If you adore a perfect balance of sweet and spicy in your condiments, the Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. This vibrant jelly marries the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple with the fiery kick of fresh jalapeños, creating a jam that livens up crackers, cheeses, and grilled dishes alike. Whether you’re new to preserving or a seasoned jelly maker, this recipe offers a straightforward, rewarding way to bottle sunshine and spice in every jar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe plays a crucial role in shaping the final flavor and texture, from the juicy tang of pineapple to the lively heat of jalapeños. They come together in a simple list, but each one is essential to create that perfect sweet-spicy harmony and the jelly’s beautiful consistency.
- 2 cups sliced jalapeños: Fresh and vibrant, jalapeños bring the essential heat and a hint of fruitiness.
- 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple with juice: Adds tropical sweetness and moisture to balance the peppers’ spice.
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar: Gives a bright acidity that enhances flavor depth and preserves the jelly.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps the jelly set with a glossy finish.
- 1 packet (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin: This is the natural thickener that ensures your jelly firms up perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to round out the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
How to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by combining your sliced jalapeños, crushed pineapple along with its juice, and apple cider vinegar in a large saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld as the fruit softens and the vinegar infuses the peppers.
Step 2: Add Pectin and Seasoning
Once simmering, stir in the powdered fruit pectin and salt. These ingredients are essential for achieving the perfect jelly texture and flavor balance, so mix thoroughly to avoid clumps.
Step 3: Boil and Sweeten
Bring the mix to a vigorous rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Quickly add all of the sugar, stirring until fully dissolved, then return to a strong boil and cook for 1–2 minutes. This is where the magic happens to get the consistency just right!
Step 4: Skim and Jar
Remove the pot from the heat and carefully skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Use a ladle to pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during sealing.
Step 5: Seal and Process
Wipe the jar rims clean, then seal with sterilized lids and bands. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary). This step ensures your jelly is safely preserved and ready for storage.
How to Serve Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe
Garnishes
This jelly shines when paired with simple garnishes that complement its bold flavor. Try a sprig of fresh cilantro or thin slices of jalapeño on top of cream cheese spreads to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Side Dishes
Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe is a dream accompaniment to cheese boards, grilled chicken, and smoked meats. The sweet and spicy notes elevate even the simplest sides like crusty bread, crackers, or a bowl of fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, use this jelly as a glaze for roasted vegetables or brush it over grilled pineapple slices for a layered smoky and sweet treat. It also works wonderfully as a filling for savory hand pies or dolloped over a cheese-stuffed burger.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once opened, keep your jelly refrigerated to preserve its fresh flavor and texture. It will hold up nicely for several weeks, so you can enjoy a little sweet and spice on demand.
Freezing
If you want to make a larger batch or save some for later, this jelly freezes well. Use freezer-safe containers leaving enough room for expansion to maintain its consistency and taste.
Reheating
When using frozen jelly, thaw it gently in the fridge overnight. For serving warm as a glaze or sauce, heat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave just until it reaches your desired temperature, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I adjust the heat level in this Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer less spice, remove some or all of the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing, or blend sweet peppers with your jalapeños to soften the heat while keeping great flavor.
Do I need to sterilize jars for this jelly?
Yes, sterilizing jars is important to prevent spoilage and ensure your jelly seals properly. Clean jars and lids thoroughly and boil them or use a dishwasher cycle right before filling.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple from a can?
You sure can! Just be sure to include some of the pineapple juice or add a little water to your fresh crushed pineapple to maintain the right liquid balance for setting the jelly.
Is this jelly vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for a wide range of diets and tastes.
How long can I store sealed jars?
Properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, your jelly can last up to one year. Once opened, it’s best enjoyed within a few weeks for optimum freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe is such a joyful celebration of flavors — sweet pineapple meets bold jalapeño heat in a lively, versatile jelly that brightens everything it touches. Whether you’re dolloping it on cream cheese or glazing grilled meats, this recipe invites you to savor the sweet-spicy magic all year round. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this little jar of sunshine makes every bite an adventure!
Print
Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus cooling and setting time)
- Yield: About 5 half-pint jars
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
Pineapple Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly is a sweet and spicy condiment made with fresh jalapeños, crushed pineapple, and apple cider vinegar. This vibrant jelly combines the fruity sweetness of pineapple with the bold heat of jalapeños, balanced perfectly by a touch of tart vinegar and sugar. Ideal for spreading on cream cheese with crackers, glazing meats, or adding a punch to grilled cheese sandwiches, this versatile jelly is a delightful addition to any pantry.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced jalapeños (about 15–20 peppers)
- 1 1/2 cups crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 packet (1.75 ounces) powdered fruit pectin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, add the sliced jalapeños, crushed pineapple along with its juice, and apple cider vinegar. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add pectin and salt: Stir in the powdered fruit pectin and salt thoroughly. Continue heating until the mixture comes to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
- Incorporate sugar and boil: Add the granulated sugar all at once, stirring to dissolve completely. Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil and keep boiling hard for 1–2 minutes, ensuring the jelly sets correctly.
- Remove foam: Remove the saucepan from the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface to keep the jelly clear and smooth.
- Jar the jelly: Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean to ensure a proper seal.
- Seal and process jars: Seal jars with lids and bands. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary, to preserve the jelly safely.
- Cool and store: Remove jars and allow them to cool undisturbed for 24 hours while the jelly sets and seals. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Notes
- This jelly offers a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, great served on cream cheese with crackers, in grilled cheese sandwiches, or as a glaze for meats.
- Adjust the spice level by removing some or all of the jalapeño seeds, or substitute half of the jalapeños with sweet peppers for a milder flavor.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage and ensure safe preservation.
