Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers
- Sweet and spicy – the perfect contrast in every bite.
- Super versatile – use on everything from tacos to cream cheese.
- Long shelf life – keeps for weeks in the fridge.
- Simple ingredients – just jalapeños, sugar, vinegar, and spices.
- Easy to make – no special equipment or canning skills needed.
- Addictive flavor – one bite and you’re hooked.

Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
How to Make Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers
- Prep the jalapeños: Wear gloves and slice jalapeños into uniform rings. Set aside.
- Make the brine: In a saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, garlic powder, ginger, and cayenne (if using). Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Simmer the peppers: Add jalapeño slices to the brine. Reduce heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Jar it up: Using a slotted spoon, transfer peppers into clean jars. Then pour the hot syrup over the top to fully cover them.
- Cool and store: Let jars cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate. Let them sit for at least 24 hours before eating for best flavor.

Tips & Variations for Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers
- Use gloves: Jalapeños can burn your skin. Gloves are your friend.
- Swap the pepper: Try banana peppers, serranos, or habaneros for a twist.
- Make it tangier: Add a splash of lemon juice or more vinegar.
- Add onion: Thin-sliced red onion adds sweetness and texture.
- Use the syrup: Drizzle over grilled meats, mix into mayo, or use in cocktails.
Note
Always taste your peppers before starting—heat levels vary wildly. If they’re too hot raw, they’ll still pack heat when pickled.
Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers
- On burgers or hot dogs
- Chopped into tuna or chicken salad
- Layered in grilled cheese sandwiches
- Over cream cheese with crackers
- Tossed into potato or pasta salads
- As a garnish for Bloody Marys
Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers Nutrition Information
Per tablespoon:
- Calories: 35
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugars: 8g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fiber: 0.5g
User Reviews/Comments
Ben R.: “I put these on everything. Sweet heat perfection. That syrup is liquid gold.”
Tamara C.: “Insanely easy and totally addictive. I give these as gifts now.”
Jules F.: “Added red onions and used honey instead of sugar—unreal. Everyone wants the recipe.”
FAQs About Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers
How long do cowboy candy peppers last? Stored in a clean jar in the fridge, they’ll last up to 3 months.
Can I water-bath can them? Yes! Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if you want to store at room temp.
Can I use other types of peppers? Absolutely. Try fresnos, banana peppers, or a mix for variety.
Is this safe for kids? Depends on their heat tolerance. They’re sweet, but still spicy.
What’s the best way to slice peppers? Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even, thin rings. Always wear gloves.
Can I reduce the sugar? You can, but it changes the texture and balance. Try cutting back 1/2 cup first.
What should I do with leftover syrup? It’s magic. Mix into BBQ sauce, glaze meats, stir into dressings, or drizzle on roasted veggies.

Conclusion
Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers is one of those recipes that sticks with you—not just because of the heat, but because of the impact it makes. Sweet, spicy, and outrageously flavorful, it’s the condiment you never knew you needed. It lifts every dish it touches, from greasy burgers to basic breakfast eggs. And the best part? It’s stupid simple to make.
This isn’t just a jar of pickles. It’s a kitchen power move. A way to make food exciting again. So go grab those jalapeños and some sugar—you’re about to become the person everyone begs for that “crazy good” pepper recipe.
For a deeper look into the broader world of pickled foods, check out this Wikipedia article on pickling. You’ll be amazed how many cultures have their own spicy-sweet secrets.
Now go get wild. Just don’t forget the gloves.
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Cowboy Candy Sweet Hot Pickled Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
-
- 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
-
- Prep the jalapeños: Wear gloves and slice jalapeños into uniform rings. Set aside.
- Make the brine: In a saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, garlic powder, ginger, and cayenne (if using). Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Simmer the peppers: Add jalapeño slices to the brine. Reduce heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Jar it up: Using a slotted spoon, transfer peppers into clean jars. Then pour the hot syrup over the top to fully cover them.
- Cool and store: Let jars cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate. Let them sit for at least 24 hours before eating for best flavor.
Notes
Always taste your peppers before starting—heat levels vary wildly. If they’re too hot raw, they’ll still pack heat when pickled.