Easy Pineapple Cowboy Candy: Sweet & Spicy Recipe!

You know, sometimes the best recipes are the ones that surprise you. Like the time my son, Liam, came home from a friend’s house raving about this sweet and spicy treat called Pineapple Cowboy Candy. I’d never heard of such a thing, but he was so insistent that I give it a try.

I wasn’t sure what to expect. Spicy fruit? It sounded a little strange. But Liam’s enthusiasm was contagious, and I love a good kitchen challenge. I started experimenting, tweaking recipes until I landed on a version that had just the right balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.

The first batch of my Pineapple Cowboy Candy disappeared in minutes. Everyone loved the unexpected kick, and it quickly became a requested treat. I love how this Pineapple Cowboy Candy has brought something new and exciting to our table. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks conversation and brings smiles, and that’s what cooking is all about for me.

What I love most about this Pineapple Cowboy Candy is how easy it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create something truly special. It’s perfect for snacking, adding to charcuterie boards, or even as a unique topping for grilled meats. If you are in a recipe mood, you could even try Magic Candy Recipe!

I’m so excited to share this Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe with you. I hope it becomes a family favorite in your home too.

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this addictive Pineapple Cowboy Candy. Trust me, this ingredient list keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor!

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds: For the best Pineapple Cowboy Candy, I recommend using a ripe, juicy pineapple. It makes all the difference in the world!
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Regular white sugar works perfectly.
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
• ¼ cup water: Just plain water will do.
• 1-2 jalapenos, thinly sliced (with seeds for extra heat): Adjust the amount of jalapenos to your spice preference. I usually use two for a good kick, but you might start with one if you are unsure.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a lovely smoky depth.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat): If you like it really spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

You’ll find everything for this Pineapple Cowboy Candy at your regular grocery store, making it a convenient treat to make any time. My family prefers when I use fresh pineapple in our Pineapple Cowboy Candy, but you can also use canned pineapple rings for a quicker version, just make sure they are well-drained.

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of irresistible Pineapple Cowboy Candy. Don’t worry if your Pineapple Cowboy Candy looks a little different from mine the first time around, it all comes down to how you dehydrate!

1. Prepare the pineapple: Lay the pineapple slices on paper towels and pat them dry. This helps remove excess moisture so they candy up nicely. This Pineapple Cowboy Candy typically takes me about 4-6 hours in the dehydrator.
2. Make the syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Add the jalapenos and spices: Stir in the sliced jalapenos, salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Simmer the pineapple: Add the pineapple slices to the saucepan in a single layer. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they become translucent and slightly softened. Your kitchen will smell amazing while this Pineapple Cowboy Candy cooks!
5. Arrange on dehydrator trays: Remove the pineapple slices from the syrup and arrange them in a single layer on dehydrator trays. Be sure to save the syrup!
6. Dehydrate: Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 4-6 hours, or until the pineapple is candied and slightly chewy. The timing will depend on your dehydrator, so check them periodically. Here’s where I used to mess up my Pineapple Cowboy Candy – now I always remember to check them every hour after the fourth hour!
7. Cool and store: Let the Pineapple Cowboy Candy cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They will keep for several weeks. While your Pineapple Cowboy Candy is dehydrating, you’ll have time to clean up and plan how you want to serve them!

Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy your delicious Pineapple Cowboy Candy. Everyone reaches for seconds when this Pineapple Cowboy Candy comes out with cheese and crackers!

