Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant and spicy-sweet treat that brings a unique twist to your condiment collection. It combines tart cranberries with fiery jalapeños for a deliciously bold spread or topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine cranberries, chopped jalapeños, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water in a large pot.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
- Step 3: Carefully pour the hot mixture into sterilized jars.
- Step 4: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before sealing them tightly.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping.
- Add a cinnamon stick or a small piece of ginger during simmering for extra warmth and depth.
- Use this cowboy candy as a glaze for meats, a topping for cream cheese, or a spicy addition to sandwiches.
Storage
Store sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer preservation, consider processing the jars in a water bath canner following safe canning guidelines. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. Reheat gently if using as a glaze.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. Just thaw them before starting the recipe to ensure even cooking and thickening.
How spicy will this cowboy candy be?
The heat depends on how many seeds and membranes you include from the jalapeños. Removing seeds will reduce spiciness, while including them will make it quite fiery.
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Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 3 jars (8 oz each) 1x
Description
Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a sweet and spicy preserve combining fresh cranberries and jalapeño peppers simmered with sugar and vinegar. This flavorful treat is perfect as a tangy condiment or a zesty addition to cheese boards, sandwiches, and grilled meats.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 2 cups of chopped jalapeño peppers, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup of water. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, ensuring all sugar dissolves and ingredients start to mingle.
- Simmer to Thicken: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently. This cooks down the fruits and peppers, thickening it into a jam-like consistency.
- Stir Frequently: Regular stirring during simmering prevents sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot and helps to evenly cook the mixture.
- Jar the Candy: Pour the hot mixture carefully into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace. This step ensures safety and longevity of the preserve.
- Cool and Seal: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before sealing them tightly with lids. The candy will continue to set as it cools.
Notes
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from capsaicin.
- Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your preferred heat level.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- Store sealed jars in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place for optimal shelf life up to 3 months.
- This condiment pairs well with cream cheese, grilled meats, and sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry jalapeño cowboy candy, spicy cranberry preserve, jalapeño jam, sweet and spicy condiment, holiday preserves
