Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant, sweet-spicy preserve that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the fiery kick of jalapeños. Perfect as a unique condiment or a flavorful addition to cheese boards, sandwiches, and grilled dishes, this recipe balances heat and sweetness with aromatic spices for a bold taste experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus 24 hours refrigeration
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment, Preserve
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Preserve Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water. Stir occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture starts to simmer.
- Add Cranberries and Jalapeños: Add 2 cups fresh cranberries and 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring gently to combine the ingredients well.
- Simmer Cranberries: Reduce heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the cranberries will burst, releasing their juices and thickening the mixture.
- Add Vinegar and Spices: Stir in 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the flavors.
- Final Simmer: Continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together and the preserve thicken further.
- Cool and Jar: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cowboy candy cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it into sterilized jars for storage.
- Refrigerate to Develop Flavors: Refrigerate the jars for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting period enhances the depth of flavor and allows the spicy and sweet notes to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cranberries for best flavor and texture.
- Slicing jalapeños thinly distributes heat evenly; adjust amount based on your heat preference.
- Ensure jars are sterilized before storing preserves to extend shelf life.
- Refrigerate after opening and consume within 2-3 weeks.
- This cowboy candy pairs wonderfully with cream cheese, grilled meats, and charcuterie boards.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cranberry jalapeño preserve, cowboy candy, spicy cranberry jam, homemade jalapeño relish, sweet and spicy condiment
