Let’s talk about how to make cowboy candy, shall we? It’s a classic recipe, really, and a great way to preserve your summer jalapeno harvest. You can preserve them in a water bath and keep them in the pantry, or just store them in the refrigerator for a few months easily, which I’ve included in the recipe card. They’re a perfect combination of sweet and spicy and they’re ideal for quick sweet snacks or garnishing. The candying process also helps to preserve them, too. The term has been around for ages, but the recipe is so popular, a small company even trademarked the common name. This homemade version is far superior. Everything is better homemade, isn’t it? And super easy! Why buy this stuff when you can SO EASILY make it at home? Got any questions? Ask away! I’m happy to help. If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you’ll leave a comment with some STARS.Also, please share it on social media. Don’t forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I’ll be sure to share! Thanks! — Mike H.
Jalapeno Peppers. Sugar. Apple Cider Vinegar. Seasonings. I use chili powder, turmeric, ground ginger and others. Use your favorites. Celery seed and garlic powder are popular.
Bring to a full rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer until the sugar dissolves into a gooey syrup. You can cool it slightly first if you’d like. Makes about 3.5 cups. Packed into three 1/2 pint jars. It’s super awesome over cream cheese. Smear some cream cheese over crackers and top them with candied jalapenos. Amazingly delicious. You can even mix them into a serving bowl with cream cheese for a candied jalapeno cream cheese dip. Garnish a cocktail with them. Margaritas, anyone? Chop and swirl some into your favorite guacamole recipe for a touch of sweetness. Use them to top off hamburgers and hot dogs. So many ways to serve up your candied jalapeños! Just quit stealing them off the plate, Mike!
Wear Gloves: Peppers can cause skin irritation and burning. Some people are more sensitive than others. The oils from the peppers can get onto your skin when handling them, and especially cutting them. It is best to wear gloves when handling hot peppers. If you notice any skin burn, go to this page - How to Stop the Chili Pepper Burn. Slicing the Jalapenos: You’ll be chopping a LOT of jalapeño peppers for this recipe. Use a mandolin or food processor with a slicing accessory to save some chopping time. Removing the Seeds and Innards: If your concerned about the overall heat, you can core out the jalapenos before slicing them. Most of the heat resides in the pepper innards.
I’ve included how to process them with a water bath below and in the recipe card. The process is great with spicier peppers. I personally love candied habaneros. Crazy delicious. The candying process tamps the heat quite a bit with candied jalapenos or any pepper, so they won’t be as spicy as you might expect. Try making these with superhot chili peppers as well, like scorpions or Reapers. Oh baby! This recipe was updated on 8/18/2023 to include new photos and a video. It was previously published on 5/19/2014.
