Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly: A Sweet and Spicy Delight

Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly is a delicious combination of sweet and spicy flavors. This delectable jelly combines pineapple’s tropical sweetness with the fiery heat of cowboy candy peppers, resulting in a mouthwatering condiment ideal for adding a flavorful kick to your favorite dishes. Whether spread on crackers, served with cheese, or used as a glaze for meats, this versatile jelly will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pineapple, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cowboy candy peppers (or other sweet and hot peppers), seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 packet (3 ounces) liquid pectin
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pineapple and Peppers:
  • Finely chop the pineapple and cowboy candy peppers, removing the seeds from the peppers if desired.
  1. Cook the Jelly Base:
  • In a large saucepan, combine the chopped pineapple, chopped peppers, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
  1. Bring to a Boil:
  • Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently.
  1. Add the Pectin:
  • Once the mixture reaches a boil, add the liquid pectin and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to ensure the pectin is fully dissolved.
  1. Simmer:
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the jelly simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  1. Test for Set:
  • To test if the jelly is set, place a small amount on a chilled plate and let it cool for a few seconds. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes and test again.
  1. Can the Jelly:
  • Once the jelly has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace.
  1. Seal the Jars:
  • Wipe the jar rims clean, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands fingertip-tight.
  1. Process the Jars:
  • Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal them properly.
  1. Cool and Store:
    • Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, check the seals and store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Tips:

  • Adjust the amount of sugar and peppers to suit your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the sugar for a sweeter or less sweet jelly, and add more or fewer peppers for a milder or spicier version.
  • For a smoother jelly, you can strain out the pineapple and pepper solids before canning the jelly.
  • Serve this Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly with crackers and cream cheese for a delicious appetizer, or use it as a glaze for grilled meats or seafood.

Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly is a delicious combination of sweet pineapple and spicy cowboy candy peppers, resulting in a versatile and flavorful condiment suitable for any occasion. This jelly, whether spread on crackers, served with cheese, or used as a glaze for meats, gives your favorite dishes a deliciously sweet and spicy kick. Gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the irresistible flavors of Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly!