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Large jar of Cowboy Candy

Cowboy Candy

Contributed by : Jane Berthiaume
jane-berthiaume-20220708205352
Canadian Recipes : Canning/ Preserving

Cowboy Candy: The Sweet Heat That Steals the Show

This isn’t just a condiment—it’s a revelation. Cowboy Candy takes humble jalapeños and transforms them into golden rings of sweet heat, preserved in a syrupy brine that somehow makes everything better. From burgers and brisket to pizza and cheese boards, these fiery little gems add a kick of flavor and a burst of memory to every bite.

We found this recipe on OldWorldGardenFarms.com and it quickly became a staple in our family kitchen. In fact, we now grow an entire row of jalapeño plants just to keep up with our craving. It’s that good.

Whether you’re slathering it on a sandwich or spooning it over cream cheese and crackers for a crowd-pleasing snack, Cowboy Candy is one of those recipes that turns into a tradition overnight. Also check out our Cowboy Candy Rollups!

Total Time

3 hrs

Prepare Time

1hr

Cook Time

Not Mentioned

Recipe Servings

8-10 250ml Jars

Ingredients of
Cowboy Candy

  • 4 pounds fresh jalapenos, washed (about 16 cups sliced) 
  • 2 cups apple cider vinegar 
  • 6 cups granulated sugar (or 2lbs 10.2ozs)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric 
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed 
  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped 

How to Make
Cowboy Candy

  1. Setup for canning: Fill water bath & turn on high, put jars & collars in oven at 225 for 20 min, put a small sauce pan on the stove with hot water for lids.
  2. Wash & cut jalapenos into 1/4 inch slices.
  3. Put all ingredients except jalapeños in a large pot and turn on high until it boils. Turn to a simmer for 5 mins.
  4. Add sliced jalapeños, bring back to a boil and simmer for about 5 mins or until peppers become a dull green.
  5. Fill jars with peppers no more than 1/4 inch from the top of the jar.
  6. Bring liquid back to a boil and simmer syrup another 6 mins to thicken.
  7. Add syrup leaving at least 1/4 inch of air space to the top of the jar. Remove air bubbles with a plastic spoon down the side of the jar. Place a hot lid and collar on to finger tight.
  8. Place jars in canning bath leaving some space between them. Boil for 10 mins.
  9. Put hot jars on a tea towel on the counter for 24 hours. Do not disturb the jars while they settle.
  10. Label jars and store in a cool, dark area.


Notes

If you want to do the small gift size jars, this is how many they will make. 18-24 125ml Jars