Pineapple Cowboy Candy

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Get ready to meet your new favorite condiment: Pineapple Cowboy Candy! Sweet, spicy, and irresistibly tangy, this recipe takes candied jalapeños to the next level by adding juicy pineapple to the mix. The result? A flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for snacking, spicing up sandwiches, or topping off your favorite tacos. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself sneaking spoonfuls straight from the jar. Let’s saddle up and dive into this game-changing recipe!

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Cowboy Candy

This isn’t just another jar of pickles; it’s a sweet-and-spicy marvel that transforms everyday meals into flavor explosions. Here’s why you’ll be hooked:

Versatile

Spread it on burgers, dollop it on cream cheese with crackers, or toss it into your grilled cheese. There’s no wrong way to enjoy it!

Sweet Meets Heat

The combination of sugar, pineapple, and jalapeños creates a perfectly balanced blend of flavors.

Perfect for Gifting

Pack it into cute jars, and you’ve got an instant homemade gift that everyone will rave about.

Make-Ahead Friendly

The flavors get even better as they sit, so it’s a fantastic recipe to prep in advance.

Easy to Customize

Adjust the heat level to suit your taste buds—mild, medium, or knock-your-socks-off spicy!

Ingredients

Here’s the scoop on what makes this sweet-and-spicy treat so irresistible:

Jalapeños

The fiery backbone of the recipe. Slice them thinly for even heat distribution.

Pineapple

Fresh or canned, this adds a tropical sweetness that balances the spice beautifully.

Sugar

The key to creating that glossy, candied syrup that coats every slice.

Vinegar

A tangy kick that preserves the jalapeños and enhances the overall flavor.

Spices

A mix of turmeric, garlic, and celery seed adds depth and warmth to the syrup.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños

Slice your jalapeños into thin rounds and set them aside. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Syrup

In a large pot, combine sugar, vinegar, pineapple juice, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 3: Add Pineapple and Jalapeños

Stir in the pineapple chunks and sliced jalapeños. Simmer for a few minutes until the jalapeños soften and soak up the syrup.

Step 4: Jar the Mixture

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños and pineapple to sterilized jars. Pour the hot syrup over the top, leaving a bit of headspace.

Step 5: Process the Jars

If preserving for long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath. Otherwise, let them cool before refrigerating.

Step 6: Let Them Rest

For the best flavor, let the jars sit for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spread on crackers with cream cheese, add to sandwiches, or simply snack on them straight from the jar.

How to Serve Pineapple Cowboy Candy

This recipe is a superstar sidekick for countless dishes. Try these serving ideas:

  • With Cream Cheese: Spread cream cheese on a cracker and top with a spoonful for the perfect party bite.
  • On Tacos: Add a sweet-and-spicy kick to your favorite taco recipes.
  • In Sandwiches: Layer it on burgers, grilled cheese, or pulled pork for an instant upgrade.
  • As a Glaze: Use the syrup to glaze grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp.
  • Straight-Up: Honestly, they’re so good you can eat them on their own!

Additional Tips

  • Wear Gloves: When handling jalapeños, wear gloves to avoid the dreaded spicy fingers.
  • Adjust the Heat: Like it mild? Remove more seeds. Want extra spice? Add a pinch of cayenne to the syrup.
  • Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or process for long-term shelf storage.
  • Make It a Gift: Tie a cute ribbon around the jar and add a handwritten tag for an extra-special touch.
  • Experiment: Swap pineapple for mango or peaches for a fun twist!

FAQ

Q1: Can I use canned pineapple?

A1: Yes! Just make sure it’s in juice, not syrup, for the best flavor.

Q2: How spicy is this recipe?

A2: It’s sweet with a medium kick, but you can adjust the heat level by tweaking the seeds and spices.

Q3: Can I freeze Pineapple Cowboy Candy?

A3: Freezing isn’t recommended as it may change the texture, but it stores well in the fridge or pantry if canned.

Q4: What’s the shelf life of canned jars?

A4: Properly processed jars can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place.

Q5: Can I use different peppers?

A5: Absolutely! Try serranos or even habaneros for a spicier variation.

Q6: Do I need special equipment for canning?

A6: A boiling water bath canner and sterilized jars are all you need for safe canning.

Q7: Can I skip the pineapple?

A7: Sure, but it adds a unique sweetness that makes this recipe special.

Q8: Can I reuse the syrup?

A8: Yes, it’s amazing as a marinade or salad dressing base!

Q9: What’s the best way to sterilize jars?

A9: Wash them with hot, soapy water, then boil for 10 minutes before filling.

Q10: Can I make a smaller batch?

A10: Of course! Just scale the ingredients proportionally.

Conclusion

There you have it, my friend—Pineapple Cowboy Candy, a jar full of pure joy! Sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible, this recipe is the perfect balance of flavors to elevate any meal or snack. Make a batch (or two!) and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Yeehaw!” Happy cooking!

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Pineapple Cowboy Candy

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Sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible! Pineapple Cowboy Candy combines juicy pineapple chunks with fiery jalapeño slices in a tangy syrup infused with apple cider vinegar, ginger, and turmeric. Perfect for topping burgers, pairing with cheese, or jazzing up your favorite dishes.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: About 4 jars 1x
  • Category: Condiments
  • Method: Canning
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  1. 3 cups diced fresh pineapple – Adds tropical sweetness.
  2. 1 cup thinly sliced jalapeño peppers – For that spicy kick.
  3. 1 cup apple cider vinegar – Creates a tangy base.
  4. 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the syrup.
  5. 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds a citrusy zing.
  6. 1 teaspoon mustard seeds – Lends a subtle earthy flavor.
  7. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – Enhances color and depth.
  8. 1 tablespoon grated ginger – Adds a warm, zesty note.
  9. 2 cloves finely chopped garlic – Infuses savory richness.

Instructions

  • Prepare the Syrup:
    In a large saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer until the sugar dissolves.
  • Cook the Pineapple & Jalapeños:
    Add diced pineapple and jalapeño slices to the saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple softens and the liquid becomes syrupy.
  • Sterilize Jars:
    While the mixture cooks, sterilize jars and lids by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes.
  • Fill the Jars:
    Carefully spoon the hot pineapple mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.
  • Cool & Store:
    Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. Ensure lids are properly sealed before storing in a cool, dark place.

Notes

  • For milder heat, remove seeds from jalapeños.
  • Allow jars to sit for at least a week to let the flavors meld before serving.
  • Use as a topping for cream cheese, burgers, or charcuterie boards.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp
  • Calories: 60
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Sodium: 2mg
  • Fat: 0.1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 0.2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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