If you love sweet and spicy flavors, then you’re in for a treat! Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a delightful twist on the classic candied jalapeños—only better! It features caramelized pineapple chunks coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that will tantalize your taste buds.
Perfect as a snack, topping, or side dish, this easy Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe is ready in just 15 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it on burgers, with cheese boards, or straight from the jar, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
Perfect Balance of Sweet & Spicy – A bold combination of pineapple, honey, brown sugar, and chili flakes.
Versatile – Serve it on tacos, burgers, salads, charcuterie boards, or eat it as a snack!
Great for Gifting – Make a big batch and store in jars for delicious homemade gifts.
Naturally Gluten-Free – No artificial preservatives or additives!
Ingredients for Pineapple Cowboy Candy
To make this delicious, sticky-sweet treat, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- ½ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (for tangy balance)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for richness)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (adds warmth)
- ¼ tsp salt (enhances flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for depth)
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Want more heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prefer a tropical twist? Swap pineapple for mango or peaches.
- Sugar-free option? Use a monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar.
How to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy – Step by Step
Step1: Melt the Butter & Prep the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter.
- Add honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili flakes, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
Step2: Cook the Pineapple
- Once the mixture starts bubbling, add the pineapple chunks and stir to coat them evenly.
- Let the pineapple cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces become caramelized and slightly sticky.
Step3: Cool & Serve
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm or let it set for a thicker, stickier texture.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Pineapple Cowboy Candy
For extra spice, add 1 tsp hot sauce or a sliced fresh chili.
Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
Make ahead: Store in a jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. The flavors intensify over time!
For a smoky twist, grill the pineapple before adding it to the sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Wondering how to use this sweet and spicy delight? Here are the best ways to enjoy it:
Toppings – Add to burgers, sandwiches, tacos, hot dogs, or grilled cheese.
Cheese Board – Pair with cheddar, brie, or goat cheese for a gourmet snack.
Meat Pairings – Serve with grilled chicken, pork chops, ribs, or steak.
Pizza Upgrade – Try it on a Hawaiian pizza for extra zing!
Dessert Twist – Serve over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a unique treat.
Nutritional Information for Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional value per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
Low in fat but high in flavor!
Storage & Leftovers – How to Keep It Fresh
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container or glass jar for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Place cooled Pineapple Cowboy Candy in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs – Answering Your Common Questions
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes! Drain the juice first to prevent excess liquid in the caramelization process.
How spicy is Pineapple Cowboy Candy?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili flakes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors get even better after a day or two in the fridge.
What’s the best way to store it?
Keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for later use.
Related Recipes – More Sweet & Spicy Treats
If you love Pineapple Cowboy Candy, try these delicious recipes:
-
Creamy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta – Easy Dinner
-
Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad – Best Easy Recipe
Conclusion
Now you know how to make the best homemade Pineapple Cowboy Candy!
This sweet, sticky, and spicy treat is incredibly versatile—use it on burgers, tacos, or enjoy it straight from the jar. Plus, it’s super easy to make in just 15 minutes!
Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments! How do you like to eat your Pineapple Cowboy Candy?
📌 Don’t forget to save & share! Pin this recipe on Pinterest !
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Homemade Pineapple Cowboy Candy – Sweet Snack Recipe
Description
If you love sweet and spicy flavors, then you’re in for a treat! Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a delightful twist on the classic candied jalapeños—only better! It features caramelized pineapple chunks coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that will tantalize your taste buds.
Perfect as a snack, topping, or side dish, this easy Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe is ready in just 15 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it on burgers, with cheese boards, or straight from the jar, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- ½ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (for tangy balance)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for richness)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (adds warmth)
- ¼ tsp salt (enhances flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for depth)
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Want more heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prefer a tropical twist? Swap pineapple for mango or peaches.
- Sugar-free option? Use a monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar.
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter & Prep the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter.
- Add honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili flakes, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
Step 2: Cook the Pineapple
- Once the mixture starts bubbling, add the pineapple chunks and stir to coat them evenly.
- Let the pineapple cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces become caramelized and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Cool & Serve
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm or let it set for a thicker, stickier texture.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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For extra spice, add 1 tsp hot sauce or a sliced fresh chili.
Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
Make ahead: Store in a jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. The flavors intensify over time!
For a smoky twist, grill the pineapple before adding it to the sauce.
