The Ultimate Guide to Making Irresistibly Sweet and Spicy Candied Jalapenos at Home

If you’re a fan of spicy and sweet flavors, then you’ll definitely want to try these candied jalapenos. These little slices of heaven are the perfect combination of heat and sweetness. They add a bright and bold flavor to any dish that you serve them with, whether it’s tacos, eggs, or crackers.

Now, you may be thinking, “But I don’t know how to make candied jalapenos!” Well, fear not, my friend, because this recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few simple ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, the jalapenos themselves. You’ll need about 10 to 12 jalapenos, depending on how spicy you want your candied peppers to be. Don’t worry, though, because the heat of the jalapenos will be reduced during the boiling process.

To make the candied syrup, you’ll need a combination of sugar, vinegar, and water. This sweet and tangy syrup will coat the jalapeno slices and give them their addictive flavor. The recipe calls for granulated sugar, but if you want to add a bit of a kick to your jalapenos, you can use brown sugar instead. It adds a rich and caramel-like taste to the peppers.

To start, you’ll need to slice the jalapenos into thin rounds. If you don’t have a mandoline or a sharp knife, this is where having a food processor comes in handy. It will make quick work of slicing the jalapenos into perfect rounds. Just be sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos, as the oils can irritate your skin.

Next, you’ll want to bring the sugar, vinegar, and water to a boil. This will create the syrup that will coat the jalapeno slices. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This will help thicken the syrup and infuse it with the flavors of the jalapenos.

After the syrup has simmered for 10 minutes, it’s time to add the jalapeno slices. Be careful not to dump them all in at once, as the liquid will bubble up and possibly overflow. Instead, add the slices in small batches, stirring gently to coat them all in the syrup.

Let the jalapeno slices simmer in the syrup for about 5 minutes, or until they start to look slightly translucent. This is a sign that they’re almost done. You don’t want to cook them for too long, or they’ll turn mushy. The texture you’re looking for is slightly crisp with a tender bite.

Once the jalapenos are cooked to perfection, you can transfer them to jars for storage. Make sure the jars are clean and sterile, as this will help preserve the jalapenos. The canning process is optional, but it will extend the shelf life of your candied jalapenos.

Now that you know how to make candied jalapenos, go ahead and give this recipe a try. It’s a simple and delicious way to add a little spicy sweetness to your life. Whether you use them as a topping for tacos, a condiment for burgers, or a snack with crackers and cheese, these candied jalapenos are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Easy Candied Jalapenos Recipe: These Sweet Hot Candied Peppers Are Texas Cowboy Candy by Donna John

If you want a bright and flavorful addition to your tacos or cheese and crackers, look no further than this easy candied jalapenos recipe. These sweet and hot candied peppers, also known as Texas Cowboy Candy, are a combination of heat and sweetness that adds the perfect kick to any dish.

Donna John, the creator of this recipe, knows that timing is everything when it comes to making the perfect candied jalapenos. While they may seem intimidating, this recipe breaks it down into simple steps that anyone can follow.

First, you’ll need to reduce the heat of the jalapenos by removing their seeds and membranes. If you’re not strictly into hot food, this step is helpful to make the peppers more manageable. Once the jalapenos are prepped, you’ll want to give them a quick boiling water bath, which will help to soften them up.

Next, you’ll make a sweet syrup by combining sugar, vinegar, and some liquid from the jalapeno boiling process. This mixture is what will give the jalapenos their candied texture and taste. Just be careful with the timing – too long and the syrup can become too thick, too short and the jalapenos won’t fully candy.

Afterward, you’ll add the jalapenos to the syrup and let the mixture simmer for a while. This step allows the flavors to meld together and intensify. Don’t worry if it seems like there’s too much liquid at this point – as the syrup cools, it will thicken up.

Once the liquid has reduced and the jalapenos have been simmered, it’s time to process the mixture. Donna John recommends using a food processor or blender for this step. Just be careful not to overprocess – you want the jalapenos to be finely chopped but still have some texture.

The final step is to jar up your candied jalapenos and let them cool. Once they’re chilled, they’re ready to serve. These sweet hot candied peppers are the perfect addition to tacos, cheese and crackers, or even scrambled eggs. The combination of heat and sweetness will have your taste buds rolling!

If you’re not sure how many jalapenos or how much sugar to use, Donna John’s easy candied jalapenos recipe has you covered. And don’t be afraid to add in some extra heat – a teaspoon of cayenne pepper flakes or some finely chopped green chiles can take these candied jalapenos to the next level.

