Lemon Zest Jalapeño Shine Jelly
Description
This Lemon Zest Jalapeño Shine Jelly is sweet, tangy, and gently spicy with a smooth citrus finish. Bright lemon juice and zest bring bold flavor, jalapeños add just enough heat, and a splash of shine gives it a fun, Southern-style twist. Perfect for spreading on biscuits, glazing meats, or serving over cream cheese with crackers.
Ingredients
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2 cups fresh lemon juice
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Zest of 2 lemons
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2 cups water
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1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for mild heat)
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4 cups granulated sugar
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1 pouch (3 oz) liquid fruit pectin
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½ cup lemon-flavored moonshine or plain moonshine*
*Use store-bought moonshine or legally purchased spirits.
Directions
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Infuse the Flavor
In a large saucepan, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, water, and jalapeño slices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors. -
Strain (Optional)
For a smooth jelly, strain out jalapeños and zest. For a rustic jelly, leave some zest and pepper slices in. -
Add Sugar
Return liquid to the pot and stir in sugar. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. -
Add Pectin
Stir in liquid pectin and boil hard for 1 minute, continuing to stir. -
Finish with Shine
Remove from heat and stir in moonshine. -
Jar the Jelly
Carefully ladle hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes—or refrigerate for immediate use.