Cinnamon Apple Hot Pepper Spread is a beautiful balance of sweet, warm, and spicy—an autumn-inspired preserve with a lively kick. This versatile spread captures the cozy essence of simmered apples and cinnamon, then elevates it with the heat of fresh peppers. The result is a glossy, fragrant mixture that enhances anything from breakfast toast to roasted meats, offering complexity with every spoonful.
The foundation of this spread lies in the apples, which soften into a tender, fragrant base as they simmer with sugar, vinegar, and spices. The gentle acidity from the apple cider vinegar brightens the sweetness, helping the flavors stay vibrant and balanced. As the apples cook down, they absorb the warmth of cinnamon and the carefully measured fire of jalapeño, serrano, or even habanero peppers.
What makes this spread particularly exciting is its flexibility. You can leave it rustic and chunky for a more traditional fruit spread or blend it until silky for a smooth, jam-like finish. Adjusting the type of pepper allows full control over the heat level, making the recipe suitable for mild palates or spice enthusiasts alike. Its sweet heat makes it ideal on charcuterie boards, over cream cheese, or spooned onto pork chops or grilled chicken.
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Homemade preserves like this also offer the satisfaction of crafting something unique, flavorful, and long-lasting. They store beautifully in the refrigerator and can be water-bath processed for pantry shelves. Whether you use this as a spread, glaze, condiment, or gift, its layered flavor will quickly earn it a place among your favorite homemade creations.
Yield: About 3–4 cups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
Total Time: 50–60 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled, diced apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2–3 hot peppers (jalapeño, serrano, or habanero), finely minced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
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