Are you tired of the same old jelly flavors? Looking for something with a little more kick? Look no further than the Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly recipe. This unique blend of sweet and spicy is sure to be a hit with your taste buds.
To make this delicious jelly, you’ll need some cubed pineapple, Cowboy Candy (candied jalapeños), lemon juice, butter, crushed red pepper flakes, and Sure-Jel fruit pectin. Simply pulse the pineapple in a food processor until finely chopped, then add it to a large stockpot with the other ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring often, and cook for one minute before removing from heat.
This recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat with their sweet. The combination of pineapple and cowboy candy creates a unique flavor that is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be stored for later use. Give this recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious it can be!
Ingredients
- 1 fresh pineapple, trimmed and cut into cubes
- 1 small 4-oz jar Cowboy Candy
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons butter (to reduce foaming)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 package Sure-Jel fruit pectin
- 6 cups sugar
Directions
1. Place cubed pineapple in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped (but not pureed).
2. Transfer the chopped pineapple to a large stockpot. You should have approximately 4 cups of chopped pineapple.
3. Add Cowboy Candy, lemon juice, butter, crushed red pepper flakes, and Sure-Jel fruit pectin to the stockpot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring often.
5. Once boiling, add the sugar all at once, stir, and return to a rolling boil (one that doesn’t stop while stirring). Boil hard for 1 minute.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and ladle the jelly into prepared mason jars.
7. Cover the jars with rings and lids, then process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
8. Remove the jars from the boiling water bath and let them sit on your kitchen countertop for 24 hours. Jars are sealed when the button in the middle of the lid is fully depressed.
9. As the jelly cools, slightly shake the jars from time to time to evenly distribute the pineapple and pepper pieces throughout the jelly.
10. Store the sealed jars on the pantry shelf for up to one year. Refrigerate any opened jars.
Yield: 7 – 8-oz jars
Serving Suggestions
Pairings
Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly is a versatile condiment that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Spread it on crackers or toasted bread for a quick and easy appetizer.
- Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork, or fish.
- Pair it with cream cheese or goat cheese for a delicious and easy dip.
- Serve it alongside charcuterie boards or cheese plates for a sweet and spicy addition.
- Use it as a topping for burgers or sandwiches for a unique flavor twist.
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness and quality of your Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly, follow these storage tips:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks.
- If you plan on storing your jelly for longer periods of time, consider freezing it in an airtight container.
- Before consuming, always check for signs of spoilage such as mold, discoloration, or an off smell.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly for weeks to come.
Safety Tips
When it comes to making Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly, it’s important to take some safety precautions to avoid any potential hazards. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Handling Hot Peppers
Jalapeños are the main ingredient in Cowboy Candy, and they can be quite spicy. It’s important to wear gloves when handling them to avoid any skin irritation or burning sensations. If you don’t have gloves, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the peppers.
Ensuring Proper Seal
When canning the Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly, it’s important to ensure that the jars are properly sealed. This will prevent any bacteria from growing and spoiling the jelly. To ensure a proper seal, follow these steps:
- Use new lids and jars for each batch of jelly.
- Sterilize the jars and lids before use by boiling them in water for at least 10 minutes.
- Fill the jars with hot jelly, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any jelly residue.
- Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for the recommended amount of time.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly is not only delicious but also safe to consume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the simplest way to make pineapple cowboy candy pepper jelly?
The simplest way to make pineapple cowboy candy pepper jelly is to use canned pineapple and canned cowboy candy. You can also use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Combine the pineapple, cowboy candy, lemon juice, butter, crushed red pepper flakes, and Sure-Jel fruit pectin in a large stockpot. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir often. Once it has reached a rolling boil, let it boil for one minute. Remove from the heat and skim off any foam. Pour the hot mixture into sterilized jars and seal.
How do I incorporate canned pineapple into pepper jelly?
To incorporate canned pineapple into pepper jelly, drain the pineapple and chop it into small pieces. Combine the pineapple with the other ingredients in your recipe and follow the instructions for making the pepper jelly.
What are some creative uses for pineapple pepper jelly?
Pineapple pepper jelly can be used as a glaze for meats, a topping for cream cheese or crackers, or as a condiment for sandwiches. You can also use it as a dip for chicken nuggets or egg rolls.
Can I substitute fresh jalapeños with frozen ones in pepper jelly recipes?
Yes, you can substitute fresh jalapeños with frozen ones in pepper jelly recipes. Just make sure to thaw the jalapeños before using them.
What’s the difference between jalapeño jelly and pepper jelly?
Jalapeño jelly is made with only jalapeños, while pepper jelly can be made with a variety of peppers, including jalapeños. Pepper jelly can also include other ingredients, such as fruit or herbs.
How long should I wait for my pepper jelly to set before using?
You should wait at least 24 hours for your pepper jelly to set before using it. It may take up to 48 hours for the jelly to fully set.
