This super delicious Pineapple Cowboy Candy comes together in about 30 minutes and is all in one pot for a quick and easy treat that your family will love! Switch up the ingredients to suit your taste, or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ recipe to get rid of any leftover fruit lying around. You can even enjoy it as a sweet topping on grilled meats, burgers, or simply on a slice of toast for a delightful twist!
The Sweet Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups canned pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp turmeric (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, garlic powder, ground ginger, turmeric, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch as it starts to bubble and thicken, a sign it’s transforming into something amazing!
Simmer the pineapple: Once the mixture is boiling, add the drained pineapple chunks. Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook away for about 15-20 minutes. You want the syrup to thicken into a luscious glaze that will coat those pineapples beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes a little viscous, and the pineapples start to look glassy and succulent. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally, you don’t want it sticking to the bottom!
Jar and store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Spoon the cooled candy into sterilized jars, glass jars work wonderfully here and just like that, you’ve made your very own homemade Pineapple Cowboy Candy! Allow it to cool completely before sealing the jars and refrigerating them. For the best flavor, let it sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours before enjoying. Talk about a flavor bomb that gets better with time!
Why I Love This Recipe
Honestly? This is my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests or treat my family to something fun and different. I’m a real sucker for sweet and spicy, and Pineapple Cowboy Candy perfectly delivers! The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up and FLEXIBLE, feel free to add in some chili powder for a kick or even mix in few jalapeño slices for a truly southern twist. It’s comfort food but like, upgraded because it can spice up a boring weeknight meal or be the perfect addition to a summer BBQ.
I remember the first time I made this; I thought, “What’s with the garlic, though?” But when it all comes together, you realize that each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating tons of flavor. You’re gonna want to make this for ALL your summer get-togethers!
Serving & Storage Tips
How to Serve This Pineapple Cowboy Candy
This Pineapple Cowboy Candy is ridiculously versatile! You can serve it on grilled chicken or even on top of fish tacos for a delightful twist. Or, try it on a charcuterie board next to some creamy cheeses, it’s a match made in heaven! I absolutely love spreading it on warm toast or muffins for a sweet breakfast treat. Just think: wow, your brunch guests will be raving!
Storage
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for about 2-3 weeks. The flavors just get more intense over time, so embrace it!
Reheating Instructions
If you prefer your candy warm, just pop it into the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or reheat gently on the stovetop. You want it warm, but not bubbling away, so keep an eye on it!
Freezer Friendly
Yes! You can freeze Pineapple Cowboy Candy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as things expand in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying side or snack.
One Pot
Yes, you read that right! It’s all made in just one pot, which means minimal cleanup for you. Just pop your saucepan in the dishwasher once you’re done, and you’re golden!
Customizable
Don’t have pineapple? You can use any fruit you want peaches, mangoes, or even strawberries if you’re feeling adventurous! This is a great way to use whatever you have lying around in that fridge.
Crowd-Pleaser
Loaded with tons of flavor and that perfect combo of sweet and spicy, this Pineapple Cowboy Candy will definitely wow your family and friends. Seriously, everyone will be asking you for the recipe!
Make-Ahead Friendly
It’s perfect for meal prep! Make a batch on the weekend, and you can have delightful toppings for your meals throughout the week.
If You Loved This Recipe…
…be sure to check out my Easy Ragtag Candies, my Jelly Nougat Candy Recipe, or my Cinnamon Glass Candy for more family-friendly favorites!
There you have it, friends! Pineapple Cowboy Candy is not just a candy; it’s a celebration of sweet and spicy goodness that will make your taste buds dance. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Happy cooking! Follow us on Pinterest for daily baking inspiration that brings warmth to your table!
Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, garlic powder, ground ginger, turmeric, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once the mixture is boiling, add the drained pineapple chunks. Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Spoon the cooled candy into sterilized jars. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the jars and refrigerating.