Get ready to saddle up and indulge in some sweet and spicy treats with our 18 irresistible Spicy Cowboy Candy Recipes! These mouth-watering confections combine the classic flavors of American candy-making with a bold kick of heat. From the familiar comfort of cinnamon-spiced goodness to the unexpected zing of ghost pepper, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud.
Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to your snack routine or seeking the perfect sweet treat to spice up your holiday gatherings, these cowboy candies are sure to satisfy your cravings. So why wait? Let’s dive in and explore the wild west of flavors with our Spicy Cowboy Candy Recipes!
Spicy Jalapeño Cowboy Candy
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this bold and addictive cowboy candy recipe! This sweet and spicy treat is perfect for snacking on the go or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and sliced jalapeños.
5. Let mixture cool slightly before pouring onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Allow candy to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Cowboy Candy
Get ready to corral a sweet and tangy treat with this cowboy candy recipe! This classic Western delight is made with just a few ingredients, but packs a punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) beef or turkey jerky, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup (120g) brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the jerky pieces to the sauce and stir until coated.
4. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the candy reaches desired thickness.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey-Glazed Cowboy Candy
This addictive treat combines the richness of honey with the crunch of pecans and the chewiness of caramelized cowboys (dried fruit). Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, this sweet and sticky candy is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cranberries (cowboys)
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, honey, and brown sugar. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in water and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Add dried cranberries to the glaze and stir until well coated.
4. Spread the glazed cowboys onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the glazed cowboys.
6. Allow to cool and set before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Maple Syrup Cowboy Candy
Maple Syrup Cowboy Candy Recipe
This classic candy recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans and a hint of salt for a truly cowboy-approved treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine the corn syrup, sugar, and maple syrup in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in the chopped pecans.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let cool slightly.
7. Once set, break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic-Infused Cowboy Candy
Elevate your snacking game with this savory take on traditional cowboy candy. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pecans and caramel with the pungency of garlic, creating a flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, garlic, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Add pecan halves to the saucepan and stir until coated with the caramel mixture.
6. Spread pecans onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Cowboy Candy
A sweet and spicy treat that’s perfect for the modern cowboy (or cowgirl)! This recipe combines the richness of caramel with the smokiness of chipotles, creating a unique flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugars, water, and butter in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until caramel reaches desired color (amber).
4. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and chipotle peppers.
5. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. If using nuts, sprinkle over top immediately after pouring.
7. Allow candy to cool and set before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Get ready to ride off into the sunset with this sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for a cowboy (or cowgirl) on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple, brown sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in honey, vanilla extract, and salt until dissolved.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a silicone candy mold.
4. If using pecans, sprinkle on top of the pineapple mixture.
5. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Cut into desired shapes and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bourbon Cowboy Candy
This recipe combines the classic flavors of peanut butter cups and bourbon to create a unique and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon whiskey, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
5. Melt milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Cut the cooled peanut butter mixture into desired shapes. Dip each shape into melted milk chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Place coated candies on parchment paper-lined surface and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Cinnamon-Spiced Cowboy Candy
This classic cowboy candy recipe gets a warm and cozy twist with the addition of cinnamon, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a long day on the range.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) pecan halves
– 1/2 cup (100g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in pecan halves until they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until caramelized and fragrant, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cider Cowboy Candy
Apple Cider Cowboy Candy Recipe
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional cowboy candy, this recipe incorporates the flavors of apple cider and spices to create a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and apple cider in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Add chopped nuts and butter; stir until well combined.
6. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry-Barbecue Cowboy Candy
This addictive treat combines the richness of cherries with the bold flavors of barbecue sauce, all wrapped up in a crunchy candy coating. Perfect for snacking or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup maraschino cherries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup crushed pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine maraschino cherries, brown sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in barbecue sauce and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the cherry mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.
5. Melt the granulated sugar in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Dip the cooled cherry mixture into the melted sugar, coating completely. If desired, roll in crushed nuts immediately after dipping.
7. Let set at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Peach Cowboy Candy
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this sweet and tangy peach candy recipe that’s perfect for any cowboy (or cowgirl) looking for a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup of light corn syrup
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of peach preserves
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the peach preserves and vanilla extract.
5. Add the diced peaches to the saucepan and let them sit for about 30 seconds to allow the syrup to penetrate the fruit.
6. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out into a thin layer.
7. Allow the candy to cool and set at room temperature for at least 2 hours before cutting into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Hot Honey Cowboy Candy
Get ready to savor the sweet and spicy flavors of this unique cowboy candy. This recipe combines the perfect blend of hot honey, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans for a treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hot honey
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine hot honey, corn syrup, and sugar. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour in water while whisking constantly. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so be careful.
4. Add butter and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Pour the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Let cool and set at room temperature for 30-40 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Zest Cowboy Candy
This classic cowboy candy recipe gets a burst of citrus flavor from orange zest, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed citrus peels (orange, lemon, lime)
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugars dissolve.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat; stir in orange zest, water, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 1 hour or until caramelized and set.
7. Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Vanilla Bean Cowboy Candy
Get ready to rustle up a sweet treat that’s perfect for trail riding or just a little indulgence at home! This Vanilla Bean Cowboy Candy recipe combines the rich flavors of vanilla, caramel, and nuts in a simple yet satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and cook until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Let cool slightly.
5. Pour the caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle nuts evenly over the top.
6. Allow the candy to set at room temperature or speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
7. Break into pieces and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Cowboy Candy
Sweet and savory, these bacon-wrapped treats are a perfect snack or dessert. Crunchy bacon wraps around gooey marshmallow candies for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of cowboy candy (peanut butter and marshmallow treats)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– Brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into six equal pieces.
3. Wrap each piece of bacon around a cowboy candy, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped candies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with brown sugar (if using).
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ghost Pepper Cowboy Candy
Ghost peppers bring a smoldering heat to this classic candy recipe, perfect for thrill-seeking sweet tooths. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light corn syrup
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ghost pepper powder (Bhut Jolokia)
– 1 cup (250g) chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Combine corn syrup, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat; stir in butter, vanilla extract, and ghost pepper powder.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let cool slightly.
5. Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the top.
6. Refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
7. Cut into squares or bars.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Raspberry Coulis Cowboy Candy
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for ranch-handin’ on-the-go. This cowboy candy combines the natural sweetness of raspberries with a hint of spice, wrapped up in a crunchy and chewy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in chopped nuts.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Allow to cool and harden completely (about 2 hours). Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy cowboy candy recipes! From classic sweet and tangy flavors to bold and adventurous options like garlic-infused and ghost pepper, there’s something for every thrill-seeking foodie. Try Spicy Jalapeño Cowboy Candy, Honey-Glazed Cowboy Candy, or Maple Syrup Cowboy Candy for a sweet and spicy kick. Or go big with Smoky Chipotle Cowboy Candy or Bourbon Cowboy Candy for a grown-up twist. Whether you like it hot or not, these cowboy candies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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