Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy: 1 Amazing Treat

When the holidays roll around, there’s always room on the table for something that surprises and delights. Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is that special treat—bursting with vibrant flavors that elevate any meal or gathering. I discovered this recipe during a festive cooking session with friends, and its unique combination of sweet cranberries and spicy jalapeños blew us away. Trust me; this is not just a unique flavor experience—it’s also a conversation starter!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy apart from your typical condiment is its beautiful balance of flavor and versatility. The sweetness of fresh cranberries paired with the heat of jalapeño peppers offers a delightful twist that can enhance everything from holiday turkey to your everyday cheese platter. Plus, it’s quick to make—ready in about 30 minutes.

"This cowboy candy is a game-changer! I served it at my family Thanksgiving, and it disappeared within minutes. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy!"

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Creating this tasty treat is straightforward. Begin by combining your ingredients in a pot, bring them to a boil, simmer, and let the mixture thicken. Afterward, it’s simply a matter of pouring into sterilized jars. Here’s what you’ll be doing in a nutshell:

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
3. Simmer until thickened (15-20 minutes).
4. Pour into jars and let cool.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this delightful cowboy candy, you will need:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 2 cups jalapeño peppers, chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water

Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños, depending on your palate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a pot, combine the cranberries, chopped jalapeños, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking.
4. As it cooks, you’ll notice it thickening up nicely.
5. Once thickened, carefully pour the mixture into sterilized jars while hot.
6. Let the jars cool completely before sealing them.

Best Way to Serve

This cowboy candy is incredibly versatile. Spread it on crackers with cream cheese for a tasty appetizer or spoon it over roasted chicken or pork for an unexpected twist. It also makes the perfect topping for a charcuterie board, balancing cheeses and meats with its sweet and spicy flavors.

Storage Tips

To keep your Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2-3 weeks. If you want to make this treat ahead of time, it also freezes well—just ensure you use freezer-safe jars or containers. Always prioritize food safety; once opened, consume within the same time frame.

Pro Chef Tips

• Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
• Sterilize your jars by boiling them beforehand, which helps preserve the candy longer.
• For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.

Creative Twists

Looking for ways to customize this recipe? Consider adding a handful of chopped pecans for crunch or using habanero peppers for a different spice profile. You could even experiment with different vinegars—like balsamic— to give it a richer flavor.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?
The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for last-minute gatherings.

Can I substitute the sugar?
Yes, alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup can be used, but be aware that it may alter the texture.

How can I use this in recipes?
Use it as a condiment for sandwiches, as a glaze for meats, or even as a unique filling for pastries.

By incorporating this Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy into your culinary repertoire, you’re not just making a dish; you’re creating a flavorful experience that’s sure to wow your guests. Happy cooking!

Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy

---

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A vibrant condiment that combines sweet cranberries with spicy jalapeños, perfect for enhancing meals or serving on charcuterie boards.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 2 cups jalapeño peppers, chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water

---

Instructions

1. In a pot, combine the cranberries, chopped jalapeños, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Pour the mixture into sterilized jars while hot.
5. Let the jars cool completely before sealing them.

Notes

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Making
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cowboy candy, cranberry jalapeño, holiday condiment