Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers Recipe

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Sweet, spicy, and seriously addictive—Cowboy Candy is the ultimate condiment for those who love a bold kick of flavor. These sweet hot pickled peppers bring together the heat of jalapeños and other colorful chilies with a sticky, sugary brine that perfectly balances the spice. Whether you’re layering it on a burger, tossing it into a salad, or just sneaking a few bites straight from the jar, it hits that sweet-and-spicy craving in all the right ways.

This Southern classic has earned its cult following for a reason. It’s incredibly versatile and surprisingly easy to make. You can use jalapeños alone or mix in banana peppers and red chilies for extra color and flavor. Ideal for BBQs, charcuterie boards, or gifting in mason jars—Cowboy Candy is a pantry essential you’ll want to keep stocked.

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Ingredients for this Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers Recipe

• 1 ½ pounds fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced into rings (you can mix in other peppers for variety)
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon celery seed
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne (optional for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for texture and appearance)

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Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Wash your peppers thoroughly and slice them into uniform rings, about 1/4-inch thick. If you prefer less heat, remove some of the seeds as you slice. Mix and match jalapeños with red chilies, banana peppers, or serranos for a vibrant and flavorful batch.

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Step 2: Make the Sweet Brine

In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, turmeric, celery seed, mustard seeds, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), and salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to bring out all those sweet, tangy, and aromatic notes.

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Step 3: Add the Peppers to the Brine

Carefully add the sliced peppers into the simmering brine. Stir gently and continue cooking for 4–5 minutes. The peppers will begin to soften and slightly change color—this means they’re absorbing all the delicious flavors.

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Step 4: Pack the Jars

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the peppers into sterilized mason jars, packing them in tightly but leaving some space at the top. Then, pour the hot brine over the peppers, ensuring they are fully submerged. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds to each jar if you like the look and added crunch.

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Step 5: Seal and Process (Optional)

For long-term storage, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is optional if you plan to keep the peppers in the fridge and use them within a few weeks. Let the jars cool completely before storing.

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Step 6: Let Them Marinate

Patience pays off! For the best flavor, let your Cowboy Candy sit for at least 24 hours in the fridge before digging in. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor develops—after a week, it’s pure magic.

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Storage Instructions

Once your Cowboy Candy is jarred and cooled, you’ve got a couple of storage options. If you processed the jars in a water bath, they can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year. Make sure the lids have sealed properly—if they pop when pressed, they need refrigeration.

If you skipped the canning process, just pop the jars in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 months. Always use a clean utensil when scooping to keep them from spoiling prematurely.

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Estimated Nutrition (per 1 tablespoon serving)

• Calories: 35
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 0g

Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly based on the types and amounts of peppers and added seeds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cowboy Candy taste like?

It’s the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy. The sugar tempers the heat of the peppers, creating an irresistible balance.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Absolutely! While jalapeños are classic, mixing in banana peppers, Fresno chilies, or serranos adds color and layers of flavor.

How spicy is Cowboy Candy?

It depends on the peppers and whether you keep the seeds. Jalapeños give it a moderate kick, but you can adjust heat by using milder or hotter varieties.

Do I have to can the jars?

Nope. If you plan to eat them within a couple of months, just store them in the fridge. Canning is great for longer shelf life.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can, but the sweetness is what makes Cowboy Candy so unique. Reducing sugar will make it more of a spicy pickle and less of a candied pepper.

How long should I wait before eating?

Try to wait at least 24 hours, but flavor improves dramatically after 1 week.

What can I serve Cowboy Candy with?

It’s fantastic on burgers, tacos, sandwiches, salads, cheese boards, or even mixed into cream cheese for a spicy-sweet spread.

Can I reuse the leftover brine?

Yes! It’s great for marinades, dressings, or even a spicy-sweet cocktail addition. Just store it in the fridge.

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