Cowboy Candy Recipe

Cowboy Candy recipe is a delightfully sweet and spicy treat, made by preserving jalapeños in a syrup of sugar, vinegar, and spices. Originating in the American South, this recipe has been cherished by those who love a little kick with their snacks. Cowboy Candy is versatile—it can be used to spice up sandwiches, burgers, or charcuterie boards, and it’s even popular as a unique, flavorful topping for cream cheese and crackers.

Brief History:

The history of Cowboy Candy is deeply rooted in Southern and Southwestern U.S. traditions, where preserving foods with sugar and vinegar has long been a way to extend the shelf life of fresh produce. Legend has it that this spicy-sweet treat was a cowboy’s way of making jalapeños more palatable as a long-lasting condiment, especially on cattle drives and long journeys.

Cowboy Candy Recipe

Pinklady

The history of Cowboy Candy is deeply rooted in Southern and Southwestern U.S. traditions, where preserving foods with sugar and vinegar has long been a way to extend the shelf life of fresh produce.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course Snack

Servings 1 Pint

Equipment

• Medium saucepane spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Slotted spoon
• Sterilized jars with lids
• Wooden spoon or silicon

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound fresh jalapeños (about 15–20 jalapeños)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon celery seed
• 1 tablespoon mustard seed
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

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Instructions

 

• Prepare the Jalapeños

  Wear gloves to protect your skin from the jalapeños’ oils.
• Rinse the jalapeños, then cut off the stems and slice them into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick. Set aside.
• Make the Sweet-Spicy Brine

  In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, ginger, celery seed, mustard seed, and garlic powder.
• Stir until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low, letting the syrup simmer for 5 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
• Cook the Jalapeños

  Add the sliced jalapeños to the saucepan, gently stirring them into the brine.
• Let the jalapeños simmer for 4 minutes—just long enough for them to soften slightly without losing their vibrant green color.
• Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeño slices into sterilized jars, filling each jar up to about ¾ of its capacity.
• Finish with the Brine

  Continue to simmer the brine for an additional 5 minutes to thicken it slightly.
• Carefully pour the hot brine over the jalapeños in the jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
• Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the rims of the jars, then tightly seal them with lids.
• Store and Enjoy

  Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. For best flavor, let the Cowboy Candy sit for at least two weeks before eating to let the flavors meld.
• Cowboy Candy will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three months or can be processed in a water bath for longer shelf life.

Video

Keyword Cowboy Candy Recipe

Similar Recipes:

If you love Cowboy Candy, you might also enjoy:

– Pickled Jalapeños: A simpler version with a pure vinegar brine, great for nachos.
– Candied Serrano Peppers: Swap out jalapeños for serranos for an extra kick.
-Sweet Pepper Relish: A sweet and tangy spread made with bell peppers and onions.
– Hot Pepper Jelly: Sweet and spicy jelly that’s perfect as a glaze or served with cheese.
– Candied Habaneros: For those who like it extra hot, candied habaneros are a fiery twist on Cowboy Candy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Candy Recipe:

1. Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! You can substitute serrano or even habanero peppers for a spicier Cowboy Candy.

2. How long should I wait before eating it?

For best results, let it sit for at least two weeks to allow the flavors to meld.

3. How do I store Cowboy Candy?

Store it in the refrigerator for up to three months or can it for longer storage.

4. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly if you want it less sweet, but the sugar helps with the preservation.

5. How can I use Cowboy Candy in dishes?

It’s great on burgers, sandwiches, tacos, or as a topping on cream cheese with crackers.

6. Can I make it without vinegar?

Vinegar is essential for the brine and preservation, so it can’t be left out entirely.

7. Can I freeze Cowboy Candy?

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the peppers.

8. How do I make Cowboy Candy spicier?

Add more jalapeño seeds or use spicier peppers like serranos or habaneros.

9. What if my syrup doesn’t thicken?

Simmer it for a few more minutes, and it should thicken as it cools.

10. Is Cowboy Candy gluten-free?

Yes, Cowboy Candy is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion:

Cowboy Candy is a tasty and memorable way to enjoy jalapeños. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes it an addictive topping or condiment for a wide variety of dishes. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch at home and enjoy this Southern-inspired treat.

This recipe promises to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a balanced mix of sweetness and heat. Enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite!

YouTube Video Credits:
The Farmer’s Table