If you love sweet heat, then this Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a must-try! 🍍🔥
This Southern classic with a tropical twist takes candied jalapeños to the next level by adding juicy pineapple chunks to the mix. The result? A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy that pairs well with almost anything—from burgers and sandwiches to cream cheese dip and charcuterie boards.
Made by simmering fresh jalapeños and pineapple in a sweet and tangy syrup, this homemade cowboy candy is incredibly easy to prepare and stores beautifully in jars. Whether you’re looking for a zesty topping or a unique homemade gift, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Sweet & Spicy – A delicious contrast of flavors in every bite.
✔️ Super Versatile – Perfect as a topping, dip, or side.
✔️ Easy to Make – No fancy ingredients, just simple simmering!
✔️ Great for Gifting – Looks beautiful in jars and lasts for months!
Ingredients (Measured in Grams)
For the Pineapple Cowboy Candy:
- 300g fresh jalapeños (sliced into rounds, seeds removed for less heat)
- 200g fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 250g granulated sugar
- 150g brown sugar
- 250ml apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (2g)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (2g)
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (1g)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, 1g for extra heat)
For Storing (Optional):
- Sterilized mason jars (for canning)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice jalapeños into thin rounds. If you want a milder version, remove the seeds.
- Cut fresh pineapple into small chunks if using fresh. Drain well if using canned.
Step 2: Make the Sweet & Spicy Syrup
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, turmeric, garlic powder, ginger, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Jalapeños & Pineapple
- Add the sliced jalapeños and pineapple chunks to the simmering syrup.
- Stir well and let them cook for 15 minutes, until the jalapeños become glossy and slightly translucent.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied jalapeños and pineapple into sterilized jars.
Step 4: Reduce the Syrup
- Increase heat and bring the remaining syrup to a rolling boil for about 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Carefully pour the hot syrup over the jalapeños and pineapple in the jars, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Step 5: Store & Enjoy!
- Seal the jars and let them cool completely at room temperature.
- For best flavor, let them sit for at least 24 hours before using.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 95
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 0.2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands used.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Pineapple Cowboy Candy
🌶️ Control the Heat – Removing jalapeño seeds makes it milder. Add cayenne for an extra kick!
🍍 Use Fresh Pineapple – It adds the best natural sweetness and texture.
🔥 Simmer Slowly – This ensures the syrup thickens and the flavors blend beautifully.
🫙 Let It Sit – Flavors develop better over time—wait at least 24 hours before eating!
How to Use Pineapple Cowboy Candy
This sweet & spicy treat is super versatile! Try it:
🍔 On Burgers & Sandwiches – Adds a sweet-heat crunch!
🧀 Over Cream Cheese – Serve with crackers for an easy appetizer.
🥩 With Grilled Meats – Perfect with steak, pork, or BBQ chicken.
🍚 In Rice Dishes – Mix into fried rice or tacos for a flavor boost.
🥓 Wrapped in Bacon – Create candied jalapeño bacon bites!
How to Store & Preserve
🫙 Refrigeration: Store in sealed jars in the fridge for up to 3 months.
🔥 Canning Option: Process in a hot water bath for 10 minutes for long-term storage (up to 1 year).
Final Thoughts
If you love bold, zesty flavors, this Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a game-changer! With spicy jalapeños, sweet pineapple, and a tangy syrup, this homemade delight will become your new favorite condiment.
Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with every bite! 🍍🔥
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