Description
Candied jalapeños, also known as cowboy candy, are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy. Fresh jalapeño slices are simmered in a tangy, sugary syrup, creating an irresistible condiment that pairs well with burgers, tacos, sandwiches, and even cocktails. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to add a little kick to your dishes, these sweet-and-heat jalapeños will quickly become a kitchen staple!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs fresh jalapeños (about 30 peppers)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed
💡 Tip: Use firm, fresh jalapeños for the best texture and flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Wash the jalapeños thoroughly under running water.
- Remove and discard the stems.
- Slice the jalapeños into ¼-inch thick rounds and set them aside.
⚠️ Safety Tip: Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from capsaicin.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Syrup
- In a large pot, combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, turmeric, and celery seed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce to medium-low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Jalapeños
- Increase heat to medium-high until the syrup reaches a boil.
- Add the sliced jalapeños and stir to coat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let them simmer for 4 minutes.
Step 4: Transfer Jalapeños to Jars
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer jalapeños into clean, sterilized glass jars, filling to ¼-inch from the top.
Step 5: Reduce the Syrup
- Increase heat to bring the syrup to a rolling boil.
- Let it boil for 6 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Fill Jars with Syrup
- Carefully ladle the hot syrup into the jars, covering the jalapeños.
- Use a clean spoon to remove air bubbles and leave about ¼ to ½ inch of headspace.
Step 7: Seal and Store
- Wipe jar rims with a damp paper towel to remove syrup residue.
- Secure canning lids tightly.
- Let jars cool at room temperature before refrigerating.
📌 For best flavor, refrigerate for 1-2 weeks before eating. The longer they sit, the better they taste!
Notes
✅ Substitutions & Variations
- Use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a sharper tang.
- For a milder version, mix in banana peppers or sweet bell peppers.
- Add red pepper flakes or use serrano peppers for extra heat.
- Try honey candied jalapeños by replacing half the sugar with honey.
- Add smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
✅ Tips for Best Results
- Sterilize your jars by boiling them for 10 minutes before filling.
- If syrup thickens too much while jarring, reheat it slightly.
- Let the jars sit upside down for 10 minutes after sealing to help create a vacuum seal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiments & Sauces
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Candied jalapeños, cowboy candy, sweet jalapeños, spicy pickles