Johnny Jalapeno's Cowboy Candy

Place all ingredients into a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until boiling.

Reduce temperature to low and simmer 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until liquid is reduced by about half.

Let cool, stirring occasionally (it will thicken more as it cools) You can serve it warm or transfer to a jar and store in refrigerator. Serve with crackers spread with cream cheese and the candy.

OPTIONAL JELLY RECIPE: Do not reduce the temperature or simmer, but instead, stir in gelatine to dissolve. Return to a full rolling boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and quickly skim off foam if any, with a metal spoon.

TO JAR FOR LONG STORAGE OR GIFTS: Carefully pour hot candy/jelly into hot, sterilized half-pint jars, leaving a 1/4" headspace. Wipe jar rims and adjust the lids.

Process in a boiling water canner for exactly 5 minutes. Remove jars and cool on a wire rack till set (2 to 3 days).