So, why not give this easy candied jalapenos recipe a try? It’s a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the heat of the jalapenos while satisfying your sweet tooth at the same time. Plus, you can make a big batch and have them on hand whenever you need that extra kick in your dishes. Trust us, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

How To Use Candied Jalapeños

Once you’ve made your delicious candied jalapeños, you may be wondering how to use them in your dishes. These sweet and spicy peppers can add a unique flavor to a variety of dishes, and their bright green color adds a pop of visual appeal. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1	Add them to your favorite sandwiches
2	Top your burgers or hot dogs with candied jalapeños
3	Use them as a topping for tacos or burritos
4	Mix them into egg dishes for an added kick
5	Pair them with cheese and crackers for a flavorful appetizer
6	Blend them into a marinade or sauce for meats
7	Use them as a garnish for soups or salads
8	Add them to your favorite chili recipe for an extra punch of heat
9	Roll them into a cream cheese spread for a delicious party appetizer
10	Try them in a combination with other pickled vegetables

There are so many ways to incorporate these candied jalapeños into your meals. Whether you want to spice up a sandwich or add a sweet and spicy kick to your eggs, these peppers are sure to please. Just be sure to use caution when handling them, as their heat can vary. Enjoy experimenting with this unique ingredient!

Ingredients for cowboy candy

When making cowboy candy, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 pounds of jalapeno peppers
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup of water

These ingredients when combined bring a perfect sweet and heat combination, making cowboy candy a popular treat in Texas. The bright green slices of jalapenos in the sweet syrup are a sight to behold and will definitely jazz up any dish.

One important thing to note is that the timing of when you add the jalapenos and how long you boil them for will affect their texture. If you want softer jalapenos, reduce the boiling time. If you prefer crunchier slices, boil them a little longer, but be careful not to overcook them.

While preparing cowboy candy, it is necessary to have some equipment on hand. You’ll need jars for canning the candy, as well as a water bath canner for processing. This will ensure that your cowboy candy is safely preserved and can be enjoyed for many months to come.

Once your cowboy candy is ready, you can use it in many ways. Serve it alongside cheese and crackers for a tasty appetizer, or use it to spice up tacos, eggs, or even sandwiches. The options are endless!

So, if you’re up for the challenge of making candied jalapenos, aka cowboy candy, you’ll find this recipe to be easy to follow. Just make sure to follow the processing guidelines and timing, and soon you’ll be rolling in jars of hot and sweet cowboy candy.

Cowboy Candy

If you’re a fan of heat and sweetness, then you need to try cowboy candy. This recipe takes ordinary jalapeños and turns them into a sweet and hot treat that is perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.

To make cowboy candy, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅓ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 cups sliced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)

To start, combine the sugar, vinegar, water, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a large saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the jalapeño slices. Stir to coat the slices in the sugar mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the peppers have softened slightly but still have a crunch.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeño slices to sterilized jars. Set aside.

Continue cooking the sugar mixture over medium-low heat for another 5 minutes to thicken the syrup. It should have a slightly thick, syrup-like texture.

Pour the syrup over the jalapeños in the jars, covering them completely. Use a clean, sterilized tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.

Seal the jars tightly and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. This will help preserve the cowboy candy and ensure it stays safe to eat.

Once processed, allow the jars to cool for at least 24 hours before serving. The flavors will continue to develop over time, so it’s best to wait a few days before indulging.

When you’re ready to serve, cowboy candy is delicious on its own or as a topping for burgers, tacos, eggs, or crackers. The bright green color and sweet-hot combination add a kick to any dish.

So if you’re in Texas or just want to bring a taste of the Wild West to your kitchen, give cowboy candy a try! It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a sure crowd-pleaser.

Candied Jalapenos Recipe

If you love spicy foods and a touch of sweetness, then this candied jalapenos recipe is perfect for you. These little slices of heaven are versatile and can be used in so many ways. They bring the perfect combination of heat and sweet to any dish or snack, whether it’s tacos, crackers, cheese, or even just on their own.

Here’s how to make your own candied jalapenos:

1. Start by slicing your jalapeños into thin rings. Remember to wear gloves while handling jalapeños to avoid any irritation on your skin.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sliced jalapeños along with the ingredients you’ll need to make the candied syrup: vinegar, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. You can also add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you want to up the heat level.
3. Bring the mixture to a full boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the peppers have slightly softened.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños into sterilized jars. Make sure the peppers are packed tightly without any gaps.
5. Pour the hot liquid over the jalapeños, making sure all the peppers are covered. Leave a little bit of headspace at the top of each jar.
6. Place the lids on the jars and process them in a boiling water canner for about 10 minutes. This step is necessary for preserving the jalapeños and ensuring they stay fresh for a longer time.
7. Once processed, remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. As they cool, the liquid will turn into a syrup that will coat the jalapeños and give them their candied texture.
8. Once cooled, your candied jalapeños are ready to be enjoyed! They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

These candied jalapeños are a hit at parties and gatherings. They add a bright and sweet kick to any dish and can be used to spice up your everyday meals. Whether you’re a cowboy craving some heat on your steak or Donna who wants to impress her guests with a unique appetizer, these candied jalapeños will not disappoint.

