Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large ripe pineapple, peeled and cored, cut into 1/4-inch thick rings or wedges
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple: Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into uniform 1/4-inch thick rings or wedges. Set aside on a clean surface.
- Make the syrup: In a large, non-reactive pot (such as stainless steel), combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, grated ginger, turmeric powder, red pepper flakes, ground cumin, and sea salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring continuously until all the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Simmer the pineapple: Reduce the heat to low. Carefully add the prepared pineapple slices to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the flavorful syrup. Simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple appears translucent and has absorbed much of the syrup's vibrant flavor and color.
- Prepare for baking: Carefully remove the pineapple slices from the hot syrup using tongs or a slotted spoon. Arrange them in a single layer on wire racks that have been placed over baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Reserve the remaining syrup – it's a delicious bonus for other culinary uses!
- Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Bake the pineapple slices for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are slightly tacky to the touch and have developed a chewy, candied texture. For even drying, gently flip them over once halfway through the baking process.
- Cool and store: Remove the candied pineapple from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the wire racks. They will firm up further as they cool. Once fully cooled, store the Pineapple Cowboy Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for an extended shelf life.
Notes
For an extra spicy kick, consider adding an additional pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the syrup mixture before simmering. The leftover syrup is an incredible mixer for mocktails, a fantastic glaze for roasted turkey or chicken, or a delightful topping for yogurt and ice cream. Ensure your pineapple slices are cut uniformly in thickness to promote even cooking and candy consistency. These homemade treats also make for a unique and thoughtful edible gift!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Snack
- Method: Simmer & Bake
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2-3 slices)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg