Candied Jalapenos (Cowboy Candy)

written by The Recipe Exchange | June 15, 2026

Ingredients

1/2 pound jalapeno peppers about 10-12 average sized jalapenos
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
½ teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

First, slice the jalapeno peppers into ¼-inch round slices.

Stir together the sugar, vinegar and seasonings in a pan. Bring to a quick boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer until the sugar dissolves into a gooey syrup.

Add the jalapeno pepper slices and mix to evenly coat them with the syrup.

Simmer them about 4 minutes. They will darken a bit as they slightly cook and absorb some of the sugars.

Transfer the candied jalapeno peppers to cleaned jars, then fill the jars with the remaining syrup.

Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. You can eat them right away, but it is best to let the flavors develop at least 1 week in the refrigerator before eating.