• Snack Attack: Serve it as a snack straight out of the jar. The sweet and spicy combination is incredibly addictive.
• Charcuterie Board Addition: Add Pineapple Cowboy Candy to your next charcuterie board for a unique twist. It pairs wonderfully with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and salty prosciutto.
• Grilled Meat Topping: Chop it up and use it as a topping for grilled chicken, pork, or fish. The sweet and spicy flavor complements the smoky char of the grill.
• Taco Tuesday Upgrade: Add it to your tacos for an unexpected burst of flavor. It’s especially good with pulled pork or grilled shrimp tacos.
• Pizza Topping: Get adventurous and add Pineapple Cowboy Candy to your homemade pizza. It pairs well with ham, bacon, and mozzarella cheese.
• Gift Giving: Package it in cute jars and give it as a homemade gift. Friends and family will love this unique and delicious treat.
• Cocktail Garnish: Use a slice of Pineapple Cowboy Candy as a garnish for cocktails like margaritas or mojitos. It adds a fun and flavorful touch.

This Pineapple Cowboy Candy is perfect for those nights when you want something really satisfying! My family loves it best when it’s served as a snack during movie night, but it’s also great for parties and gatherings. I also like to chop it up and add it to salads for a sweet and spicy crunch. You can even try adding some peanut butter for a truly interesting taste!

Here are some common questions I get about making Pineapple Cowboy Candy. I’ve added my own experiences too!

Can I make this Pineapple Cowboy Candy ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Pineapple Cowboy Candy ahead of time. In fact, it’s often better after it has had a chance to sit for a day or two, as the flavors meld together even more. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute with white vinegar or rice vinegar. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well.

How do I store leftover Pineapple Cowboy Candy?
Store leftover Pineapple Cowboy Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep for several weeks.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple rings, but make sure they are well-drained. Fresh pineapple tends to have a better texture and flavor, but canned works in a pinch. Some people have asked about rinsing canned pineapple on the Facebook group.

How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness of the Pineapple Cowboy Candy depends on the amount of jalapenos you use and whether you include the seeds. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with one jalapeno and remove the seeds. You can always add more spice later if you want.

Can I use a different type of pepper?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of peppers. Serrano peppers, habaneros, or even a pinch of chili flakes can be used to add heat. Each pepper will give a slightly different flavor profile.

What if my Pineapple Cowboy Candy is too sticky?
If your Pineapple Cowboy Candy is too sticky, it may not have been dehydrated long enough. Put it back in the dehydrator for another hour or two, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Is there a way to make it without a dehydrator?
Yes, you can make it in the oven on the lowest setting. Arrange the pineapple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for several hours, until they are candied and slightly chewy. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Here’s some more ideas and info from Hawk Point HomeStead about Pineapple Cowboy Candy Recipe.

Can I make it without sugar?

While it’s not traditionally how Pineapple Cowboy Candy is made, you can experiment with sugar alternatives like honey or maple syrup. However, keep in mind that this might affect the final texture and flavor. You may want to adjust the liquid ratio as well.

Here’s some anecdotal insight about people experimenting with pineapple and jalapeno cowboy candy recipe.

This Pineapple Cowboy Candy has definitely earned its place in my recipe collection. It’s a unique, delicious, and surprisingly versatile treat that my family absolutely loves. It’s perfect for snacking, parties, or adding a little zing to your favorite dishes. I can’t wait for you to try it!

My Pineapple Cowboy Candy Tips:

1. Don’t skip the drying step: Patting the pineapple slices dry before candying them is crucial for getting the right texture.
2. Adjust the spice to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different types and amounts of peppers to find your perfect level of heat.
3. Save the syrup: The leftover syrup is great for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, or even cocktails.

Here’s some variations I’ve tried with success:

• Coconut Cowboy Candy: Add shredded coconut to the syrup for a tropical twist.
• Lime Cowboy Candy: Squeeze fresh lime juice into the syrup for a tangy kick.
• Ginger Cowboy Candy: Add grated ginger to the syrup for a warm and spicy flavor.

My son, Liam, loves the extra spicy version with cayenne pepper, while my daughter prefers the one with coconut. I encourage you to experiment and find your own favorite variation.

I hope your family loves this Pineapple Cowboy Candy as much as mine does. It’s a fun and easy recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Remember, the best meals are the ones that bring people together. I have no doubt that this Pineapple Cowboy Candy will make your time at the table special.