So, now that you know how to make candied jalapenos, give this recipe a try and discover a new flavor that will have you rolling your eyes in delight!

How to serve cowboy candy

Once you have made your delicious candied jalapeños, also known as cowboy candy, you may be wondering how to serve them. Luckily, there are many ways to enjoy their sweet and spicy flavor. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Straight out of the jar: If you simply can’t wait to dig in, you can enjoy cowboy candy straight out of the jar with a spoon or fork. The combination of the syrupy heat and the bright green peppers is addictive and will have you coming back for more.	As a topping: Cowboy candy can be used as a delicious topping for many dishes. Try adding a spoonful or two to your tacos, sandwiches, or burgers for an extra burst of flavor. The sweet and spicy mixture will complement the other ingredients perfectly.
With cheese and crackers: A classic combination, cowboy candy pairs well with cheese and crackers. The sweet and spicy jalapeño slices will add a touch of heat and brightness to the creamy cheese and crunchy crackers. It’s a winning combination that is sure to impress your guests.	In cocktails and drinks: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try using cowboy candy in your cocktails and drinks. The sweet and spicy syrup can add a unique flavor to margaritas, bloody marys, or even lemonade. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
As a garnish: Don’t overlook the visual appeal of cowboy candy. The bright green jalapeños can be a beautiful and flavorful garnish for many dishes. Try adding a few slices to deviled eggs, salads, or even into your favorite hot soups.	In recipes: Get creative with how you incorporate cowboy candy into your recipes. The sweet and spicy flavor can add a kick to dips, sauces, salsas, and more. Just be sure to adjust the amount and timing based on the specific recipe you are using.

However you choose to serve cowboy candy, the important thing is to enjoy it. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Texas flavors or just love the combination of sweet and heat, these candied jalapeños are sure to bring a unique twist to any dish.

You will need this equipment to make Candied Jalapenos

• A large pot for boiling the jalapenos
• A sharp knife for slicing the jalapenos
• A cutting board to work on
• A pair of gloves to protect your hands from the jalapeno heat
• A canning funnel to easily fill the jars
• A ladle to pour the syrup over the jalapenos
• A slotted spoon to remove the jalapenos from the pot
• A small strainer to drain the jalapenos before adding them to the syrup
• A candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the syrup
• Airtight jars or containers to store the candied jalapenos

These are the essential equipment that you will need to make candied jalapenos. While some of them may not be strictly necessary, they will make the process much easier and help ensure the perfect texture and taste of the final product.

If you have never made candied jalapenos before, it’s helpful to know that the preparation involves boiling the jalapenos, slicing them into thin strips, and then cooking them in a sweet and spicy syrup. This syrup is made from a combination of sugar, vinegar, and spices such as cayenne pepper flakes and celery seeds. The boiling and processing time can vary, so timing is crucial. Using a candy thermometer will help you monitor the temperature and make sure the syrup reaches the perfect consistency.

Once the jalapenos are cooked in the syrup, they’re ready to be packed into jars or containers. The syrup adds a sweet and spicy kick to their bright green color and brings out their natural heat. These candied jalapenos are perfect for adding to tacos, burgers, or even just serving with crackers and cheese. They can also be used as a topping for pizza or in a variety of recipes that could use a sweet and spicy kick.

So if you’re a fan of spicy food and you want to make your own candied jalapenos at home, make sure to gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients. Follow the recipe carefully and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and hot flavors that Texas native Donna John has perfected over the years.

And this equipment is helpful but not strictly necessary

One piece of equipment that is often used in candying recipes is a candy thermometer. This tool allows you to accurately monitor the temperature of the sugar syrup as it cooks. However, if you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can still make candied jalapenos successfully by using visual cues and timing the cooking process carefully. Just make sure to keep an eye on the mixture and adjust the heat as needed.

Another helpful item to have is a rolling pin. This can be used to gently crush the peppers, releasing some of their juices and ensuring that the flavors will infuse the syrup fully. However, if you don’t have a rolling pin, you can use the back of a spoon or a heavy object to achieve a similar effect.

When it comes to jars for storing the candied jalapenos, you can use any clean, airtight container that you have on hand. Mason jars or glass containers with tight-fitting lids work well. However, if you don’t have these specific types of jars, don’t worry! You can use any sealable container that will keep the jalapenos fresh.

So, while having certain equipment can be helpful in making candied jalapenos, it is not strictly necessary. With the right combination of ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a batch of delicious and sweet candied jalapenos without fancy tools or gadgets. Just follow the recipe, adjust the timing and heat as needed, and enjoy the bright and flavorful results.

Video:

Easy 3 Ingredient Candied Jalapenos | How to Make Cowboy Candy with Just 3 Simple Ingredients