How to Use Pepper Jelly: A Practical Serving Guide

Pepper jelly isn’t just for cream cheese, though we love it that way! A spoonful can turn a simple sandwich, cheese board, or weeknight dinner into something worth sharing. Here are a few easy ways to put your favorite flavors to work.

A must-have for charcuterie boards

Pepper jelly earns its spot on any charcuterie board. Its sweet-and-savory flavor pairs beautifully with creamy Brie, tangy goat cheese, sharp cheddar, and savory cured meats. Add a small jar alongside crackers, fresh fruit, and nuts, then let everyone build their favorite bite. Offer both mild and hot varieties for a little something for every guest.

Start with cheese and crackers

For a quick appetizer, spoon pepper jelly over cream cheese and serve with crackers. Or build a small cheese board with Brie, goat cheese, sharp cheddar, and a few different jelly flavors. Choose mild or hot to suit your crowd.

Give dinner a sweet-and-savory finish

Brush pepper jelly onto chicken or pork near the end of cooking for a flavorful glaze. Start with a thin layer and add more to taste. Because the sugars can burn, save this step for the finish rather than the beginning.

For seafood, gently warm a small portion until spoonable, then drizzle it over cooked fish or shrimp.

Make a better sandwich

Spread a little pepper jelly inside a grilled cheese, turkey sandwich, or burger. It’s an easy way to add sweetness and a little kick without making a separate sauce.

Mix a quick dressing or dip

Whisk a spoonful of pepper jelly with olive oil and vinegar for a simple dressing. Taste as you go, adding more vinegar for brightness or more jelly for sweetness. Drizzle over a salad or serve as a dipping sauce.

Try it at breakfast

Spread a thin layer on warm toast or an English muffin. Pair it with cream cheese for a breakfast that’s a little sweet, a little savory, and anything but ordinary.

Find your favorite pairing

• Blackberry Pepper Jelly: Try it with pork, smoked cheeses, or blue cheese.
• Mango Pepper Jelly: Pair with Brie, cream cheese, chicken, or pork.
• Pineapple Pepper Jelly: Serve with cream cheese, Brie, or ham.
• Raspberry Pepper Jelly: Enjoy with your favorite cheeses or spread on toast.
• Poblano Lime Pepper Jelly: Pair with creamy cheeses or drizzle over tuna steaks and white fish.
• Maine Wild Blueberry Pepper Jelly: Try with goat cheese, sharp cheddar, or a spinach salad.

A little goes a long way

Start with a small spoonful, especially with hot varieties, and build from there. Use a clean utensil, follow your jar’s storage instructions, and keep jelly used for raw-meat glazing separate from the portion you serve at the table.

Pick a flavor. Try a pairing. Make it your own.

Explore our pepper jellies and find your next favorite combination.