There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that makes food not just nourishing but truly soul-soothing. I still remember a cozy autumn afternoon when my friend Sarah introduced me to jalapeno bacon jam. We were gathered in her kitchen, laughter spilling over like the warm, inviting smells from the stove. As the bacon sizzled, and the jalapenos softened, the air was filled with anticipation. That first taste was a revelation—a sweet yet savory spread that perfectly captured the essence of fall gatherings. Whether served during the holidays or at a simple weekend brunch, this jam never fails to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful spread together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a flavor powerhouse—sweet, spicy, and smoky!
• Perfect for spreading on biscuits, toasting with bread, or pairing with cheeses.
• Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
• A fabulous gift for friends and family—who wouldn’t love a jar of this joy?

Ingredients

Gathering ingredients for jalapeno bacon jam is half the fun! You won’t need anything too fancy—just some basics that pack a big punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb bacon, chopped (I recommend thick-cut for more flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4-6 jalapenos, seeded and diced (adjust based on your heat preference)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional, but it adds a wonderful depth)
• 1 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s bring this darling dish to life! Follow these steps to create your own jar of jalapeno bacon jam:

1. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. This will take about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing, and the bacon is beautifully golden brown. Don’t rush this part; crispy bacon equals incredible flavor!
2. Drain and set aside: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, letting it drain while keeping some grease in the pan.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and cook them in the bacon grease over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add the diced jalapenos and garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine ingredients: Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; you want a simmer, not a full boil.
5. Add the bacon back in: Once the mixture is simmering nicely, stir the crispy bacon back into the pan. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You’ll notice the jam thickening as it cooks—how cozy is that smell?
6. Blend if desired: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can carefully blend the mixture using an immersion blender—just remember, it’s hot! A few pulses should be enough to achieve that perfect spreadable consistency.
7. Cool and store: Remove from heat and let it cool before transferring to sterilized jars. It should keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, but trust me, it won’t last that long!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve got the base recipe down, let’s have some fun with it! Here are some playful twists and pro tips to take your jalapeno bacon jam to the next level:

• Smoky addition: Incorporate some smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor—smoky and sweet is such a scrumptious combo!
• Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while it simmers for a fresh, aromatic finish.
• Spice level: If you like it hot, keep the seeds in the jalapenos, or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Diet swaps: For a vegetarian version, swap out the bacon for smoked tempeh or mushrooms, and use olive oil to sauté your veggies.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your jalapeno bacon jam is all jarred up, let’s talk about how to serve it! Picture this: a warm, flaky biscuit, a generous spread of that sweet and spicy jam, and a cup of rich, dark coffee. Or, serve it alongside a cheese platter—it pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like brie or tangy goat cheese. You can also drizzle it over grilled chicken or pork for a delightful twist. It adds an unbeatable flavor punch that will have your friends begging for the recipe!

Storage Tips

You’ve made a delicious batch of jalapeno bacon jam, and now it’s time to make sure it stays fresh. Here’s how:

• Refrigerate: Store your jam in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep for about 2 weeks—just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up.
• Freeze: If you want to keep it for a longer time, transfer it into smaller containers or ice cube trays for easy use. It can be frozen for up to 3 months!
• Reheat: To enjoy again, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts until warmed through. Enjoy that cozy smell all over again!

Can I use other types of meat instead of bacon?

Absolutely! You can try using diced prosciutto or smoked sausage if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using different meats.

Is it possible to make this jam spicy without jalapenos?

Of course! You can use other types of chili peppers according to your taste. Habaneros will give a serious kick, while banana peppers offer a milder option. Just be sure to taste as you go!

What can I do with leftover bacon grease?

Oh, the possibilities! Save that flavorful bacon grease for cooking eggs, sautéing vegetables, or even in baked goods for an extra punch of flavor. Just be sure to store it in a sealed container in the fridge.

How long will the jam last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it should last about 2 weeks. If you’re freezing it, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label those jars so you remember what deliciousness awaits inside!

Conclusion

And there you have it—a warm, inviting jar of jalapeno bacon jam ready to spice up your meals and gather friends around the table! I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this delightful spread. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Don’t forget to pop back and let me know how yours turned out or if you put your spin on it. Happy cooking!

Ultimate JALAPENO BACON JAM Recipe Irresistible Flavor Boost

---

• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 2 cups 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover how to make JALAPENO BACON JAM that elevates your dishes with irresistible flavor Perfect for sandwiches burgers appetizers 154 chars

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb of thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4–6 jalapenos, seeded and diced

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 cup of brown sugar

1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup of maple syrup (optional)

1 teaspoon of black pepper

---

Instructions

Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it's crispy, about 10-12 minutes.

Drain and set aside: Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, letting it drain while keeping some grease in the pan.

Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onions to the same skillet and cook in the bacon grease for about 5 minutes until soft. Then add the diced jalapenos and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes more.

Combine ingredients: Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup, bringing to a gentle simmer until the sugar dissolves.

Add bacon back in: Stir the crispy bacon back into the mixture, letting it cook for another 10-15 minutes.

Blend if desired: For a smoother texture, blend the mixture with an immersion blender.

Cool and store: Let cool before transferring to sterilized jars, refrigerating for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

A sweet and spicy bacon jam that perfectly combines sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, ideal for spreading on biscuits, pairing with cheeses or enhancing your dishes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 cups
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 6 grams
• Fat: 12 grams
• Carbohydrates: 8 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Protein: 10 grams

Keywords: jalapeno bacon jam, sweet and spicy jam, bacon recipe, condiment