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+ servings
A glass jar filled with glossy, caramelized jalapeño slices in a thick syrup.
5 from 3 votes

Candied Jalapeños Recipe

Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
This Candied Jalapeños Recipe blends fresh jalapeños with apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic, and spices, creating a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Ideal for topping burgers, tacos, or serving as a savory-sweet appetizer.
9 Servings

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds fresh jalapeño peppers firm and ripe
  • 2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 6 cups granulated white sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • 3 teaspoons granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation of Jalapeños:

  1. Begin by wearing protective gloves to handle the jalapeños safely. Remove the stems by slicing a thin disc from the stem end of each pepper. Discard the stems. Slice the jalapeños into uniform rings approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch in thickness. Set aside.

Prepare the Syrup:

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, ground turmeric, celery seed, granulated garlic, and ground cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.

Simmer the Jalapeños:

  1. Carefully add the sliced jalapeños to the simmering syrup. Continue simmering for precisely 4 minutes. This process allows the jalapeños to absorb the flavors while maintaining their texture.

Fill the Jars:

  1. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeño rings into sterilized canning jars. Leave approximately 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Ensure the rings are evenly distributed but not overly packed.

Boil the Syrup:

  1. Increase the heat under the remaining syrup in the saucepan and bring it to a full, rolling boil. Allow the syrup to boil vigorously for 6 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavor.

Pour the Syrup:

  1. Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot syrup over the jalapeños in the jars, covering them completely. Insert a chopstick or a sterilized knife along the sides of the jar to release any air pockets. Adjust the syrup level if necessary to maintain the 1/4 inch headspace.

Seal the Jars:

  1. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a proper seal. Place sterilized lids on each jar and screw the bands on to fingertip tightness.

Process the Jars (Optional for Long-Term Storage):

  1. If preserving for extended storage, place the sealed jars in a boiling water bath canner. Ensure the jars are covered with at least 2 inches of water. Process half-pint jars for 10 minutes or pint jars for 15 minutes. After processing, carefully remove the jars and allow them to cool undisturbed for 24 hours on a clean towel or rack.

Cool, Label, and Store:

  1. Once fully cooled, label each jar with the date. Store in a cool, dark place. For the best flavor, allow the jalapeños to mellow for at least 2 weeks before consuming.

Notes

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients used are verified gluten-free. To ensure safety:
  • Confirm that the apple cider vinegar and spices (especially turmeric and garlic) are processed in gluten-free facilities without cross-contamination.
  • Use certified gluten-free canning lids and sterilization procedures if cross-contact is a concern.
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