Introduction to Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to preparing delicious snacks. That’s why I absolutely adore this Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese. It’s a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can elevate any gathering or simply brighten up a quiet evening at home. This recipe is not just quick to whip up, but it also impresses everyone who tries it. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating your family, this jam is a perfect solution for a busy day!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
This Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese is a game-changer for busy lives. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The sweet and spicy combination is a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it at parties, family gatherings, or even as a delightful snack. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients for Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh cranberries: These little gems are the star of the show, providing a tartness that balances the sweetness of the sugar.
- Sugar: This sweetener helps to create that luscious jam texture while enhancing the cranberries’ natural flavor.
- Red bell pepper: Diced for a pop of color and a mild sweetness, it adds a lovely crunch to the jam.
- Jalapeño pepper: For those who enjoy a kick, this pepper brings the heat! Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Apple cider vinegar: This tangy ingredient brightens the flavors and helps with the jam’s preservation.
- Cream cheese: The creamy base that pairs perfectly with the jam, creating a rich and satisfying spread.
- Crackers or bread: These are your vehicles for delivering the delicious jam and cream cheese combo to your taste buds!
For those looking to experiment, consider adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist or swapping the jalapeño for a milder pepper if you have picky eaters at home. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time!
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Toss in the fresh cranberries, sugar, diced red bell pepper, diced jalapeño pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together until well mixed. The vibrant colors of the ingredients will make your heart sing! This is where the magic begins.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture heats up, you’ll hear the cranberries start to pop. This is a good sign! Keep stirring occasionally. After about 10-15 minutes, the cranberries will burst, and the mixture will thicken into a jam-like consistency. The sweet and spicy aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 3: Cool the Jam
Once the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it cool to room temperature. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can even pop it in the fridge for a quicker cool-down if you’re in a hurry!
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese
While the jam cools, it’s time to prepare the cream cheese. Take an 8 oz block of cream cheese and let it soften a bit at room temperature. Once it’s nice and creamy, spread a generous layer on your favorite crackers or slices of bread. This creamy base is what makes the jam truly shine!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now comes the fun part! Top the cream cheese with a spoonful of your homemade cranberry pepper jam. The contrast of the creamy cheese and the sweet-spicy jam is simply divine. Serve immediately and watch your family and friends devour this delightful treat!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; frozen can work in a pinch.
- Adjust the jalapeño to suit your family’s spice tolerance; start small!
- Let the jam cool completely before serving for the best texture.
- Make a double batch and store some in the fridge for later.
- Experiment with different peppers for unique flavor profiles!
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan: A regular pot works too if you don’t have one.
- Wooden spoon: Use any sturdy spoon for stirring; a spatula can work as well.
- Measuring cups: If you don’t have these, use a regular coffee mug for rough estimates.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping the peppers; a simple plate can suffice in a pinch.
Variations of Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick if you love heat!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing twist.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
- Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider for a refreshing drink option.
- Serve alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Offer a variety of crackers, including whole grain and gluten-free options.
- Present on a beautiful wooden board for an inviting display at gatherings.
FAQs about Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can! While fresh cranberries are ideal for flavor, frozen cranberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
How long can I store the cranberry pepper jam?
This jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
Can I make this jam ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with cranberry pepper jam?
This jam pairs wonderfully with cream cheese on crackers or bread. You can also serve it with cheese platters or as a topping for grilled meats!
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan-friendly, simply swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative. The jam itself is already vegan!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese is more than just a cooking task; it’s a joyful experience that brings people together. The sweet and spicy flavors dance on your palate, making every bite a delightful adventure. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this recipe is sure to spark smiles and compliments. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of this jam brighten your day!
Print
Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese: A Perfect Pair!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Pepper Jam with Cream Cheese is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for spreading on crackers or toast.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeño pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Crackers or bread for serving
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, and apple cider vinegar.
- Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Spread cream cheese on crackers or bread.
- Top with the cranberry pepper jam and serve.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño for desired spiciness.
- This jam can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Great for holiday gatherings or as a gift.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
