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Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy: Sweet and Spicy Homemade Condiment

Close-up of glistening, deep red cranberry jalapeño cowboy candy pieces packed tightly in a small, clear glass bowl.
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Make this unique Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy to create a bold, festive condiment. This recipe balances the tartness of cranberries with the heat of candied jalapeños, perfect for appetizers or gifting.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced into rings
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the jalapeños: Wear gloves when handling. Slice the jalapeño peppers into rings, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. Place the sliced peppers in a large, non-reactive pot.
  2. Combine the syrup ingredients: Add the chopped cranberries, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to the pot with the jalapeños.
  3. Cook the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The syrup will thicken, and the peppers and cranberries will become glossy and tender.
  5. Test for doneness: The candy is ready when the syrup coats the back of a spoon and the peppers are translucent.
  6. Jar the candy: Carefully ladle the hot cranberry jalapeño cowboy candy mixture into clean, sterilized jars, ensuring the peppers and cranberries are submerged in the syrup. Leave 1/2 inch of headspace.
  7. Process for storage (Optional Water Bath): Wipe the rims clean, apply lids and bands. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal for shelf stability. If you are not canning, cool completely and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Wear gloves when slicing jalapeños to protect your skin from capsaicin oils.
  • Serve this sweet and spicy appetizer over a block of cream cheese with crackers for a holiday charcuterie board topper.
  • This makes an excellent homemade gift idea spice for friends and family during the holiday season.
  • If you skip the water bath canning, this condiment keeps well in the refrigerator for several weeks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/cranberry-jalapeno-cowboy-candy-recipe/