Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s become a total obsession in my house: Candied Jalapeños. Seriously, these little gems are like the rebellious love child of sweet pickles and spicy peppers, and trust me, they’re addictive! If you’re a fan of bread and butter pickles, imagine that sweet tang, but with a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds. My grandma used to make the best bread and butter pickles every summer, and these candied jalapeños give me that same comforting feeling, but with a modern, fiery twist. They’re incredibly easy to make, and I guarantee they’ll be the star of your next charcuterie board, taco night, or even just a random Tuesday afternoon snack!
What is candied jalapeos?
Alright, let’s break it down. Candied Jalapeños, sometimes called “Cowboy Candy,” are essentially fresh jalapeño peppers that have been simmered in a sugary syrup until they’re delightfully sweet, slightly chewy, and packing a serious punch of heat. Think of it as a grown-up, slightly dangerous version of gummy candy. It’s essentially a pickling process, but instead of the vinegar-heavy brine you might expect, we’re using sugar as the main preservative, balanced with a little vinegar and spices to create a sweet and spicy symphony. Don’t let the name intimidate you; they’re surprisingly approachable, even for those who aren’t huge spice fanatics. My spice-averse sister-in-law devoured half the jar last Thanksgiving!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh honey, where do I even begin? The reasons to love this Candied Jalapeños Recipe are endless, but I’ll try to narrow it down. First, the flavor is absolutely insane! You get the initial sweetness that melts on your tongue, followed by a wave of jalapeño heat that lingers just long enough to keep you coming back for more. It’s a sweet, spicy, tangy flavor bomb that’s totally unique. Second, the simplicity is a game-changer. Seriously, you just slice, simmer, and jar – that’s it! No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required. I can whip up a batch in under an hour, which is a lifesaver when unexpected guests arrive. Third, let’s talk about budget-friendliness. Jalapeños are pretty inexpensive, especially if you grow your own (which I totally recommend!). The other ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t be breaking the bank. And finally, the versatility! These candied jalapeños are amazing on everything. I mean EVERYTHING! I put them on tacos, burgers, pizzas, nachos, scrambled eggs, and even grilled cheese. I’ve even been known to sneak a spoonful straight from the jar! What I love most about this is how unexpected they are. People always do a double take when they try them, and then they’re hooked. It’s like the culinary equivalent of a surprise party, but with a delicious ending. You can even compare this to making a spicy pepper jelly, but it gives the advantage of being a solid and much more attractive.
How do I make candied jalapeos?
Quick Overview
Making candied jalapeños is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll start by slicing the jalapeños and simmering them in a sugar, vinegar, and spice mixture until they soften and the syrup thickens. Then, you’ll carefully transfer them to sterilized jars for safe keeping. The whole process takes less than an hour, and the result is a sweet, spicy, and totally addictive treat that will elevate everything you put it on. The best part? The longer they sit, the better they get! I always try to make a big batch so I have some on hand for weeks to come.
Ingredients
For the Candied Jalapeos:
* 1 pound fresh jalapeo peppers, sliced into 14-inch thick rounds (wear gloves!)
* 1 cup apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang)
* 2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for a savory note)
* ½ teaspoon turmeric (for the rich color)
* 1 teaspoon celery seed (adds a touch of earthiness)
* 14 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
How do I get
Step 1: Prep & Sterilize Jars
Before you touch a pepper, get your jars ready. You’ll need 2-3 pint-sized vases. How do you sterilize a large pot of boiling water? Water for 10 minutes. Why is candied jalapeos shelf-stable? Let the jars cool before filling.
Step 2: Slice the Jalapeños
Where do gloves come in? Don’t skip this step unless you want fiery fingers for the rest of the day. Slice the jalapeos into 14-inch rounds. Can you remove the seeds for less heat, but I like to leave some in for an extra kick.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the sliced jalapeos, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic and salt. Set aside. What are the ingredients in turmeric powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin seeds? Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes. How long will it take for the jalapeos to soften and the syrup to thicken? What should I do if I overcook my onions? You want them to still have a little bite.
Step 5: Jar It Up!
Carefully transfer the hot jalapeños and syrup to the sterilized jars, leaving about ½-inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, then place the lids and rings on top. Screw the rings on tightly, but not too tightly.
