If you love the vibrant, tropical flavor of pineapple and aren’t afraid of a little heat, this Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly is about to become your next kitchen obsession. With its sunny color and bold personality, this jelly walks the line between sweet and savory, making it as perfect on toast as it is alongside grilled meats. It’s a twist on classic jelly that adds a dash of excitement to breakfasts, cheese boards, and even weeknight dinners. Trust me, after one batch, you’ll find yourself dreaming up endless reasons to keep a jar on hand!

Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly shine is how just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and a gorgeous summery look. Each element serves a special purpose, and fresh ingredients make all the difference.

Pineapple (fresh or canned): Sweet, tangy, and juicy, pineapple is the star, providing both the flavor and the golden hue.
Granulated sugar: Essential for creating that glistening jelly texture and balancing pineapple’s natural acidity.
Lemon juice (fresh): Brightens up the jelly and helps set the pectin for a perfect semi-firm spread.
Chopped jalapeños or chili peppers: Brings the gentle heat that makes this jelly so irresistible, but you control the spice level!
Pectin powder: Guarantees your jelly sets up beautifully every time—look for this in the canning aisle.
Salt: Just a pinch to make all the sweet and spicy notes pop.

How to Make Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly

Step 1: Prep Your Pineapple

Start by peeling, coring, and finely chopping your pineapple. If using canned, just drain and chop the fruit into small bits. The smaller the pieces, the smoother your jelly will be. For the best flavor, use ripe pineapple that smells fragrant and gives slightly to the touch.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large, non-reactive saucepan, combine the pineapple, sugar, lemon juice, and chopped jalapeños. Stir gently to evenly mix everything and to start dissolving the sugar. The color in the pot will be absolutely gorgeous—don’t be surprised if you have to take a photo!

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring occasionally. As the jelly starts bubbling away, the pineapple and peppers soften, releasing even more flavor and color into the mix.

Step 4: Add the Pectin

Sprinkle in the pectin powder, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps. This magical step transforms your mixture from a fruit sauce into Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly. Keep boiling for a minute or two, then skim off any foam from the surface.

Step 5: Jar and Cool

Ladle the hot jelly into sanitized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Wipe the rims, screw on the lids, and let them cool undisturbed. If you’re planning to store for longer, follow proper canning procedures. Once cooled, the jelly will set up into that familiar, glorious texture!

How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly

Garnishes

Add a little flair by topping your jelly spread with fresh chopped cilantro, thin slices of chili, or even a sprinkle of smoked salt. These little touches can make everything from a simple toast to a fancy cheese platter feel a bit more special.

Side Dishes

This jelly is sublime beside creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, or spooned over grilled chicken, pork, or fish. It also brings a lively kick to breakfast fare—think fluffy pancakes or buttery biscuits.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly in small mason jars or tuck a jar into a homemade gift basket. For parties, swirl it into yogurt for a tropical dip or glaze roasted veggies for a surprising twist—guests will beg for the recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once opened, store your jelly in the refrigerator, tightly sealed. It will keep its brilliant color and lively taste for up to three weeks—if you can resist finishing it before then!

Freezing

Want to hang onto summer flavors longer? Pour cooled Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly into freezer-safe containers, leaving headspace. It freezes beautifully for up to six months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If your jelly thickens more than you like, simply warm the portion you want in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring in a splash of water if needed. It will loosen right up, ready for spreading or drizzling.

FAQs

Can I adjust the heat level in Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly?

Absolutely! Customize the spiciness by choosing milder or hotter peppers, and by adjusting how much you add. Deseed for less heat or keep some seeds for a sillier kick—it’s all about your taste.

Do I need special equipment to make this jelly?

No fancy tools are necessary; just a good saucepan, sturdy spoon, and jars for storage. If you plan on long-term storage or gifting, a canning funnel and jar tongs make life easier but aren’t must-haves.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes! Canned pineapple works perfectly, especially when fresh isn’t in season. Just make sure to choose pineapple packed in juice, not syrup, for best results and to keep the jelly from getting overly sweet.

How do I know when the jelly has set?

Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil with pectin, spoon a bit onto a chilled plate—if it wrinkles and holds its shape when pushed, it’s good to go. Don’t worry, it will set more as it cools!

What can I serve Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly with besides breakfast items?

The possibilities are endless! Try it with grilled shrimp, as a glaze for pork, blended into vinaigrettes, or even paired with creamy cheeses for a standout appetizer plate.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about making your own Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly—the colors, the aroma, and the surprise it brings to every bite. Don’t hesitate to give it a try, experiment with your favorite spice level, and watch as it becomes a cherished staple in your kitchen. Your toast, and your taste buds, will thank you!

Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly Recipe

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5.3 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Makes about 4 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional jellies. The combination of sweet pineapple and a hint of spicy chili creates a unique and flavorful spread that is perfect for pairing with cheeses or as a glaze for meats.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly:

1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and diced
2 red chili peppers, finely chopped
3 cups sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 packet powdered pectin
Water

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Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple: In a blender, puree the diced pineapple until smooth.
Cook the Jelly: In a large pot, combine the pineapple puree, chopped chili peppers, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Add Pectin: In a separate bowl, mix the powdered pectin with water according to the package instructions. Stir the pectin mixture into the pot of simmering pineapple mixture.
Simmer: Continue to simmer the mixture until it thickens and reaches the desired jelly consistency.
Can the Jelly: Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Seal the jars and process them in a water bath canner according to canning guidelines.
Cool and Enjoy: Allow the jars to cool and set for at least 24 hours before enjoying your Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Jelly.