Pineapple Cowboy Candy

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet, spicy, sticky condiment made by simmering pineapple chunks and jalapeño slices in a flavorful syrup. It’s perfect on meats, burgers, tacos, sandwiches, and even over cream cheese with crackers. Below is the fully expanded recipe with all steps, techniques, and optional enhancements.

⭐ Ingredients (Exact Amounts)

• 3 cups diced fresh pineapple
  (Cut into small bite-size cubes. Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, but keep it slightly firm.)

• 1 cup thinly sliced jalapeño peppers
  (Use gloves when slicing if you are sensitive to heat. Remove some seeds for a less spicy result.)

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Optional additions (if you want a deeper flavor):

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder

• A pinch of chili flakes if you want more heat

🥣 Instructions – Full Version

1. Prepare Your Work Area and Jars

If you want long-term shelf storage, sterilize your jars:

1. Wash jars and lids with hot soapy water.

2. Place jars in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.

3. Let them air-dry on a clean towel.

If storing only in the refrigerator, you can skip the boiling step, but clean jars well.

2. Prepare the Pineapple and Jalapeños

Pineapple:

• Peel the pineapple, remove the core, and dice into small cubes.

• Make sure the pieces are uniform so they cook evenly.

Jalapeños:

• Slice into thin rings.

• Keep the seeds for spicier candy; remove them for a milder flavor.

• Use gloves if needed to avoid irritation.

Set both aside.

3. Make the Sweet & Spicy Syrup

In a medium or large saucepan, add:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Mix well and turn heat to medium-high.

Allow the mixture to:

• Heat until the sugar fully dissolves

• Come to a light boil

• Turn a golden yellow due to turmeric

Stir occasionally to prevent burning on the bottom.

4. Cook the Jalapeños First

Once your syrup reaches a steady boil:

1. Add the sliced jalapeños to the pot.

2. Reduce heat to medium-low and let them simmer for 5 minutes.

This softens the peppers and infuses the syrup with heat and flavor.

5. Add the Pineapple

After 5 minutes:

1. Add all the diced pineapple to the pot.

2. Stir gently, making sure all pieces are coated with syrup.

3. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.

What you are looking for:

• Pineapple should soften slightly but stay firm enough to hold its shape.

• Syrup should thicken just a bit, becoming glossy.

Do not overcook the pineapple—mushy pineapple ruins the candy.

6. Fill the Jars Carefully

Using a slotted spoon:

1. Scoop the pineapple and jalapeños directly into your jars.

2. Tap jars gently to remove air pockets.

3. Pour the hot syrup over the fruit mixture until the jars are completely full.

4. Wipe rims clean and place lids tightly.

If you want long-term storage, continue to the next step.
If you want refrigerator storage, let jars cool and refrigerate.

7. (Optional) Water Bath Canning for Long Storage

For shelf-stable cowboy candy:

1. Place filled jars in a large pot with water covering them by at least 1 inch.

2. Bring water to a full boil.

3. Process jars for 10 minutes.

4. Remove jars and set on a towel to cool.

You will hear a “pop” when the lids seal.

Sealed jars can be stored at room temperature up to 1 year.

🕒 Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

• Lasts up to 3 months

• Opened jars stay good for 4–6 weeks

Pantry (canned)

• Lasts up to 12 months

• Once opened, keep in refrigerator

🍴 Serving Ideas (Detailed List)

1. With Cream Cheese

• Pour over a block of cream cheese

• Serve with crackers

• A perfect appetizer

2. On Meats

• Grilled chicken

  Ribs

• Burgers (amazing on cheeseburgers)

3. On Breakfast

• Add to omelets

• Serve with fried eggs

• Mix into breakfast burritos

4. On Snacks

• Add to nachos

• Use in tacos

• Add to rice bowls

5. As a sauce

Blend a small amount with extra syrup to make:

• Glaze

• Marinade

• Dressing for slaw

🔥 Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh pineapple for maximum flavor.

• Do not overcook the pineapple or it becomes too soft.

• If you want thicker syrup, simmer longer before adding pineapple.

• Adjust heat level by adding/removing jalapeño seeds.

• Color will deepen as it sits in the jar—this is normal.

🍍 Variations

Sweet & Mild Version

• Remove all jalapeño seeds

• Add 1 extra cup of pineapple

Extra Hot Version

• Add 1–2 chopped habaneros

• Add chili flakes

Tropical Version

• Add diced mango

• Add coconut flakes (unsweetened)