Southern Sweet & Spicy Jezebel Sauce: A Bold Flavor Bomb Without Alcohol

When it comes to sauces that can steal the show, few can compete with the unforgettable combination found in Southern Sweet & Spicy Jezebel Sauce. This vibrant, fruity, and fiery sauce is a Southern classic known for its mouthwatering mix of sweetness and heat. Originally popular at church potlucks and family gatherings, Jezebel sauce is now making its way into kitchens everywhere for good reason. Whether spooned over grilled meats, paired with roasted vegetables, or simply poured over cream cheese with crackers, this versatile sauce instantly elevates any meal.

What makes this particular recipe special is that it removes the traditional bourbon, replacing it with apple juice. This ensures the sauce remains family-friendly and accessible to all while keeping its bold, punchy flavor intact. Get ready to discover a condiment that is not only incredibly easy to make but also unforgettable in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

To prepare this Southern classic at home, gather the following ingredients:

• ⅓ cup crushed pineapple
• 8 ounces pineapple preserves
• 8 ounces apple jelly
• 5 ounces prepared horseradish
• 6 ounces spicy brown mustard
• ⅓ cup candied jalapeños, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup apple juice (used instead of bourbon)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the complex layers of flavor that Jezebel sauce is famous for. From the fruity brightness of pineapple to the tangy kick of horseradish and mustard, every spoonful delivers a burst of Southern charm.

Instructions

1. Prepare the pineapple
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Spread it evenly on a flame-proof baking sheet.

2. Caramelize the pineapple
Use a kitchen torch to lightly caramelize the pineapple, stirring occasionally until it becomes golden and slightly charred. If you do not have a torch, you can place the pineapple under the broiler for a few minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

3. Combine ingredients
Transfer the caramelized pineapple into a medium saucepan set over medium heat. Add in the pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, spicy brown mustard, chopped candied jalapeños if using, and brown sugar.

4. Simmer the mixture
Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure that the flavors blend beautifully.

5. Add the apple juice
After the sauce has thickened, stir in the apple juice. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to incorporate.

6. Refrigerate and rest
Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Transfer to a glass jar or container and refrigerate overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to deepen and meld together into the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy.

Benefits of This Craft

Making Southern Sweet & Spicy Jezebel Sauce at home offers numerous benefits beyond the incredible taste it delivers. Here’s why this DIY recipe is worth your time:

• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of horseradish or candied jalapeños to make the sauce milder or spicier according to your taste.
• No Alcohol: This version uses apple juice, making it kid-friendly and appropriate for any audience.
• Long Shelf Life: When stored properly, the sauce can be enjoyed for several weeks, giving you a ready-made flavor booster on hand.
• Versatility: It pairs with meats, cheeses, sandwiches, vegetables, and more, making it one of the most versatile condiments you can make.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its complex flavor, the process is straightforward and accessible even to beginner cooks.

Making your own sauce also allows you to control the quality of ingredients, avoiding preservatives or artificial flavors often found in store-bought versions.

Tips

• Use a broiler carefully: If you caramelize the pineapple under a broiler, stay nearby and check every minute. Pineapple sugars burn quickly.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more apple juice at the end of cooking.
• Play with flavors: Swap spicy brown mustard for Dijon if you prefer a slightly less spicy but more tangy result.
• Taste as you go: Before refrigerating, taste the sauce. If you want more sweetness, stir in an extra teaspoon of brown sugar. For extra tang, add another small spoonful of horseradish.
• Label your jar: If you’re storing multiple homemade sauces, label your Jezebel Sauce with the date to ensure freshness.

Experimenting with slight variations can make each batch a little different, which keeps the excitement alive every time you serve it.

What Does Southern Sweet & Spicy Jezebel Sauce Taste Like?

The taste of Southern Sweet & Spicy Jezebel Sauce is a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. The fruity depth from the pineapple and preserves balances perfectly against the sharp kick of horseradish and mustard. The optional candied jalapeños add another dimension of heat and sweetness.

The sauce has a rich, glossy appearance, and when drizzled over cream cheese or a grilled chicken breast, it clings beautifully while delivering bursts of flavor with every bite. It is sweet without being cloying, spicy without being overpowering, and always exciting to the palate.

How to Store

Proper storage is crucial to keep the vibrant flavors of this homemade sauce fresh:

• Container: Store in a clean, airtight glass jar or container.
• Refrigeration: Always keep the sauce refrigerated.
• Shelf Life: Jezebel Sauce typically stays fresh for up to three weeks when stored properly.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions if desired. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Always use clean utensils when serving to prevent contamination and extend the sauce’s shelf life.

Southern Sweet & Spicy Jezebel Sauce is a true celebration of bold Southern flavors. Easy to make, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to impress, this sauce deserves a spot in every kitchen. Its unique combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes makes it a fantastic addition to everything from elegant charcuterie boards to casual weeknight dinners.

If you enjoy creating homemade flavor boosters that wow your guests and family alike, you’ll definitely want to add this Jezebel Sauce to your culinary repertoire.

For more daily recipe inspiration and creative kitchen projects, visit More DIY craft ideas and discover a world of new flavors to explore.

FAQ

Can I make Jezebel Sauce spicier?
Yes, simply add more horseradish or increase the amount of candied jalapeños for extra heat.

Is it necessary to caramelize the pineapple?
Caramelizing the pineapple deepens the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still have a delicious sauce.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Yes, just make sure to chop it finely and drain it well before use.

What can I substitute for apple jelly?
Apricot preserves make a great substitute if apple jelly is unavailable.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredients, keeping the ratios the same. Store extra sauce in separate containers.

Other Sources for More Inspiration

Pinterest is filled with creative ideas for sauces, glazes, and condiments. Explore this inspiring pin for more homemade sauce ideas that will elevate your meals:
Homemade Sauce Recipes on Pinterest