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Cowboy Candy Canning Recipe

A sweet and spicy treat that transforms jalapeños into addictive candied bites perfect for snacking, gifting, or topping your favorite foods.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 pints
Course: Condiment, Preserve
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

Peppers and Canning Liquid
  • 6 pounds fresh jalapeños sliced into rings about 1/4 inch thick
  • 2 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 3 1/2 cups brown sugar packed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons yellow mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon celery seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Water for the canning bath

Equipment

  • Large stainless steel pot for canning
  • Canning jars (pint-sized, 6 jars recommended)
  • Jar lifter for safe handling
  • Funnel with wide mouth opening
  • Bubble remover tool
  • Clean kitchen towels
  • Large cutting board and sharp knife
  • Stainless steel saucepan for the syrup
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Thermometer to check syrup temperature
  • Canning pot with rack and lid

Method
 

  1. Prepare your canning equipment by sterilizing jars in boiling water.
  2. Wash your jalapeños under cool running water and slice them into rings about 1/4 inch thick.
  3. In a large saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric. Heat over medium until the brown sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the sliced jalapeños to the syrup and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Using a jar lifter, remove a hot jar from the canning pot and place it on a clean kitchen towel.
  6. Ladle the hot peppers and syrup into the jar, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.
  7. Use a bubble remover tool to eliminate air bubbles, then wipe the rim of the jar with a damp cloth.
  8. Place canning lids on top and screw down the bands until finger-tight.
  9. Process jars in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
  10. Carefully remove jars from water bath and place on a clean towel to cool completely.
  11. Allow jars to cool for 12 to 24 hours before checking seals.

Notes

Cowboy candy is great as a snack or condiment, perfect for topping various dishes.