Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet, spicy, and tangy treat made by caramelizing pineapple chunks and jalapeños in a sugary syrup. This addictive condiment is perfect for adding a kick to burgers, tacos, sandwiches, or even as a topping for cream cheese and crackers. The balance of heat and sweetness makes it an irresistible addition to any meal or snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Spicy – A perfect balance of heat from jalapeños and sweetness from pineapple.
- Versatile Condiment – Great for burgers, tacos, grilled meats, or appetizers.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Flavors intensify the longer it sits.
- Unique & Addictive – A twist on classic cowboy candy with a tropical kick!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh or canned pineapple (diced)
- Jalapeños (sliced, seeds removed for less heat)
- Apple cider vinegar
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients – Slice jalapeños and dice pineapple into small chunks.
- Make the Syrup – In a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, honey, and spices. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add Pineapple & Jalapeños – Stir in pineapple and jalapeños, simmering for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens into a syrupy consistency.
- Jar & Cool – Transfer to sterilized jars and let cool completely before storing.
- Enjoy! – Serve over burgers, tacos, grilled meats, or with cream cheese and crackers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 2-3 cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Extra Heat – Add habanero or serrano peppers for more spice.
- Mild Version – Use only pineapple and a small amount of jalapeño.
- Tropical Twist – Add mango or peaches for more fruitiness.
- Smoky Flavor – Use chipotle powder instead of red pepper flakes.
- Vinegar Swap – Use white vinegar for a sharper tang.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight jar for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezing: Not recommended as texture may change.
- Canning: Follow proper sterilization methods for long-term storage.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, just drain the juice before adding it to the syrup.
How spicy is this recipe?
Medium heat—remove jalapeño seeds for a milder version.
What do I serve this with?
Try it on burgers, sandwiches, tacos, grilled chicken, or as a dip with crackers and cream cheese.
Can I make this without sugar?
Yes! Use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
How do I make this thicker?
Let it simmer longer until the syrup reduces.
Can I store this at room temperature?
Only if properly canned—otherwise, refrigerate for freshness.
What type of peppers work best?
Jalapeños are traditional, but serrano or habanero can add extra heat.
How do I prevent the syrup from crystallizing?
Stir well while cooking and avoid overheating the sugar.
Can I use this as a glaze?
Yes! Brush it onto meats while grilling for a sweet-spicy glaze.
How long should I let it sit before eating?
For best flavor, let it rest for at least 24 hours before serving.
Conclusion
Pineapple Cowboy Candy is the ultimate sweet and spicy condiment that adds a bold punch to any dish. Whether you’re topping burgers, tacos, or enjoying it as a dip, this easy-to-make treat will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and experience the perfect blend of heat and sweetness!
PrintPineapple Cowboy Candy
This Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet, spicy, and tangy treat featuring candied jalapeños and pineapple in a sticky syrup. It’s the perfect condiment for burgers, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or even as a topping for grilled meats!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern, Tex-Mex
Ingredients
- 1½ cups fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained if canned)
- 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, adds color & depth)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Jalapeños & Pineapple:
- Slice the jalapeños into thin rounds, removing seeds for a milder version.
- If using fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks.
2. Make the Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne.
- Stir and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the syrup to thicken slightly.
3. Add the Jalapeños & Pineapple:
- Add sliced jalapeños and pineapple chunks to the syrup.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until jalapeños soften and become glossy.
4. Jar & Store:
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños and pineapple to sterilized jars.
- Pour the hot syrup over the top, making sure everything is submerged.
- Let cool slightly, then seal jars and refrigerate.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- For best flavor, let sit in the fridge for 24-48 hours before using.
- Serve as a topping for burgers, cream cheese & crackers, tacos, or BBQ meats!
Notes
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 months.
- Canning Option: Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for shelf-stable storage.
- Heat Level: Adjust cayenne or remove jalapeño seeds to control spiciness.
- Extra Thick Syrup? Simmer longer until reduced to a sticky glaze.