Description
Sweet & Spicy Strawberry Jalapeño Jam with Cream Cheese is an easy appetiser that combines juicy strawberries, fresh jalapeños, tangy cream cheese and a glossy homemade jam. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar add a bright, tangy finish. Serve with crisp crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh strawberries, finely chopped
1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
8 oz (225 g) block cream cheese
Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Fresh jalapeño slices, optional
Fresh mint or parsley, for garnish
Crackers or toasted baguette slices
Instructions
1. Hull and finely chop the strawberries. Finely dice the jalapeños. For a milder result, remove the seeds before chopping.
2. Add the chopped strawberries, diced jalapeños, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, apple cider vinegar and salt to a small saucepan. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have broken down and the mixture has reduced to a thick, glossy jam. If using red pepper flakes, add them during this stage.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the strawberry jalapeño jam to cool for 10–15 minutes. The mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Place the block of cream cheese on a serving plate or small platter. Allow it to soften slightly at room temperature so it is easier to serve and spread.
6. Spoon the cooled jam generously over the cream cheese. Let some of the glossy strawberry mixture naturally drip down the sides for an inviting presentation.
7. Finish with fresh chopped strawberries, finely sliced jalapeño and fresh mint or parsley for colour.
8. Serve immediately with crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices or crostini.
Notes
Finely chopping the strawberries helps them break down evenly as the jam cooks.
Remove the jalapeño seeds for less heat, or use the optional red pepper flakes for additional spice.
Cook the mixture gently until it becomes thick and glossy rather than rushing the reduction.
Allow the jam to cool because it will thicken further as it cools.
Slightly soften the cream cheese so it is easier to serve alongside the jam.
Serve with crackers, crostini or toasted baguette slices for a crisp contrast.
For presentation, garnish with fresh strawberries, thinly sliced jalapeños and fresh mint or parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American