Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a fun and tasty treat that combines sweet pineapple with a spicy kick from jalapeños. This fun candy makes a great snack or a unique gift for friends and family!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to follow and gives you a special burst of flavor. It’s perfect for sunny days or cozy gatherings. Plus, everyone loves homemade goodies! You can enjoy it alone or share with loved ones.
How to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Ingredients
- Fresh pineapple, diced (3 cups)
- Jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (1 cup)
- Apple cider vinegar (1 cup)
- Granulated sugar (2 cups)
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
- Mustard seeds (1 teaspoon)
- Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Ginger, grated (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic, finely chopped (2 cloves)
Directions
- In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric, grated ginger, and chopped garlic.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the diced pineapple and jalapeño slices to the saucepan.
- Simmer over medium heat until the pineapple is tender and the liquid becomes syrupy, about 20 minutes.
- Sterilize jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes.
- Carefully ladle the hot jelly mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims, fix the lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Remove the jars and let them cool completely. Check the seals before storing in a cool, dark place.
How to Serve Pineapple Cowboy Candy
You can serve Pineapple Cowboy Candy as a sweet topping on cream cheese, spread it on toast, or enjoy it straight from the jar! It’s also great as a unique addition to cheese boards.
How to Store Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Store your Pineapple Cowboy Candy in a cool, dark place. If the jars are sealed properly, it can last for several months. Once opened, keep it in the fridge and enjoy it within a few weeks.
Tips to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy
- Make sure to use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on how spicy you like it!
- Don’t skip the jar sterilization step; it helps keep the candy fresh longer.
Variation
You can try adding different spices like cinnamon for a warm flavor. Or switch up the fruit and use peaches instead of pineapple for a different twist!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen pineapple?
A: Fresh pineapple is best, but you can use frozen if thawed and drained well.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for canning?
A: Yes, this recipe is great for canning as long as you follow proper canning procedures.
Q: How spicy is this candy?
A: The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeño you use. You can adjust it to your taste!
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then simmer until sugar dissolves.
- Add diced pineapple and sliced jalapeños to the saucepan.
- Simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes, until pineapple is tender and liquid is syrupy.
- Sterilize jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes.
- Ladle the hot pineapple mixture into jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims and seal tightly.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove and cool completely. Check seals before storing.
Notes
Use fresh pineapple for optimal flavor. Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your spice preference. Ensure proper sterilization for best preservation.