Cowboy Candy: A Sweet Treat for the Modern-Day Cowboy (and Everyone Else!)
Cowboy Candy is a delicious and simple candy that has been enjoyed for generations. It's essentially a candied pecan, but the combination of brown sugar, butter, and spices makes it a truly unique and satisfying treat. This recipe is perfect for canning, allowing you to enjoy this sweet treat all year long.
Why Can Cowboy Candy?
- Long shelf life: Canned Cowboy Candy can last for months, making it perfect for stocking up on sweet treats.
- Convenient: Having jars of Cowboy Candy ready to go is perfect for picnics, parties, or simply snacking.
- Homemade gift: Homemade Cowboy Candy makes a wonderful and thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecans (or your favorite nut)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Canning jars and lids
- Jar lifter
- Water bath canner
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pecans
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, until fragrant. This will enhance their flavor.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
- Combine brown sugar, butter, water, salt, and spices (if using) in the saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The syrup should thicken slightly.
Step 3: Candy the Pecans
- Add the toasted pecans to the syrup. Stir to coat them completely.
- Increase heat to medium and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The pecans should be coated in a thick, sticky syrup.
Step 4: Can the Cowboy Candy
- Prepare the canning jars: Wash them thoroughly and sterilize them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Fill the jars: Carefully ladle the hot pecan mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims: Ensure the rims of the jars are clean and free of any syrup.
- Add the lids: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
Step 5: Process in a Water Bath
- Fill a large pot with water. The water level should be at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars in the canner.
- Bring the water to a boil. Gently lower the jars into the boiling water using a jar lifter.
- Process for 10 minutes. This ensures proper sealing and helps prevent spoilage.
- Remove the jars: Carefully lift the jars out of the water bath and place them on a towel-lined counter to cool completely.
Step 6: Check the Seals
- After the jars cool completely, press down on the center of the lid. If it pops back up, it has not sealed properly. You can reprocess these jars in a water bath or refrigerate them and eat them within a few weeks.
- If the lid stays down, your Cowboy Candy is ready to enjoy!
Enjoy Your Cowboy Candy!
Store your canned Cowboy Candy in a cool, dark place. They will last for months, making them the perfect treat to enjoy any time of year.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pecans. They should be coated in a thick syrup, but not burnt.
- If you prefer a softer candy, cook for a shorter amount of time. If you prefer a harder candy, cook for a longer amount of time.
- For a variation, try adding different spices, like chili powder or cayenne pepper for a bit of a kick.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for larger batches.
Happy Canning!