Step 6: Process for Shelf Stability (Optional)
If you want to ensure your candied jalapeos are shelf-stable, you can process them in a boiling water. If you are in a water bath for 10 minutes, then you If you have a large jar, put it in the refrigerator and let it cool completely on the counter. Is it possible to store a few weeks in the fridge?
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Let the jars cool completely before opening. The flavor will continue to develop as they sit. I usually wait at least a day or two before digging in, but I totally understand if you can’t. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
What to Serve It With
What to Serve It With
Where does the fun start? What are some of the best ways to use candied jalapeos in cooking? What are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them?
For Breakfast:What are some good ways to top scrambled eggs with candied jalapeos? I also love adding them to Breakfast Tacos with chorizo and cheese.
For Brunch:Set out a jar of candied jalapeos alongside your charcuterie board or cheese platter. They pair perfectly with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, and they add a nice contrast to cream cheese. cured meats like prosciutto and salami.
As Dessert: Okay, hear me out! Candied jalapeños are surprisingly delicious with vanilla Ice Cream or dark chocolate. The sweet and spicy combination is totally unexpected, but trust me, it works!
For Cozy Snacks:Serve them with nachos, quesadillas or just a bowl of tortilla chips and guacamole. What are some of the best burgers and sandwiches you’ve ever had?
My family loves candied jalapeos on pizza. What are some good alternatives? What is the best White Pizza Recipe with ricotta cheese, prosciutto, and candied walnuts? What is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy? I’ve also been known to add them to mac and cheese for an extra kick. What are the possibilities? Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite ways to enjoy them.
What are some tips for perfecting candied jalapeos?
Alright, friends, I’ve made a LOT of batches of these candied jalapeños over the years, and I’ve learned a few things along the way. Here are my top tips for perfecting your own batch:
Jalapeño Prep:Always wear gloves when slicing jalapeos! Do you want to touch your eyes or any other sensitive areas after handling them? If you’re sensitive to spice, remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Can you soak jalapeos in ice water for an hour before candying them?
Spice Level:Can you adjust the amount of sugar and cayenne pepper to your liking? If you prefer a sweeter candied jalapeo, add more sugar. If you want more heat, add more cayenne pepper or leave more seeds in the jalapeos. Can you experiment with different types of peppers, like serranos or habaneros, for a different flavor? I did that once…never again!
Consistency:The syrup should thicken slightly as it simmers, but it will continue to heat up as the syrup cools. How do you cook jalapeos? You want them to still have a little bite.
Jarring:Make sure your jars are properly sterilized before filling them. How do you keep candied jalapeos fresh? Leave about 12 inch of headspace in each jar to allow for expansion during processing.
Processing: If you want to ensure your candied jalapeños are shelf-stable, you can process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is optional, but it will help prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of your candied jalapeños.
Flavor Development: HowThe flavor of candied jalapeos will continue to develop as they sit. I usually wait at least a day or two before digging in, but I totally understand if you can’t do it. The longer they sit, the better they get.
I’ve found that sometimes my kids want them and sometimes they find them too spicy, so I always keep them in the house. A batch of milder ones and a batch extra spicy ones. It saves arguments and makes everyone happy!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Okay, let’s talk storage. Candied jalapeños can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks, or even months, if properly processed. Here’s a breakdown:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing them at room temperature. They need to be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
Refrigerator Storage: Store opened jars of candied jalapeños in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Make sure the jalapeños are submerged in the syrup to prevent them from drying out. I usually put a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the jalapeños before sealing the jar to help keep them fresh.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing candied jalapeños. The texture of the jalapeños will change when frozen and thawed, and they may become mushy.
Glaze Timing Advice: The syrup will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little thin when you first jar them. If the syrup is too thick, you can add a little water to thin it out before serving. I’ve even tried adding a bit of tequila to it! It’s not for everyone, but it’s delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to Candied Jalapeños Recipe that’s sure to add a sweet and spicy kick to your life. Seriously, these little gems are so easy to make, and they’re a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re topping your tacos, jazzing up your cheese board, or just sneaking a spoonful straight from the jar (no judgment here!), these candied jalapeños are guaranteed to be a hit. If you’re looking for more fun and flavorful recipes, be sure to check out my other posts. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your candied jalapeños turned out! I can’t wait to hear about your creations and any variations you come up with. Happy candying!
