Cranberry candied jalapenos have a way of stealing the show, and I’m so excited for you to try them! This recipe is my go-to for adding a burst of festive flavor to everything. I first tasted something similar at a holiday market, and the combination of tart cranberries with that sweet, spicy kick of candied jalapeños was absolutely divine. The aroma alone, a mix of simmering vinegar, sugar, and fresh peppers, is enough to make your mouth water. These sweet and spicy jalapenos with cranberries are incredibly versatile, transforming ordinary snacks into something truly special. Let’s get cooking and make some magic!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly versatile condiment! These aren’t just any peppers; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

• Festive Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tart makes them ideal for holidays and beyond.
• Incredibly Versatile: Use them as a topping, a spread, or an ingredient in countless dishes.
• Easy to Make: You can learn how to make cranberry candied jalapenos with simple pantry staples.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant red and green colors are stunning on any cheese board or appetizer platter.
• Customizable Heat: Control the spice level by adjusting the seeds you leave in the jalapeños.
• Quick Preparation: This easy cranberry candied jalapeno recipe comes together in under an hour.
• Long Shelf Life: Properly prepared, they last for months, making them a great make-ahead option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone raves about these spicy sweet cranberry jalapenos!

Ingredients for Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this amazing cranberry candied jalapenos recipe. These ingredients work together to create that signature sweet and spicy profile that makes this a standout condiment. Think of it like building the perfect cranberry jalapeno jam recipe, where each component plays a crucial role.

• 1 lb fresh jalapeños, sliced – You’ll want to slice these into rings, about 1/4 inch thick.
• 2 cups fresh cranberries – These add a wonderful tartness that balances the heat and sugar.
• 3 cups granulated sugar – This is key for creating that delightful candied texture and sweetness.
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar – The vinegar provides the necessary acidity to balance the sweetness and help preserve the peppers.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – For a savory depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp onion powder – Adds another layer of savory goodness.
• 1/2 tsp ground cayenne – This boosts the heat just a touch more, complementing the jalapeños.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Optional: citrus zest, ginger slices, or cinnamon sticks – For added complexity if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

Ready to create your own batch of delicious homemade cranberry candied jalapenos? This easy cranberry candied jalapeno recipe is straightforward and yields incredible results. Follow these steps for a perfect sweet and spicy treat!

Preparing the Jalapeños

First, thoroughly wash your fresh jalapeños. Slice them into uniform rings, about 1/4 inch thick. If you prefer a milder heat, carefully remove the seeds and membranes before slicing. I always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to protect my hands from the spicy oils!

Making the Sweet and Spicy Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine the 3 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp ground cayenne, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. You’ll notice a wonderful aroma starting to fill your kitchen.

Combining and Simmering

Once the syrup is boiling and the sugar has dissolved, stir in the 2 cups fresh cranberries. Let them simmer for about 5–7 minutes, or until they just begin to soften and pop. Then, add your prepared jalapeño slices to the hot syrup. Continue to simmer for another 4–5 minutes, just long enough for the jalapeños to slightly soften but still retain a pleasant bite.

Jarring and Preserving

Carefully use a slotted spoon to transfer the jalapeño slices and cranberries into clean jars. Ladle the hot syrup over the peppers and cranberries, making sure to fill the jars, leaving about 1/4-inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly. For immediate enjoyment, refrigerate them for at least two weeks to let the flavors meld. For longer storage, process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Learn more about safe canning food at home.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

Want to elevate your homemade cranberry candied jalapenos from good to absolutely spectacular? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips ensure your peppers are perfectly balanced, flavorful, and a joy to eat.

• Sterilize Your Jars: If you plan on canning, always sterilize your jars and lids thoroughly. This is crucial for safe, long-term storage of your homemade cranberry candied jalapenos.
• Patience for Flavor: Don’t rush the flavor development. Letting these sit for at least two weeks after jarring allows the sweet, spicy, and tart notes to meld beautifully, creating the best cranberry candied jalapenos.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use firm, fresh jalapeños and good quality apple cider vinegar. The better your base ingredients, the more delicious your final product will be.

What’s the secret to perfect cranberry candied jalapenos?

