This pineapple cowboy candy is a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy treat that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a flavorful punch to your favorite recipes. With a delightful balance of tropical pineapple, warm spices, and a sugary coating, it’s a unique twist on traditional candied treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tropical flavor: Sweet pineapple with a hint of spice and tang.
- Versatile: Great as a snack, a topping for desserts, or paired with cheese and charcuterie boards.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Long shelf life: Keeps fresh in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced pineapple
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Slotted spoon
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Mixture:
In a large saucepan, combine the diced pineapple, sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt.
Cook the Pineapple:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy.
Cool and Separate:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied pineapple pieces to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess syrup to drip off.
Coat with Sugar:
Once the pineapple pieces are cool and slightly tacky, roll them in additional granulated sugar to coat evenly.
Set and Store:
Place the sugar-coated pineapple pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set completely. Store the finished candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Variations
- Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or increase the cayenne pepper for a bolder kick.
- Citrus Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest for a tangy layer of flavor.
- Mixed Fruit: Combine pineapple with diced mango or papaya for a tropical blend.
- Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the simmering mixture for an earthy undertone.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy as a standalone snack, a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or as a sweet-and-spicy garnish for cocktails.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the texture may become too soft after thawing.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Fresh Pineapple: Use ripe, fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture. Canned pineapple may not hold up as well during cooking.
- Consistent Size: Dice the pineapple into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Overcooking: Stir occasionally and monitor the mixture to prevent burning or caramelizing too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is preferred, but you can use canned if it’s well-drained. Keep in mind the texture may be softer.
2. How can I adjust the spice level?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor, or increase it for more heat.
3. What do I do with the leftover syrup?
The leftover syrup is a flavorful treasure! Use it as a drizzle for pancakes, cocktails, or desserts.
4. Can I skip the sugar coating?
Yes! The candied pineapple is delicious without the extra sugar coating, though it will be less sweet.
5. How do I prevent the pineapple from sticking to the rack?
Lightly grease the wire rack or line it with a non-stick baking mat for easy removal.
This pineapple cowboy candy is a delightful fusion of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this tropical treat and wow your friends and family with its unique taste!
