Sweet Heat Jalapeño Strawberry Jam

Introduction

Sweet Heat Jalapeño Strawberry Jam is a bold, flavor-packed spread that perfectly balances sweet, juicy strawberries with the gentle heat of fresh jalapeños. This jam is vibrant, glossy, and bursting with contrast—starting sweet on the tongue and finishing with a subtle, warming kick. It’s the kind of recipe that surprises people in the best possible way.

What makes this jam so special is its versatility. While it’s delicious spread on toast or biscuits, it truly shines when paired with savory foods. Think spooned over cream cheese with crackers, brushed onto grilled chicken, layered on burgers, or served alongside cheeses on a charcuterie board. The sweet heat elevates even the simplest dishes.

This homemade jam is easy to make and requires no special equipment beyond a saucepan. You control the sweetness, spice level, and texture, making it customizable for mild to fiery preferences. It’s perfect for gifting, entertaining, or keeping a jar in the fridge to add instant flavor to everyday meals.

If you love sweet-and-spicy flavor combinations, Sweet Heat Jalapeño Strawberry Jam is a must-try recipe that quickly becomes addictive.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and finely chopped

1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely minced (seeds removed for mild heat)

2 cups granulated sugar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons water

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit and Peppers

Wash, hull, and finely chop the strawberries. Mince the jalapeños very finely, removing seeds and membranes for less heat or leaving some for extra spice.

Step 2: Cook the Jam Base

In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, jalapeños, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to release juices and gently simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Jam

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly pour it into the simmering jam, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thick

Continue cooking for 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until the jam thickens and becomes glossy. The jam will thicken more as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to clean jars and allow to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Variations

Extra Spicy Jam: Add additional jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper.

Honey-Sweetened Version: Replace part of the sugar with honey.

Chunky Jam: Leave strawberries in larger pieces.

Smooth Jam: Blend briefly with an immersion blender.

Strawberry Habanero Jam: Substitute jalapeños with habanero for intense heat.

Cooking Notes

Heat level increases as jam rests—start mild and adjust.

Stir frequently to prevent sticking or scorching.

Cornstarch provides a soft-set jam perfect for spreading.

Jam thickens fully after cooling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Heat Jalapeño Strawberry Jam over cream cheese with crackers, spread on toast or biscuits, spooned onto grilled meats, glazed on salmon or chicken, or added to cheese boards. It also works beautifully in sandwiches or as a burger topping.

Tips

Wear gloves when handling hot peppers.

Taste as you cook and adjust heat or sweetness.

Let jam cool before judging final thickness.

Label jars if gifting.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

20 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per tablespoon)

Calories: 55

Protein: 0g

Sodium: 1mg

FAQs

Is this jam very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy; removing seeds keeps the heat gentle.

How long does homemade jam last?
Stored in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 weeks.

Can I freeze this jam?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Can I can this jam for shelf storage?
This recipe is designed for refrigerator storage, not shelf canning.

Conclusion

Sweet Heat Jalapeño Strawberry Jam is a bold, irresistible spread that transforms simple dishes into something unforgettable. With juicy strawberries, bright citrus, and a touch of heat, this jam delivers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy in every spoonful. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, it’s a recipe you’ll love keeping on hand for entertaining, gifting, or adding excitement to everyday meals.

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