Candied jalapeños, or Cowboy Candy, are a sweet-and-spicy favorite. If you prefer a simpler, no-canning method, you can make them quickly and safely store them in the fridge. These refrigerator candied jalapeños are perfect for burgers, sandwiches, cheese boards, tacos, or snacking straight from the jar.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mason jars or airtight containers
- Spoon or ladle
- Gloves (optional but recommended)
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Wash jalapeños thoroughly.
- Remove stems and slice into thin rings, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Optional: Remove seeds to reduce heat.
- Wear gloves to avoid irritation from the jalapeño oils.
Pro Tip: Thin slices help the peppers absorb the syrup quickly while keeping some crunch.
Step 2: Make the Sweet & Spicy Syrup
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, celery seed, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir over medium heat until sugar is fully dissolved.
- Optional: Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Cook the Jalapeños
- Add sliced jalapeños to the syrup.
- Stir to coat evenly.
- Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until peppers are slightly softened but still hold shape.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking to maintain texture and crunch.
Step 4: Transfer to Refrigerator Containers
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer peppers to clean mason jars or airtight containers.
- Pour hot syrup over the peppers to cover completely.
- Allow to cool to room temperature, then seal tightly.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Wait
- Store in the fridge for at least 24 hours before using to let flavors meld.
- For the best taste, wait 3–5 days.
- These refrigerator candied jalapeños will stay good for up to 3–4 months.
Pro Tip: Always use clean utensils when scooping peppers to prevent contamination.
Serving Ideas
- Sandwiches & Burgers: Adds sweet heat to any sandwich.
- Cheese Boards: Pair with soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese.
- Tacos & Quesadillas: Adds a bold flavor boost.
- Breakfast: Top scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos.
- Snacking: Straight from the jar for a quick, spicy-sweet bite.
Tips for Perfect Refrigerator Candied Jalapeños
- Uniform slices ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Adjust sweetness or heat: Add more sugar for sweeter peppers or extra red pepper flakes for more kick.
- Use fresh, firm peppers: Avoid wrinkled or soft jalapeños.
- Keep refrigerated: No-canning versions must stay chilled to stay safe.
- Flavor variations: Add garlic slices, mixed-color peppers, or smoked paprika for different twists.
Fun Variations
- Honey-sweetened: Replace half of the sugar with honey for a floral sweetness.
- Mixed Peppers: Add red or yellow sweet peppers for color and variety.
- Garlic lovers: Add thinly sliced garlic for depth.
- Smoky kick: Add smoked paprika for a slightly smoky flavor.
Why Choose No-Canning?
- Faster preparation: No boiling water bath required.
- Flexible storage: Keep in the fridge and use as needed.
- Safer for beginners: Eliminates the risk of improper canning.
- Perfect for small batches: Ideal for gifts or trial batches.
