Looking for a cranberry sauce with a smoky, spicy twist? This chipotle cranberry sauce recipe brings together tangy cranberries and earthy chipotle peppers for a bold, flavorful side that’s anything but ordinary. It’s the perfect spicy cranberry sauce to liven up your holiday table — or to add a little heat to leftover turkey sandwiches the next day.
What Makes This Recipe Work
Cranberries and chipotle peppers are a surprisingly natural pairing. The cranberries bring their iconic tartness, while the chipotle peppers — with their smoky, earthy heat — add a savory, rustic depth. It’s a balance of contrasts: fiery yet fresh, sharp yet rich. The sweetness from sugar rounds it all out into something that feels both traditional and excitingly new.
When it comes to the chipotle, restraint is key. Stick to the amount listed in the recipe — it’s a flavor-balancing act. A little of that earthy adobo sauce goes a long way, and too much can easily overpower the cranberries’ brightness.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
This chipotle cranberry sauce can do so much more than sit beside your Thanksgiving turkey (though it’s incredible there). Its smoky-sweet complexity gives it the versatility of a gourmet condiment. Try it with:
- Roast Turkey or Chicken: A smoky upgrade to a holiday classic.
- Pork Tenderloin or Glazed Ham: The tang and sweetness pair beautifully with pork’s natural saltiness.
- Grilled Salmon: A spoonful on top brings smoky brightness to rich, fatty fish.
- Beef Brisket or Ribs: Use it as a smoky-sweet glaze or dipping sauce alongside barbecue.
- Cheese Boards: Serve with soft brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar — it’s a standout accompaniment.
- Leftover Sandwiches: Spread it on turkey or roast beef sandwiches with a little mayo or cream cheese for a gourmet touch.
Adaptations to Try
This sauce is already well-balanced, but it’s also flexible enough for a few fun twists depending on what you’re cooking.
- Add Citrus: A splash of orange juice or lime juice adds brightness and a touch of zest.
- Sweeten Differently: Try maple syrup, brown sugar, or honey instead of white sugar for richer flavor.
- Add Warm Spices: Cinnamon, allspice, or a pinch of cumin can deepen the sauce’s warmth.
- Make It Boozy: A splash of bourbon or red wine gives the sauce an extra layer of richness — perfect for holiday meals.
- Adjust the Texture: Keep it chunky for a rustic feel or blend it smooth for a polished presentation.
Bringing It All Together
Chipotle cranberry sauce is a flavorful twist on a seasonal favorite — one that bridges the gap between smoky summer cookouts and cozy winter feasts. Whether you serve it as a classic holiday side, a creative BBQ glaze, or a surprising cheese board addition, it’s sure to be a conversation starter.
So next time you’re craving something both familiar and bold, give this recipe a go. You might just find your new favorite holiday condiment.
Like This Recipe? You’ll Love These Too:
- Cranberry Jalapeño Jam: The bright bite from jalapeño works just as well with cranberry as chipotle.
- Spicily-Glazed Baked Gammon With Fall Sides: A full fall-ready meal with citrusy-sweet potatoes, green cabbage, and a delicious homemade cranberry sauce.
- Chipotle Honey Parsnips: Earthy-sweet and smoky give parsnips a whole new level of flavor.
Chipotle Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cranberries
- 2 cups dark sweet cherries can use frozen, pitted
- 3 clementine oranges
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon chipotle from chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
Instructions
- Place the cranberries and cherries in a slow cooker.
- Halve the oranges and squeeze the juice over the fruit in the slow cooker. Then remove the pulp from the orange peels and place in the slow cooker as well.
- Heat the water in a microwave to hot, then pour it, the sugar, and chopped chipotle pepper into the slow cooker. Stir the ingredients to fully combine.
- Turn the slow cooker to low, cover, and cook the mix for 4 hours.
- Remove from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature, then serve. Or chill the cranberry sauce in the refrigerator to allow the sauce to thicken prior to serving.