If you’re searching for a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy condiment to brighten up your parties or family dinners, look no further than Jezebel Sauce. This vibrant sauce masterfully combines pineapple preserves, apple jelly, and a hint of horseradish to create a flavor profile that dances on your tongue with a unique mix of sweetness, zest, and just the right touch of heat. Whether dolloped over cream cheese or served alongside your favorite crackers, Jezebel Sauce is the kind of culinary gem that never fails to impress, making every bite an exciting experience worth sharing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Jezebel Sauce involves a handful of simple, yet wonderfully complementary ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from contributing sweetness and spice to enhancing texture and depth, ensuring your sauce is bursting with flavor and ready to make any dish pop.

1/2 cup pineapple preserves: Brings a sweet, tropical fruity base with a sticky texture that balances heat perfectly.
1/2 cup apple jelly: Adds mild sweetness and a smooth consistency that blends all the flavors beautifully.
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish: Infuses the sauce with a subtle spicy kick and a unique tang that awakens the palate.
1 1/2 teaspoons ground dry mustard: Provides warmth and complexity, amplifying the overall boldness of the sauce.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors by balancing sweetness with just a pinch of savory.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Introduces gentle heat and slight earthiness that rounds out the sauce.
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a delicate spicy tingle for an exciting finish without overwhelming the palate.
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (for serving): Offers a creamy, smooth canvas that beautifully contrasts the zesty sauce.
Ritz or buttery round crackers (for serving): Provides a crisp, buttery vehicle perfect for scooping and enjoying the sauce.

How to Make Jezebel Sauce

Step 1: Combine Sweet Bases

Start by measuring out 1/2 cup each of pineapple preserves and apple jelly into a small bowl. These two ingredients form the luscious, fruity foundation of the sauce, creating a sweet, syrupy texture that carries the rest of the flavors seamlessly.

Step 2: Add Horseradish and Mustard

Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of prepared horseradish and 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground dry mustard. These ingredients bring the distinctive spiciness and warmth that truly set Jezebel Sauce apart from ordinary jams or jellies, lending it a spirited kick.

Step 3: Season With Salt and Pepper

Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. This seasoning blend sharpens the flavors, balancing sweetness and heat while adding a slight textured bite that keeps you coming back for more.

Step 4: Mix Until Smooth

Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, glossy sauce that’s ready to elevate any snack or meal. The ease of assembling Jezebel Sauce makes it a perfect addition to both weekday dinners and festive gatherings.

How to Serve Jezebel Sauce

Garnishes

Jezebel Sauce shines when garnished with fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chives, adding subtle color and a hint of fresh flavor. A few extra red pepper flakes on top can also provide a lively visual and a little more zing.

Side Dishes

This sauce pairs wonderfully with creamy elements like cream cheese, as well as crunchy crackers such as Ritz or other buttery rounds which complement its sweet-spicy character perfectly. It also works as a surprising drizzle over grilled chicken or ham, adding a burst of flavor that brightens the entire plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning appetizer, spoon a generous half-cup of Jezebel Sauce over a softened 8-ounce block of cream cheese, letting it gracefully cascade down the sides. Serve it on a platter surrounded by crackers for a party-ready spread that looks as amazing as it tastes. Impress your guests by placing the cream cheese and sauce atop a wooden board with fresh fruit or nuts to create a colorful, inviting display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Jezebel Sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy its unique flavor long after the initial meal or gathering.

Freezing

While Jezebel Sauce is best fresh to maintain its vibrant flavors and luscious texture, it can be frozen in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw it gently in the refrigerator overnight, then give it a good stir before serving.

Reheating

If you want to warm the sauce slightly before serving, do so gently in a microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Take care not to overheat, as high temperatures can alter the fresh, fruity notes of Jezebel Sauce.

FAQs

What dishes pair best with Jezebel Sauce?

Jezebel Sauce is incredibly versatile; it complements cream cheese and crackers beautifully, adds a unique twist to grilled meats like chicken or pork, and even enhances cheese and charcuterie boards. Its balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy makes it adaptable to many dishes.

Can I adjust the spiciness of Jezebel Sauce?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and horseradish. For more heat, feel free to add extra horseradish or increase the red pepper flakes, tailoring it perfectly to your taste.

Is Jezebel Sauce gluten-free?

Yes, the sauce itself contains no gluten ingredients. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers if you need the entire dish to be gluten-free.

How long does Jezebel Sauce last in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, Jezebel Sauce can last up to two weeks in the fridge. Always give it a quick sniff and stir before use to ensure freshness.

Can I make Jezebel Sauce vegan?

The sauce ingredients themselves are vegan-friendly, but if serving with cream cheese, opt for a vegan cream cheese alternative to keep the dish completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Jezebel Sauce is truly one of those irresistible delights that livens up any occasion with its perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen rotation. Give this sauce a try — your taste buds will thank you, and your guests will be coming back for seconds, guaranteed!