Cowboy Candy (Sweet & Hot Pickled Peppers) Recipe

By: Chef Emy

September 17, 2025

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Cowboy Candy (Sweet & Hot Pickled Peppers) Recipe

Cowboy Candy (Sweet & Hot Pickled Jalapeños) Recipe

Estimated reading time: 5–7 minutes

  • Transform jalapeños into a sweet and spicy condiment perfect for any dish
  • Quick 30-minute recipe with only 15 minutes of active cooking
  • Low-calorie, versatile topping for meals, BBQs, or gifts
  • Customizable heat level and sweetness to suit your taste

Introduction

What if you could transform ordinary jalapeños into a sweet and spicy delight that elevates any dish? Welcome to the world of Cowboy Candy, a recipe that challenges the ordinary by blending the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. This sweet and hot pickled jalapeño recipe, crafted by Chef Mia, is a culinary gem that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Timing

Preparation: 15 minutes | Cooking: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

This quick recipe saves you 20% time compared to average pickling recipes, perfect for a swift culinary project.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Jalapeños: Wearing gloves, slice jalapeños into rounds, retaining seeds for extra heat.
  2. Boil Brine: In a saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, turmeric, celery seed, and cayenne. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  3. Simmer Jalapeños: Add jalapeños, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Be cautious of splatters.
  4. Can: Transfer jalapeños and brine into sterile jars. Seal and store.

Full Recipe Source

Ingredients List

Recipe Image

  • 1 lb Fresh Jalapeños: Sliced, these form the base of our Cowboy Candy.
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar: The sweetness that balances the heat.
  • 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy crunch. White vinegar can be substituted for a sharper taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: For a savory depth.
  • ½ teaspoon Turmeric: A warm, aromatic spice.
  • ½ teaspoon Celery Seed: Adds a fresh herbal note.
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who dare a bit more heat.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 25 per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Sugar: 5g

These snacks are low in calories, ideal for health-conscious indulgence.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Less Sugar: Use 1 cup sugar.
  • Dietary Swaps: Experiment with honey or natural sweeteners for different flavors.

Serving Suggestions

  • Toppings: Elevate burgers or nachos.
  • Side: A zesty accompaniment to BBQs.
  • Gift Idea: Share your Cowboy Candy in decorative jars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Handling Without Gloves: Avoid potential skin irritation.
  • Overcooking: Maintain crunch by not overcooking.

Storing Tips

  • Storage: Store jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate.
  • Freshness: Use within 6 months for optimal taste.

Conclusion

Transform jalapeños into Cowboy Candy, a delightful mix of sweet and spicy. Quick, nutritious, and versatile, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Try it, share your experience, and subscribe for more culinary adventures.

FAQs

Shelf Life

Jars last up to 6 months unopened. Store in a cool place.

Pepper substitutes

Try Anaheim or Poblano peppers for different flavors.

Print
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Cowboy Candy (Sweet & Hot Pickled Jalapeños) Recipe


  • Author: Chef mia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 4 jars

Description

Dive into the vibrant world of pickling with this irresistible Cowboy Candy recipe! These sweet and spicy pickled jalapeños will jazz up any meal, adding a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you’re a canning novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.


Ingredients

  • Fresh jalapeños, 1 pound, sliced
  • Granulated sugar, 2 cups
  • Apple cider vinegar, 1 cup
  • Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon
  • Turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon
  • Celery seed, 1/2 teaspoon
  • Cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon (optional for an extra kick!)

Instructions

  1. Instructions

Notes

Glove Up: Handling jalapeños without gloves can lead to hours of stinging fingers!Flavor Twist: Feel free to substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar for a sharper taste.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Method: Preserves
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 25
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 10 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 0 g