Sweet, fruity, and with a hint of heat — this jalapeño and blackberry slush drink is pure refreshment in a glass. The mix of tangy blackberries and mild chili warmth makes for a bold, vibrant flavor combo that works any time of year. It’s a fun, easy way to bring a little spice to your next get-together or to treat yourself to something a bit daring.
This is sure is refreshing in summer — but honestly, it’s just as tasty any time of year. This drink is all about that bold burst of fruitiness with a subtle peppery zip that keeps things interesting. It’s the perfect way to satisfy those sweet, fruity cravings with a little spicy surprise mixed in.
The heat here comes from fresh jalapeño peppers. Their low-to-medium spice adds a gentle warmth rather than an overwhelming burn, and it balances beautifully with the tangy sweetness of the blackberries. Because the pepper is blended into so many cooling ingredients, the result is mild — a pleasant tickle of heat that most everyone can enjoy.
If you like things on the spicier side, though, it’s easy to turn up the fire. Add another half or full jalapeño (seeds and all) to the mix for extra kick. Want something milder? Remove the seeds and inner membrane, or simply use less of the chili.
Recipe adaptations and twists
One of the best things about this slush recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to give it a seasonal flair or a boozy upgrade, there’s a variation that’ll fit the occasion:
- Make it cozy for fall or winter: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice. These warming spices complement the tart blackberry and turn the drink into a surprisingly comforting treat. Try rimming the glass with cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
- Use candied jalapeños (cowboy candy): If you have some cowboy candy on hand, swap them for the fresh jalapeño. They bring both sweetness and heat, giving this drink a totally unique twist that’s absolutely delicious. And, of course, you could make your own.
- Add a splash of spirit: Turn it into a spicy cocktail by blending in tequila, rum, or vodka. A squeeze of lime or orange juice makes the flavors pop.
- Go tropical: Blend in pineapple juice or coconut water for a lighter, fruitier version with a beachy feel.
- Make it frozen fun: Pour the mixture into popsicle molds instead of glasses. The result? Spicy-sweet blackberry ice pops that are perfect for hot days.
What to pair it with
This isn’t just a standalone drink — it’s also a great companion to foods that can handle (or complement) a little heat. Pair your jalapeño and blackberry slush with:
- Spicy tacos or fajitas — especially those with smoky or grilled meats like chicken, shrimp, or steak.
- BBQ favorites like pulled pork, ribs, or brisket. The sweet-tart fruit flavor cuts through the richness of the barbecue sauce.
- Cheese boards — creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese pair beautifully with the sweet heat combo.
- Three PepperScale recipe pairings to try:
- Chipotle Chicken Fajitas: These smoky, savory fajitas are a natural partner for the slush. The chipotle’s deep, earthy flavor contrasts beautifully with the bright, sweet-tart drink.
- Cherry Habanero BBQ Sauce: If you’re serving grilled chicken, ribs, or even a pulled pork sandwich, this BBQ sauce brings a fruity heat that mirrors the blackberry slush perfectly. Both feature that balance of sweetness and fire — one hot, one cold.
- Jalapeño Creamed Corn: Creamy, cheesy, and a little spicy, this comforting side dish matches the drink’s level of heat and adds richness to your meal. The slush acts as a refreshing counterpoint — like a sweet, spicy palate cleanser.
Quick tips
This drink is best served immediately. Once it starts melting, the texture and flavor fade fast — and refreezing dulls that bright fruitiness. Blend it, pour it, and enjoy it right away for the best experience.
If you’re a fan of fruity spice pairings, you’ll find this one’s a keeper. Whether it’s served poolside in summer or with cinnamon spice in fall, this jalapeño and blackberry slush drink proves once again that a little heat makes sweetness even better.
Like this recipe? You’ll love these too:
- Jalapeño Green Smoothie: Packed full of green goodness, like avocado, green apple, cucumber, and lime.
- Habanero Lemonade: A bold take on the summer classic drink, that’s perfect for cocktails, too.
- Jalapeño Mint Smoothie: The mint adds a tasty bright freshness, so yum.
Jalapeño and BlackBerry Slush Drink
Ingredients
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup boiling water
- 1 cup blackberries
- 2 cups ice
- 1 jalapeno pepper
- 1 lemon
Instructions
- Chop and deseed the jalapeno pepper. Add it to the blender along with the boiling water and sugar.
- Blend until the pepper is smoothed and the sugar has dissolved (you may still see little bits of green flesh, it’s okay!)
- Add the blackberries and ice then turn the blender to high for 1 minute.
- Pour the drinks and squeeze some lemon into it (stirring well) to adjust the taste.