In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, turmeric, and mustard seed. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Add the sliced chiles to the boiling syrup. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until they soften slightly, and the jalapeños turn a darker green.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a clean jar.
Pour the hot syrup over the chiles in the jar, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Seal the jar with a lid.
Let the jar cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating. The flavors will develop further over time!
Notes
*For less spicy Cowboy Candy, remove the seeds from the chiles.