06/17/2026
Pineapple Cowboy Candy (Water-Bath Canning Recipe)
Makes: About 4 half-pint (8 oz) jars
Ingredients
1 large pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
3 jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat if desired)
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced or grated
1½ cups apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 tablespoon red chili flakes
½ teaspoon salt
Equipment
4 half-pint canning jars with new lids and bands
Water-bath canner or large stockpot with rack
Jar lifter and canning funnel
Instructions
1. Prepare the jars
1. Wash jars, lids, and bands.
2. Keep jars hot until ready to fill.
3. Prepare a boiling water canner and bring water to a simmer.
2. Make the syrup
1. In a large saucepan, combine:
Apple cider vinegar
Sugar
Mustard seeds
Red chili flakes
Salt
Ginger
2. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Cook the pineapple
1. Add pineapple chunks and jalapeño slices.
2. Reduce to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is slightly tender but not mushy.
4. Fill the jars
1. Using a slotted spoon, pack pineapple and peppers into hot jars.
2. Ladle the hot syrup over the fruit, leaving ½-inch headspace.
3. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace if needed.
4. Wipe rims clean and apply lids and bands until fingertip tight.
5. Process
Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude according to standard canning guidelines if above 1,000 feet).
Turn off heat and let jars rest in the canner for 5 minutes.
Remove jars and cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
Storage
Check that lids have sealed before storing.
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Refrigerate after opening and use within 3–4 weeks.
Serving Ideas
Grilled chicken or pork
Steak
Tacos and burgers
Charcuterie boards
Cream cheese with crackers
Pulled pork sandwiches
Canning Safety Note
For shelf-stable water-bath canning, use 5% acidity apple cider vinegar and do not reduce the vinegar amount, as the acidity is important for safe preservation.