If you’re ready to add a bold, flavorful twist to your table, this Pineapple Cowboy Candy is calling your name! This unique treat combines juicy pineapple chunks with a sticky, sweet, and spicy syrup, creating a mouthwatering balance of flavors. Serve it as a topping for burgers, tacos, grilled meats, or enjoy it straight from the jar—it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Spicy Perfection – The natural sweetness of fresh pineapple meets a fiery kick from red pepper flakes for an unforgettable bite.
- Quick & Easy – Just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of simmering!
- Versatile – Serve it as a snack, condiment, or party appetizer that everyone will remember.
- Make Ahead Friendly – The flavor gets even better after 24 hours, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of ingredients to make this tropical twist on cowboy candy:
- 1 medium fresh pineapple – Peeled, cored, and diced into bite-sized chunks
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Creates the syrupy sweetness
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar – Adds tang and balances the sugar
- 1 ½ tsp red pepper flakes – Brings the heat (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ tsp ground ginger – Adds warm depth to the syrup
- Fresh mint leaves (optional) – For a fresh, vibrant finish
How to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Follow these simple steps to create your new favorite sweet-and-spicy treat:
1. Prepare the Pineapple
Peel, core, and dice the pineapple into small chunks. Set aside while you make the syrup.
2. Make the Spicy Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Simmer the Pineapple
Add the pineapple chunks to the syrup and stir to coat evenly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the pineapple to soak up the sweet heat.
4. Cool and Jar
Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool for about 30 minutes. If using mint, stir it in for a refreshing pop of flavor.
Transfer the pineapple and syrup to sterilized jars, seal tightly, and let cool to room temperature.
5. Rest and Enjoy
For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the sweet and spicy notes to meld together.
Serving Ideas
- Spoon over grilled burgers or pulled pork sandwiches
- Add to tacos, nachos, or quesadillas for a sweet-and-spicy twist
- Serve with cream cheese and crackers as an appetizer
- Use as a topping for grilled chicken or seafood
- Eat straight from the jar—we won’t judge!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight, sterilized jars for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe jars for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Pro Tip: The longer it rests, the deeper and more complex the flavor becomes!
Tips for the Best Pineapple Cowboy Candy
- Adjust the Heat – Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
- Don’t Overcook the Pineapple – Simmering too long can make it mushy.
- Sterilize Your Jars – Boil jars for 10 minutes to extend shelf life.
- Experiment with Flavors – Add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of smoked paprika for a twist.
Pineapple Cowboy Candy Recipe
Author: Sally Mitchell
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes | Yield: 3 cups
Ingredients:
- 1 medium fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- Dice pineapple into small chunks.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and ginger. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add pineapple; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cool for 30 minutes. Stir in mint if using.
- Transfer to sterilized jars and refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months.
Your Pineapple Cowboy Candy is now ready to add a tropical kick to any meal. Sweet, spicy, and completely addictive—one taste, and you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge at all times!