The real secret to perfect cranberry candied jalapenos lies in the balance of the syrup and the simmering time. You want the jalapeños to soften but retain a slight crispness, and the cranberries to just start popping. This ensures the best texture for your homemade cranberry candied jalapenos.

Can I make cranberry candied jalapenos ahead of time?

Absolutely! These are fantastic for making ahead. Once prepared and jarred, they can be refrigerated for up to two months. This makes them a perfect candidate for holiday meal prep, ensuring you have plenty of this spicy cranberry jalapeno appetizer ready to go.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cranberry candied jalapenos?

A common pitfall is overcooking the jalapeños, which can make them mushy. Simmer them only briefly. Also, be sure to wear gloves when handling the peppers to avoid irritating your skin. Finally, ensure your jars are properly sealed if canning to prevent spoilage.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

These little gems are incredibly versatile and can transform so many dishes! Their unique sweet and spicy kick makes them a fantastic addition to almost anything. They’re perfect for elevating a simple cheese board into a show-stopping spicy cranberry jalapeno appetizer.

• On Cheese Boards: Pile them high next to your favorite cheeses, crackers, and charcuterie. Their sweet heat cuts through the richness of cheese beautifully.
• On Sandwiches and Burgers: Add a spoonful to your turkey sandwiches, burgers, or pulled pork for an amazing sweet and spicy kick. Try them on these veggie burgers with avocado for an extra layer of flavor.
• As a Glaze: Use the leftover syrup (or blend some of the peppers and cranberries) as a glaze for chicken, pork, or salmon.

Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

When enjoying these delightful cranberry candied jalapenos, it’s helpful to know what you’re consuming. Remember, these are estimates, as the exact nutritional values for your homemade cranberry candied jalapenos can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

• Calories: Approximately 75
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 55mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

Properly storing your delicious homemade cranberry candied jalapenos is key to enjoying them for months to come. Once your cranberry jalapeno candied spread has cooled completely after jarring, transfer it to airtight containers. If you’ve refrigerated them, they’ll stay wonderfully fresh for up to 2 months. For longer storage, ensure your jars are properly sealed and processed for canning; these can last up to a year in a cool, dark pantry. While freezing isn’t typically recommended for the best texture, if you must, they can be frozen for about 3 months, though they may become softer upon thawing.

Reheating isn’t usually necessary for this condiment, as it’s often served at room temperature or chilled. However, if you’ve made a larger batch and want to ensure it’s at the perfect serving temperature, you can gently warm a portion. Place the desired amount in a small saucepan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can alter the texture of the peppers and cranberries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Candied Jalapenos

What are cranberry candied jalapenos?

Cranberry candied jalapenos are a delightful condiment that combines the sweet, spicy kick of candied jalapeños with the tartness of fresh cranberries. They offer a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and spicy, making them a versatile addition to many dishes. They’re often referred to as a relish or chutney.

Can I use dried cranberries for this recipe?

While you can technically use dried cranberries, I strongly recommend fresh ones for the best results. Dried cranberries won’t plump up and pop in the syrup the same way fresh ones do, and they can significantly alter the texture and moisture balance of the final product. Fresh cranberries are key to achieving the best cranberry candied jalapenos.

How long do homemade cranberry candied jalapenos last?

Properly prepared and stored, your homemade cranberry candied jalapenos have a great shelf life. Refrigerated, they typically last for up to 2 months. If you properly can them using a boiling water bath, they can be shelf-stable for up to a year. Always ensure jars are sealed correctly for the longest storage.

Variations of Cranberry Candied Jalapenos You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative with your cranberry candied jalapenos! There are so many ways to adapt this delicious condiment. Think of it as a base for even more exciting flavors and preparations. Here are a few ideas to explore:

• Smoky Chipotle Twist: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a few rehydrated chipotle peppers (pureed) to the syrup along with the cayenne for a smoky, deeper heat.
• Citrus Burst: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lime into the syrup. This brightens the flavor and complements the cranberries beautifully, creating a delightful candied jalapenos with cranberry sauce variation.
• Herbal Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs to the simmering syrup for an aromatic complexity.
• Sugar-Free Option: For a lower-sugar version, you can experiment with sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia, though you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking times.

Print