Description

Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant and zesty preserve that balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the heat of jalapeño peppers and warming spices. This versatile condiment is perfect for adding a punch of flavor to grilled meats, cheeses, or sandwiches. Made by simmering cranberries and jalapeños in a spiced sweet and tangy syrup, it boasts a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and aromatic notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits and Vegetables

2 cups fresh cranberries
2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (seeds removed for less heat)

Sweeteners and Liquids

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water

Spices and Seasonings

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Rinse Cranberries: Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any that are bruised or damaged. Set aside to prepare for cooking.
Prepare Jalapeños: Slice the jalapeño peppers thinly. For a milder heat level, remove the seeds and white membrane inside the peppers carefully.
Make Syrup Base: In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to simmer.
Add Fruits: Once the syrup is simmering, add the cranberries and the sliced jalapeños to the saucepan, preparing them to soften and meld with the syrup.
Incorporate Spices: Stir in the ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Simmer Mixture: Continue to simmer the ingredients for approximately 10-15 minutes. Cook until the cranberries begin to burst and the liquid thickens slightly into a jam-like consistency.
Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes, letting flavors meld and the temperature drop before jarring.
Jar the Cowboy Candy: Pour the cooled mixture into sterilized glass jars, ensuring the cranberries and jalapeño slices are evenly distributed in each jar to maintain consistency in flavor and texture.
Seal the Jars: Let the jars cool to room temperature before sealing them tightly with lids to preserve freshness.
Refrigerate for Flavor Development: For best flavor, refrigerate the jars for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to mature and the candy to set properly.

Notes

Removing jalapeño seeds reduces heat but you can adjust to your spice preference by leaving some or all seeds.
Ensure jars are sterilized properly to extend shelf life when refrigerated.
This cowboy candy pairs well with cream cheese, grilled meats, or as a topping for crackers.
Store unopened jars in refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness.
Use fresh cranberries during the fall and winter months when they are at peak ripeness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Condiments
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry jalapeño jam, cowboy candy, spicy cranberry preserve, sweet and spicy condiment, holiday relish