Pineapple Cowboy Candy Recipe

Posted on May 2, 2025

Jar of homemade Pineapple Cowboy Candy with jalapeños and pineapple in a sticky sweet-spicy syrup

Get ready to meet your new favorite pantry treat — Pineapple Cowboy Candy! This sweet-and-spicy combo blends juicy pineapple chunks with zesty jalapeños in a sticky, flavorful syrup. It’s the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it irresistible on everything from burgers to charcuterie boards. Plus, it’s super simple to make at home with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re into canning or just want to spice up snack time, this recipe brings major flavor without a ton of fuss.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Cowboy Candy

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, Pineapple Cowboy Candy is going to steal your heart (and tastebuds). It’s the perfect mix of tropical sweetness and spicy kick—like candied jalapeños but with a fruity twist! You can spoon it over cream cheese for an easy appetizer, stack it on a sandwich, or gift it in a cute jar. This recipe is beginner-friendly, customizable, and great for small batches or big-batch canning. It’s also a conversation starter—people will ask you for the recipe. Trust us, once you try it, you’ll want to keep a jar on hand at all times.

Ingredients

This recipe keeps it simple—just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, and you’re good to go. Make sure to use ripe pineapple for the best flavor, and don’t be shy with the jalapeños if you like a little heat!

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups fresh pineapple, diced (about 1 small pineapple)
6–8 fresh jalapeños, sliced into rings (remove seeds for less heat)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tsp turmeric
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)

How to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy

This recipe is super straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Just slice, simmer, and jar it up. You’ll have a sweet-and-spicy treat in no time!

Step-by-step instructions:

Prep your ingredients:
Dice the pineapple and slice the jalapeños into thin rings. If you prefer a milder candy, remove some or all of the jalapeño seeds.
Make the syrup:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, ground ginger, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Add the fruit and peppers:
Once the syrup is bubbling, stir in the diced pineapple and jalapeño slices. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until everything softens and the syrup thickens slightly.
Jar it up:
Carefully spoon the pineapple and jalapeños into sterilized jars. Pour the hot syrup over the top, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids.
Cool and store:
Let the jars cool to room temperature before transferring to the fridge. For best flavor, let it sit for 24 hours before enjoying (if you can wait!).

Servings and Timing

This small-batch recipe is perfect for gifting or keeping on hand for snacking and entertaining. It comes together quickly, and you can easily double or triple the batch for canning or parties.

Yields: About 2–3 half-pint jars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Tips and Variations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are a few simple swaps and creative ways to enjoy your Pineapple Cowboy Candy:

Milder version: Remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, or use fewer peppers for a gentler heat.
Extra spicy: Add a habanero or a pinch more red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold.
Different fruit: Try subbing mango or peach for a tropical twist.
Zesty upgrade: Add a squeeze of lime juice or a bit of lime zest for extra brightness.
Serving ideas: Spoon it over grilled chicken or pork, mix it into cream cheese for a spicy-sweet dip, or pile it onto tacos, burgers, or breakfast sandwiches.
Gift idea: Pour into cute jars, tie with twine, and label for a homemade edible gift that’s always a hit!

Storage

Once your Pineapple Cowboy Candy is jarred and cooled, it stores beautifully—whether you’re popping it in the fridge or planning to preserve it for longer.

Refrigerator: Store sealed jars in the fridge for up to 3 months. Once opened, use within 2–3 weeks for best flavor and texture.
Canning: If you’d like to make it shelf-stable, you can process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This method lets you store them in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Freezing (optional): You can also freeze it in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw in the fridge before using.

FAQs

What is Pineapple Cowboy Candy?

It’s a sweet and spicy condiment made from pineapple and jalapeños simmered in a sugary vinegar syrup. Think candied jalapeños with a tropical twist!

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes! Just be sure to drain it well. Fresh gives the best texture, but canned works in a pinch.

How spicy is this?

That depends on the jalapeños and whether you include the seeds. It’s a medium heat by default but easily adjustable.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just keep an eye on your simmer time—larger batches may need a few extra minutes.

What can I serve this with?

It’s amazing on burgers, cream cheese with crackers, grilled meats, or even pizza!

How long does it need to sit before eating?

It’s delicious right away, but even better after 24 hours when the flavors have time to meld.

Do I need to sterilize the jars if I’m refrigerating?

It’s still a good idea! Clean, sterilized jars help the candy stay fresh longer, even in the fridge.

Whether you’re a spicy food lover or just pineapple-obsessed, Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a fun, flavorful twist that you’ll keep coming back to. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for sharing—or not! From cheese boards to BBQs, this little jar of sweet heat brings a burst of sunshine to any dish.

Craving more tasty recipes? Follow @butteryrecipes on Pinterest and Facebook for daily inspiration!

More Creamy Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

1. Try pairing this with our Coconut Pineapple Bites for a tropical-themed party platter!

2. This cowboy candy is amazing spread over cream cheese and served with crackers—or even alongside this Dill Pickle Bread!

3. Leftover pineapple? Make this lush Hawaiian Banana Bread next!