Cowboy candy is a sweet-spicy homemade treat made from candied jalapeños. Thinly sliced jalapeños are simmered in a syrup of sugar, vinegar, and spices like garlic, turmeric, and celery seed to create a balance of heat and sweetness. The process mellows the jalapeños’ spice while preserving their bold flavor, resulting in a versatile condiment.
It’s a fantastic appetizer when served atop crackers with a smear of cream cheese, offering a creamy, sweet, and spicy bite. Cowboy candy also shines as a topping, adding a zesty kick to pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or even nachos. Some use it in salads, on charcuterie boards, or stirred into dishes like baked beans for extra depth.
Cowboy candy is a sweet-spicy homemade treat made from candied jalapeños. Thinly sliced jalapeños are simmered in a syrup of sugar, vinegar, and spices like garlic, turmeric, and celery seed to create a balance of heat and sweetness. The process mellows the jalapeños’ spice while preserving their bold flavor, resulting in a versatile condiment.
It’s a fantastic appetizer when served atop crackers with a smear of cream cheese, offering a creamy, sweet, and spicy bite. Cowboy candy also shines as a topping, adding a zesty kick to pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or even nachos. Some use it in salads, on charcuterie boards, or stirred into dishes like baked beans for extra depth.