too sweet and not
If you like spicy jam recipes, you will love Pineapple Jalapeno Jam, Peach Jalapeno Jam, and Blueberry Jalapeno Jam.
Cranberry Pepper Jam vs Cranberry Pepper Jelly Recipe
Since jam includes whole fruit and jelly is made from juice, this recipe would have to be slightly altered to make it into jelly. The best way to turn this recipe into cranberry jalapeno jelly is to strain the cooked cranberries with a fine mesh strainer. I also recommend adding pectin to achieve the gel consistency.
Why You Will Love This Cranberry Jam Recipe
- Great for Thanksgiving: Use this jam as a spicy twist on traditional cranberry sauce!
- Budget-friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients so it’s perfect for any budget.
- Versatile condiment: You can use this cranberry jam recipe in both baked treats and savory dishes.
Ingredients
You only need 4 ingredients for this recipe. It’s so easy to achieve a delicious cranberry jalapeno jam without pectin.
- Cranberries: I use frozen cranberries in this recipe because they are available all year round. I love the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries. They are a little sour but when added to other ingredients it balances out.
- Sugar: This will both sweeten and help thicken the cranberry pepper jam.
- Jalapenos: The fresh jalapenos are what bring the heat. I don’t find them overpowering this recipe. You may adjust the amount you use if desired.
- Lime: Cranberry and lime are a fabulous combo! They really complement each other.
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.
Variations
- Rosemary cranberry jalapeno jam: Steep fresh rosemary in the jam as it cooks for an earthy and aromatic cranberry jam recipe.
- Balsamic cranberry jam: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the jam for a rich and complex spicy cranberry jam.
- Spiced jalapeno cranberry jam: Either use whole cinnamon and cloves or ground for a spiced version that is perfect for the holidays.
- Mint cranberry jam: Add finely chopped mint for extra freshness.
How to Make Cranberry Jalapeno Jam
It takes minimal effort to make a delicious jam at home. Below you will find all of the instructions you will need for this recipe.
Step 1:Add all ingredients and let them sit. Combine the cranberries, sugar, jalapenos, and lime juice/zest in a saucepan. Allow the ingredients to sit together in the pan for about 5-10 minutes to release some of the liquid.
Step 2: Heat the mixture. Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat to start to break down the berries.
Step 3: Cook. Once the cranberries start to burst and the sugar is dissolved, break up the berries with the back of a spoon or a potato masher. Raise the heat slightly and let the jam cook for 25-30 minutes or until it reaches 220 degrees F.
Step 4: Cool. Remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool enough to handle it safely.
Step 5: Store: Transfer the cooled spicy jam to the glass jars and place them in the refrigerator until you are ready to use them.
⭐️ Hint: Have all of your ingredients prepped before you start; measure them and juice/zest the lime so you’re not rushing through the recipe.
If you love recipes like this one, you may also enjoy this Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce.
Storage Directions
- Refrigeration: Store the tightly closed jars of jam in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Freezing: Place the jars in the freezer when completely cooled for 4-6 months. Leave about an inch at the top so the jam has space to expand as it freezes. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying it!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this cranberry jam spooned over Slow Cooker Turkey Wings, as a dip for Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs, or spread on Leftover Turkey Dinner Muffins.
- Mix some of the jam into a Cranberry Margarita for a spicy kick.
- Spread the jam on Coconut Biscuits or Cream Cheese Biscuits to add a hint of heat to a sweet treat.
Recipe Tips
- Sterilize the jars: To prevent bacterial growth, ensure that your jars are clean and sterilized before you store the jam.
- Use a candy thermometer: I recommend that you use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches the right temperature.
- Remove the pepper seeds: Leave out the jalapeno seeds for less heat.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. I like to use frozen because fresh cranberries are seasonal. However, if you can get your hands on fresh berries, there’s no need to change any part of the recipe.
It is likely that it hasn’t reached the ideal temperature yet. Check it with a thermometer and let it cook a little bit longer to thicken.
Sure! Lemon works great with cranberries, too!
More Delicious Cranberry Dishes
Do you like cranberry recipes? Here are some recipes you may also like to try.
Ready to get cooking? Remember that you can print this recipe if you would like.
Cranberry Jalapeno Jam
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberries (frozen)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup jalapeno peppers finely minced (about 2-3 small peppers)
- 2 Tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest
Instructions
- In a large sized saucepan, combine all ingredients and stir until combined. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes or until liquid releases into the bottom of the pan.
- Place over medium high heat and stir until the berries begin to burst and sugar is dissolved.
- Use a potato masher, or the back of the spoon to press the berries until smooth.
- Increase the temperature slightly and cook until the jam reaches 220 degrees, stirring every few minutes. This will take about 25-30 minutes.
- Remove jam from heat and allow to cool slightly, before transferring to jars for storage.
Notes
- Sterilize the jars: To prevent bacterial growth, ensure that your jars are clean and sterilized before you store the jam.
- Use a candy thermometer: I recommend that you use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches the right temperature.
- Remove the pepper seeds: Leave out the jalapeno seeds for less heat.
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