Jalapeno Apple Pepper Jelly

1. Combine the apple pieces, apple cores (needed for their pectin content), jalapeños, bell pepper, cranberries (if using), water and vinegar in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium-low, simmering for about 20 minutes, or until the apples, cranberries, and peppers are soft.
3. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pan where it might burn.
4. Use a potato masher to mash up the apple pieces to the consistency of slightly runny apple sauce. If the mash is too thick, add more water.
5. Spoon the mash into a fine mesh sieve, muslin cloth, or a couple layers of cheesecloth, suspended over a large bowl. Leave to strain for several hours (even overnight).
6. If you want a clear jelly, do not squeeze or force through the mesh. Just let it drip. If you want a fuller flavor jelly and don't mind that the result won't be clear, you can force some of the pulp through the mesh.
7. If your pulp is too thick, and nothing is coming out, you can add an extra 1/2 cup or cup of water to it. (You want to end up with about 4 cups of juice).
8. Measure the juice, then pour into a large, wide, thick-bottomed pot.
9. Add the sugar (7/8 a cup for each cup of juice).
10. Heat gently, stirring to make sure the sugar gets dissolved and doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan and burn.
11. Bring to a boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes, using a spoon to skim off the surface scum.
12. Continue to boil until a candy thermometer shows that the temperature has reached 220-222°F (8-10°F above the boiling point at your altitude).
13. Additional time needed for cooking can be anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour or longer, depending on the amount of water, sugar, and apple pectin in the mix.
14. Pour jelly into sterilized jars* to within 1/4" from the top and seal.

Makes approx. 4 half-pint jars.