Name: Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped; 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into thin rounds; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup apple cider vinegar; ½ teaspoon turmeric; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat); Pinch of salt

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Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet and spicy Southern-inspired preserve that combines the bold flavors of fresh pineapple and jalapeños. This recipe creates a versatile topping that's perfect for adding a kick to burgers, pairing with cream cheese, or even using as a condiment to elevate your favorite dishes. It's a delicious mix of sweet, savory, and spicy that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped

1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into thin rounds

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon turmeric

½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Pinch of salt

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, turmeric, ginger, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until the sugar is dissolved.

Add the sliced jalapeños and chopped pineapple to the pot.

Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the jalapeños are slightly translucent and the mixture thickens slightly.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños and pineapple to sterilized jars, packing them tightly.

Continue to simmer the syrup for another 5-10 minutes, until slightly reduced.

Carefully pour the hot syrup over the jalapeños and pineapple in the jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace.

Wipe the rims clean, seal with sterilized lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if storing long-term.

Allow the jars to cool completely. For best flavor, let them sit for at least 1 week before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: About 3 cups

Variations

Extra Heat: I sometimes add more crushed red pepper flakes if I want an extra spicy punch.

Sweet and Tangy: For a tangier kick, I’ve swapped out the apple cider vinegar for white vinegar, or even a splash of lemon juice.

Fruit Mix: Sometimes, I mix in other fruits like peaches or mango for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store Pineapple Cowboy Candy in sterilized jars in a cool, dark place. When properly sealed, it can last for several weeks. Once opened, I refrigerate it and it will keep for a couple of months. I’ve never had to reheat it since I usually use it straight from the jar, but if you prefer it warm, simply warm it gently in a saucepan before serving.

FAQs

How spicy is Pineapple Cowboy Candy?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños I use and whether I add crushed red pepper flakes. The recipe as written has a mild to medium heat, but I can adjust it to be spicier by adding more peppers or flakes.

Can I make this recipe without vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar provides a crucial tang that balances the sweetness, but if I don’t have it on hand, I’ve used white vinegar as a substitute with great results. Just be aware it may alter the flavor slightly.

How long should I wait before serving?

For the best flavor, I let the jars sit for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it’s still good right away if you’re in a rush!

Can I use frozen pineapple for this recipe?

While fresh pineapple works best for texture and flavor, I’ve used frozen pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure it’s thawed and drained well before using it in the recipe.

What can I pair Pineapple Cowboy Candy with?

I love pairing it with cream cheese for an easy dip, adding it to burgers, or using it as a topping for grilled meats. It’s also great on crackers or paired with cheese.

Conclusion

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy, making it a standout condiment or gift. I love how simple it is to prepare, and it’s one of those recipes that keeps getting better with time. Whether I’m serving it at a party or enjoying it on a weekday snack, this jar of goodness never disappoints.

Recipe:

Pineapple Cowboy Candy

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: About 3 cups
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet and spicy Southern-inspired preserve that combines the bold flavors of fresh pineapple and jalapeños. It’s a versatile topping perfect for adding a kick to burgers, pairing with cream cheese, or elevating your favorite dishes.

Instructions

In a large pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, turmeric, ginger, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until the sugar is dissolved.
Add the sliced jalapeños and chopped pineapple to the pot.
Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the jalapeños are slightly translucent and the mixture thickens slightly.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños and pineapple to sterilized jars, packing them tightly.
Continue to simmer the syrup for another 5-10 minutes, until slightly reduced.
Carefully pour the hot syrup over the jalapeños and pineapple in the jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace.
Wipe the rims clean, seal with sterilized lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if storing long-term.
Allow the jars to cool completely. For best flavor, let them sit for at least 1 week before serving.