Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant fusion of tart cranberries and spicy jalapeños, bringing a lively contrast of flavors to your palate. This sweet and spicy preserve is a delightful addition that can elevate everyday meals or serve as a standout condiment at gatherings.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this easy-to-make candy offers a bold yet balanced taste perfect for adventurous food lovers. Its unique texture and flavor profile make it a versatile companion for many dishes, especially during festive seasons.
- Combines sweetness and heat for a balanced and exciting flavor profile.
- Made with fresh cranberries and jalapeños, offering a burst of natural freshness.
- Versatile condiment perfect for pairing with cheeses, meats, or as a glaze.
- Vegan-friendly and simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: Provides a tart, juicy base with vibrant color and antioxidants for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the tartness while helping to create a syrupy texture.
- Water: Dissolves the sugar and helps gently cook the cranberries and jalapeños evenly.
- Sliced fresh jalapeños: Adds a spicy kick and crunchy texture, adjustable to preference for heat.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings acidity to brighten flavors and enhances the preserve’s shelf stability.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth complementing sweet and spicy notes.
- Onion powder: Provides mild umami undertones that round out the taste profile.
- Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness and acidity.
Instructions
- Dissolve Sugar in Water
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Combine granulated sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves. This step ensures a smooth syrup base for even cooking without graininess.
- Add Cranberries and Jalapeños
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Stir in fresh cranberries and sliced jalapeños, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the cranberries to burst and meld their flavors with the spiciness of jalapeños.
- Incorporate Vinegar and Spices
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Mix in apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. These ingredients add complexity, acidity, and depth, harmonizing the sweet and spicy components beautifully.
- Simmer to Thicken
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Continue simmering the mixture for 5 more minutes to reduce liquid and concentrate the flavors, achieving the ideal thick, jam-like consistency.
- Cool and Store
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Remove the pot from heat and let the candy cool to room temperature. Transfer into sterilized glass jars, seal tightly, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop and intensify.
- This cowboy candy can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 months, maintaining freshness and flavor.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity if you prefer a milder or more intense heat level.
- Ideal use includes pairing with grilled meats, cheese boards, or spreading on sandwiches.
Storage Tips
Keep the cowboy candy refrigerated in tightly sealed jars to preserve freshness. Properly stored, it lasts up to two months, allowing you to enjoy its spicy-sweet notes over time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy alongside your favorite cheeses, spread on toasted bread, or as a lively condiment for roasted meats and grilled dishes. It also makes an excellent addition to charcuterie boards or festive holiday meals.
- For uniform bite-sized pieces, slice jalapeños thinly and deseed if less heat is desired.
- Use fresh cranberries at peak season for best flavor; frozen can be used but may alter texture slightly.
- Letting the candy chill overnight improves flavor melding and thickens the preserve naturally.
FAQs
- Can I adjust the spiciness level?
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Yes, reduce or remove seeds from jalapeños for milder heat, or add more slices for an extra kick.
- How long does this cowboy candy keep?
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Stored properly in the refrigerator, it remains fresh and safe to eat for up to 2 months.
- Can I use frozen cranberries?
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Frozen cranberries can be used in a pinch, but fresh cranberries provide a better texture and flavor.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
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Absolutely! This recipe contains no animal products and is perfect for a vegan diet.
- What dishes pair well with cranberry jalapeño cowboy candy?
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Try it with grilled meats, cheese platters, sandwiches, or even as a topping for roasted vegetables.
- How should I store the cowboy candy?
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Store in sterilized glass jars in the fridge, tightly sealed to maintain quality and taste.
- Can I make this candy ahead of time?
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Yes, and allowing it to chill for at least 24 hours helps deepen the flavors beautifully.
Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan
- 1 glass jar for storage
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sliced fresh jalapeños
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Add cranberries and jalapeños, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until cranberries burst.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt; mix thoroughly.
- Simmer the mixture for an additional 5 minutes to concentrate flavors.
- Remove from heat; cool to room temperature before transferring to glass jars and sealing tightly.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to develop full flavor.
Notes
- Use as a condiment for meats or cheese toppings.
- Store refrigerated up to 2 months.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity to control heat level.
