Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistibly Addictive!
This Pineapple Cowboy Candy combines juicy pineapple with a fiery-sweet glaze, creating the ultimate condiment for burgers, grilled meats, cheese boards, or even straight-from-the-jar snacking. A tropical twist on classic cowboy candy that’s guaranteed to become your new obsession!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect heat-sweet balance – Tropical pineapple tames the spicy kick
Versatile uses – Glaze for meats, topping for desserts, or cocktail garnish
Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
Crowd-pleasing gift – Beautiful in jars with ribbon
Ingredients
(Makes about 3 cups)
Main Components
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled & cut into 1″ chunks (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 tbsp minced candied ginger
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pineapple
- Cut pineapple into 1-inch chunks (or rings for burgers)
- If canning, sterilize jars and keep warm
2. Make the Syrup
- In saucepan, combine:
- Sugar
- Vinegar
- Honey
- Red pepper flakes
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne
- Smoked paprika
- Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer 5 minutes
3. Candy the Pineapple
- Add pineapple to syrup
- Simmer 15-20 minutes until translucent and glossy
- Remove from heat, discard whole spices if using
4. Jar & Store
- Pack hot pineapple into jars
- Pour syrup over, leaving ½” headspace
- Seal and process in water bath 10 minutes (optional)
- OR cool and refrigerate up to 3 weeks
Pro Tips
Heat control – Remove seeds from peppers for milder version
Texture preference – Simmer less for firmer pineapple
Glaze hack – Reduce leftover syrup for meat glazes
Gift idea – Tie with ribbon and recipe card
Creative Ways to Serve
Burger topping – Especially good on pulled pork
Charcuterie boards – Pairs with sharp cheddar
Cocktail garnish – For spicy margaritas
Dessert upgrade – Over vanilla ice cream
Storage & Safety
Refrigerator – 3 weeks in airtight jar
Canning – Processed jars last 1 year
Freezing – Not recommended (texture changes)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Yes, but reduce sugar by ¼ cup and simmer time to 10 minutes
Q: How do I make this less spicy?
A: Omit cayenne and reduce red pepper flakes to 1 tsp
Q: Is this water bath canning safe?
A: Yes, due to high acid content from vinegar
Q: What’s the best pineapple to use?
A: Fresh, ripe pineapple – avoid overripe fruit
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Cowboy Candy is the ultimate sweet-heat condiment that transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences. The glossy, jewel-like pineapple chunks make stunning edible gifts, while the versatile syrup doubles as a marinade or cocktail mixer.
Print
Pineapple Cowboy Candy
- Total Time: 50 mins
Description
Sweet, spicy, and irresistibly delicious! Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a unique twist on the classic candied jalapeños, perfect for adding a flavorful kick to your dishes or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients
2 cups pineapple chunks
1 cup sliced jalapeños
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Instructions
In a large saucepan, combine granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, celery seed, garlic powder, and ground cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
Add pineapple chunks and sliced jalapeños to the saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pineapple and jalapeños to clean jars, packing them tightly.
Continue simmering the syrup for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Carefully pour the hot syrup over the pineapple and jalapeños in the jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth and seal with lids.
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator. Let the Pineapple Cowboy Candy sit for at least a week to develop the flavors before enjoying.
Serve as a topping for burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches, or enjoy as a sweet and spicy snack!
Prep Time: 30 minutes
