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Candied Jalapenos Recipe – Sweet & Spicy Perfection

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Candied jalapenos are sweet and spicy jalapeno pepper slices simmered in a sugar and vinegar syrup, also known as cowboy candy. This easy homemade condiment adds bold flavor to burgers, tacos, cream cheese appetizers, and BBQ dishes.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 2 weeks resting time)
  • Yield: 2 pint jars 1x
  • Category: Condiment

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh jalapenos, sliced into 1/8 to 1/4-inch rings
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wear gloves, wash and dry the jalapenos, then slice them evenly into rings and discard stems.
  2. In a large pot, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, turmeric, celery seed, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar fully dissolves.
  3. Add the sliced jalapenos to the boiling syrup, reduce heat, and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer jalapeno slices into sterilized jars.
  5. Continue simmering the remaining syrup for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Pour the hot syrup over the jalapenos in the jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
  7. Seal jars and allow to cool before refrigerating, or process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for long-term storage.
  8. Let candied jalapenos rest for at least 2 weeks before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Remove seeds and membranes for milder heat.
  • Do not reduce vinegar quantity, as it ensures safe preservation.
  • Syrup thickens further as it cools, so avoid over-reducing.
  • Refrigerated candied jalapenos last up to 3 months.
  • Properly canned jars can last up to 12 months in a cool, dark pantry.

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