Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
Introduction
Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant and tangy preserve that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. This versatile condiment adds a punch of flavor to sandwiches, cheese boards, and grilled meats.
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 the 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 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
- Step 3: Pour the thickened mixture into sterilized jars.
- Step 4: Allow the jars to cool completely before sealing them tightly.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping.
- Add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cloves during cooking for extra warmth.
- Use this cowboy candy as a glaze for roasted meats or as a spicy-sweet topping on cream cheese and crackers.
Storage
Store the sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within two weeks. For longer storage, process jars in a water bath canner following proper canning guidelines.
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. Thaw and drain any excess liquid before starting to avoid diluting the mixture.
How spicy is this cowboy candy?
The heat level depends on the jalapeños used. Removing seeds will reduce spiciness, while keeping them in will deliver a moderate heat balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and tartness of the cranberries.
PrintSweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant, tangy preserves recipe combining fresh cranberries with chopped jalapeño peppers, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Perfect as a zesty condiment or glaze, this thickened jam balances sweet and heat, ideal for enhancing cheese boards, sandwiches, or grilled dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 3 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
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: Place the fresh cranberries, chopped jalapeño peppers, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water into a large pot, ensuring all ingredients are mixed evenly.
- Boil Mixture: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer to Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency and the cranberries have burst.
- Jar the Candy: Carefully pour the hot cowboy candy into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace at the top.
- Cool and Seal: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before sealing tightly with lids to preserve freshness.
Notes
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- The cowboy candy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or processed in a water bath for longer shelf life.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat level to your preference.
Keywords: cranberry jalapeño jam, cowboy candy, spicy cranberry preserves, sweet and spicy condiment, holiday jams
